Isaiah 52:7
“How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth!”
This verse celebrates the messenger who brings the good news of deliverance, peace, and salvation. In Isaiah’s time, this referred to the herald who brought the joyous announcement to Jerusalem that their captivity was over and their God reigned supreme.
Imagine the scene: a weary traveler scaling the mountains, eagerly proclaiming the end of suffering and the beginning of restoration. It was not the physical feet of the messenger that were beautiful but the life-changing message they carried.
The Apostle Paul draws from Isaiah 52:7 in Romans 10:15, where he writes:
“And how shall they preach, except they be sent? as it is written, How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things!”
Paul uses this Old Testament reference to highlight the importance of spreading the Gospel: the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Just as Isaiah’s messenger brought good news to a captive people, Gospel messengers today bring the ultimate good news of salvation through Jesus Christ.
Paul’s words remind us that sharing the Gospel is not just a duty; it is a privilege. Every time we speak of Christ, we have the opportunity to bring peace, joy, and eternal hope to those around us.
Are Our Feet Beautiful?
This leads us to a convicting question: Are our feet known for bringing beauty and good news, or do they bring sorrow, pain, or destruction?
The Bible contrasts the beauty of feet that bring good news with the harm caused by those who bring trouble. Proverbs 6:18 warns about feet that run swiftly to mischief:
“An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief,”
Feet can either carry the Gospel of peace or rush toward sin and harm. Instead of delivering messages of hope, we might find ourselves spreading gossip, discouragement, or negativity.
Consider the impact your words and actions have on those around you. Do your “feet” (the direction of your life and influence) leave others rejoicing in God’s goodness, or do they leave a trail of pain and sorrow?
