Definition: But with righteousness shall he judge the poor, and reprove with equity for the meek of the earth: and he shall smite the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this beautiful verse from Isaiah 11:4. It’s a really powerful message about God’s justice and care for His people. Here's a simplified explanation: The Basic Idea: This verse describes a future time when God will actively punish the wicked and protect the righteous. It’s not just about punishment; it’s about justice and divine intervention . Let’s look at each part piece by piece: "But with righteousness shall he judge the poor..." – This means God will be fair and impartial in dealing with those who are struggling, oppressed, or lacking. He'll use his judgment to help them. Think of it like a shepherd protecting his flock. "...and reprove with equity for the meek of the earth:" - "Reprove" means to correct someone. But “equity” means fairness and justice. God will gently and fairly correct those who are gentle and humble – those who don’t fight or resist. "...and he shall smite the earth with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked." – This is the most dramatic part. "The rod of his mouth" : This refers to God's words – His truth, His commands, and His teachings. These are powerful tools that He uses to correct and discipline. “With the breath of his lips” : This symbolizes God’s loving and gentle influence, often through persuasion and encouragement. "Shall he slay the wicked" : This means God will actively eliminate or destroy those who are evil and harmful to others. He won't just passively let them continue; he will decisively take action against them. Overall Meaning: Isaiah 11:4 paints a picture of a future time when God’s justice prevails. He doesn’t simply tolerate wrongdoing but actively intervenes to punish it, protect the vulnerable, and ultimately, create a more just and peaceful world. It's about divine righteousness working through His word and power. Why is this important? This verse speaks to our hope for a better future where God’s love and justice will triumph over evil and wickedness. It’s a reminder that God cares deeply about us and will not allow injustice to flourish. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these concepts in more detail? Connect this verse to a specific story or example in the Bible?