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I. THE BLIGHT OF SIN. It is contrasted here with the beauty of holiness; and this contrast makes the deep gloom more apparent than if it were viewed by itself.

II. THE DARK OUTLOOK which Isaiah beheld. There is gloom first, and then gladness — confusion first, then comfort — darkness first, then light. Sin brings suffering and sorrow, either in this world or in the world to come.

III. THE BLESSING PROMISED. In proportion as the Church prays for, and expects, and receives the more abundant outpouring of the Spirit, the work of the world's conversion will proceed apace. We speak of a Pentecostal effusion; but the Church prays and waits for a yet more abundant outpouring: and, when it comes, the glory of the latter day will be fully realised.

IV. THE BRIGHT FUTURE. As the result of the pouring out of the Spirit, "the wilderness shall become a fruitful field." It has been said that this part of the prophecy is "luminous, rather than lucid; full of suffused, rather than distinct meanings." This much, however, is clear, that the good fruits of the Spirit's outpouring will be both material and moral.

(P. Mearns.)

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KJV: Upon the land of my people shall come up thorns and briers; yea, upon all the houses of joy in the joyous city:

WEB: Thorns and briars will come up on my people's land; yes, on all the houses of joy in the joyous city.