Even though the Israelites spent many years in captivity—and even though that captivity was a result of their own poor choices—the Lord wanted them to look to the future with hope. What do you find in Isaiah’s message that gives you hope? A chart like this one might help you study:

See also Mosiah 12:20–24; 15:13–18; 3 Nephi 20:29–46; Doctrine and Covenants 113:7–10; Russell M. Nelson, “Embrace the Future with Faith,” Ensign or Liahona, Nov. 2020, 73–76.

Few chapters in scripture describe Jesus Christ’s redemptive mission more beautifully than Isaiah 53. Consider activities like these to better understand and apply these powerful teachings:

• Ponder or discuss how stories and movies often depict heroes who rescue people. Contrast those depictions with the descriptions of the Savior in Isaiah 53.

• After reading each verse, pause to contemplate what the Savior suffered—the “griefs,” “sorrows,” and “transgressions” He bore—for all people and specifically for you. You might replace words like “we” and “our” with “I” and “my” as you read. What feelings or thoughts do these verses inspire in you?

• Consider watching the video “My Kingdom Is Not of This World” (Gospel Library), and ponder how the prophecies in Isaiah 53 were fulfilled. What are some of the griefs and sorrows the Savior carries for you?

• • Find pictures of the events surrounding the Atonement of Jesus Christ (see Gospel Art Book, nos. 56–60). You could then find phrases in Isaiah 53 that describe the events in the pictures. What do these teachings inspire you to do?

  See also “Behold the Great Redeemer Die,” Hymns, no. 191.

We all have times when we feel distant from the Lord because of our sins or weaknesses. Some have even given up hope that He will ever forgive them. Isaiah 54 and 57 are great chapters to read for reassurance and encouragement during such times. Particularly in Isaiah 54:4–10; 57:15–19, what words teach you how the Savior feels about you? What difference does it make in your life to know these things about Him?

President Dieter F. Uchtdorf taught:

“It matters not how completely ruined our lives may seem. It matters not how scarlet our sins, how deep our bitterness, how lonely, abandoned, or broken our hearts may be. Even those who are without hope, who live in despair, who have betrayed trust, surrendered their integrity, or turned away from God can be rebuilt. …

“The joyous news of the gospel is this: because of the eternal plan of happiness provided by our loving Heavenly Father and through the infinite sacrifice of Jesus the Christ, we can not only be redeemed from our fallen state and RESTORE TO PURITY, but we can also transcend mortal imagination and become heirs of eternal life and partakers of God’s indescribable glory” (“He Will Place You on His Shoulders and Carry You Home,” Ensign or Liahona, May 2016, 102).

See also Patrick Kearon, “God’s Intent Is to Bring You Home,” Liahona, May 2024, 87–89.

For generations, Israel had been identified as God’s covenant people. However, God’s plan has always included more than just one nation, for “every one that thirsteth” is invited to “come … to the waters” (Isaiah 55:1). Keep this in mind as you read Isaiah 55 and 56, and ponder what it means to be God’s people. What is God’s message to those who feel “utterly separated” from Him? (Isaiah 56:3). Consider marking verses that describe attitudes and actions of those who “take hold of my covenant” (see Isaiah 56:4–7).

Russell M. Nelson said in his talk “Think Celestial!” “Your choices will determine where you will live throughout eternity, the kind of body with which you will be resurrected, and those with whom you will live forever.”

• To teach your children about Isaiah 55:6, you could hide a picture of Jesus somewhere in the room. You could invite your children to find the picture and name one way they can “seek … the Lord while he may be found.” A song like “Seek the Lord Early” (Children’s Songbook, 108) could give them ideas. Then you could let one of the children hide the picture and repeat the activity.