“…that they may see, and know, and consider, and understand together, that the hand of the LORD hath done this, and the Holy One of Israel hath created it” (Isaiah 41:20).

The comfort theme of Isaiah 40:1 continues into chapter 41. We are cautioned by the help of those who were encouraged by the effect upon the nations of the rise of the Persian power led by Cyrus (the righteous man or servant of God in 41:2). They worked together to build their own gods in celebration - “They helped every one his neighbour; and every one said to his brother, Be of good courage” (Isaiah 41:6).

It is easy to be zealously affected and deceived by something that appears to be noteworthy. Be careful who you allow to influence your life. Be careful who you give your ear to. There are those who will appear to be your friend for the purpose of using you for their own ends or influencing you down a different path - the path of false teaching, improper associations, their idea of what you need in your life instead of what God says you need. There are whisperers who will endeavor to separate you from those that God has placed in your life to love you and lead you - “They zealously affect you, but not well; yea, they would exclude you (cut you off from those pointing you to Jesus) that ye might affect them (that they might point you to themselves)”(Galatians 4:17).