Isaiah 59:7

Their feet run to evil, and they make haste to shed innocent blood: their thoughts are thoughts of iniquity; wasting and destruction are in their paths.

Isaiah 59:7 (KJV)

Context

This verse belongs to a larger passage in Isaiah 59 where the prophet confronts the people of Israel about their sins, especially social injustice and violence. Their wrongdoing has separated them from God, and their hands are defiled with blood (Isaiah 59:3). The verse describes a society that has turned away from God’s commandments and embraced wickedness.

Meaning

“Their feet run to evil” portrays eagerness and haste in pursuing sinful activities—a deliberate, intentional chase after wickedness rather than passive drift. “They make haste to shed innocent blood” condemns unjust killing, a grave offense that reveals the severity of violence against the vulnerable. “Their thoughts are thoughts of iniquity” shows that sin is not only outward but also inward; the mind itself is corrupted, preoccupied with evil. “Wasting and destruction are in their paths” points to the consequences: such pursuits bring ruin to individuals and communities alike. The repetition of motion words emphasizes that wickedness is not accidental but chosen with determination.

Biblical connections

Paul quotes this verse in Romans 3:15 to demonstrate that both Jews and Gentiles are under sin, showing the universal need for salvation through Jesus Christ. The broader chapter of Isaiah 59 ultimately points to God’s intervention: He sees the lack of justice and comes to bring redemption (Isaiah 59:15-20).

Application

This verse is a sobering reminder of the depth of human sinfulness and the need for repentance. It calls believers to examine their own hearts and actions, ensuring they do not harbor thoughts of iniquity or walk in paths of destruction. Instead, they are to pursue righteousness and peace, trusting in God’s grace to transform their lives. The verse also challenges us to consider how our habits and reflexes—the things we run toward—reveal the true condition of our hearts.

Reflection

Isaiah 59 emphasizes the separation between humanity and God due to sin, but it also offers hope for redemption through sincere repentance and God’s intervention. As we consider this verse, we are invited to turn from evil and embrace the righteousness that God provides.