Matthew Henry’s Modern English CommentaryIsaiah 12

A Song of PraiseThis chapter is a hymn of praise for the people of God. It is meant for the church, both in the time of the Jews and in the days when the Messiah’s kingdom is set up. When God does wonderful things for His people, they will unite and praise Him with one heart. This song reminds us that when God saves and blesses us, we should respond with thankfulness and joy.v. 1: Believers are told to thank God when His anger is turned away and He comforts them. Even if God was angry before, His anger does not last forever. Through Jesus, God’s anger is removed. When God forgives and comforts us, we have a good reason to praise Him. O Lord, I will praise you; though you were angry with me, your anger is turned away, and you comfort me .

v. 2: God’s people celebrate that He is their salvation. They trust in Him and are not afraid. God gives them strength and fills their hearts with songs of joy. He is always faithful and never changes. God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid: for the Lord

v. 3: Because God is their salvation, believers can draw joy and comfort from Him, like drawing water from a well. God’s promises and love are like a fountain that never runs dry. People can always come to Him for blessing and refreshment. Therefore with joy shall you draw water out of the wells of salvation ; see also Psalm 87:7; Deuteronomy 26:11 ).

A Song of PraiseThis is the second part of the song of praise. Here, believers encourage each other to praise God and to share His greatness with others. They invite everyone to join in celebrating what God has done for His people.v. 4: The people who live in Zion and Jerusalem are called to praise God. These are the ones God especially protected from Sennacherib’s attack. Those who have received God’s blessings should be the first to praise Him. The church today is like Zion, and Christ is its King. Even the weaker members are encouraged to be strong in the Lord and praise Him (Sing unto the Lord

v. 5: They are told how to praise God. First, by prayer—calling on His name to thank Him and ask for more mercy. Second, by telling others about God’s mighty works and His plans for salvation. This is done through preaching and teaching so that more people learn about God’s love. Third, by joyful celebration—shouting and singing praises like people do when they win a victory or crown a king. Praise is both a thankful prayer and a joyful public announcement (Call upon his name, declare his doings among the people, make mention that his name is exalted,.

v. 6: The reason to praise God is that He has made Himself glorious and lifted up His people. He has done wonderful things for them and remains great in their midst. God is called the Holy One of Israel because He is perfectly good and holy. It is a great honor and joy for Israel to have such a great and holy God living among them (Sing unto the Lord