The Isaiah 32 Man

Righteous, manly leadership is a genuine blessing to others. This fact is beautifully illustrated in Isaiah 32:2: “And a man shall be as an hiding place from the wind, and a covert from the tempest; as rivers of water in a dry place, as the shadow of a great rock in a weary land.”

When leadership is lacking, family and society fracture (e.g. Judges 17:6; 18:1; 19:1; 21:25). But when men fulfill their responsibilities, society enjoys stability and safety.

The language of Isaiah 32:2 describes a man serving as protector. The poor, needy and distressed can rely on him as a place of protection from wind and storm. A godly man defends them from those who would exploit or oppress them. He is their champion and shield.

Isaiah 32:2 also describes a man as provider. He cools, nourishes and refreshes those he serves like an essential source of fresh water. As King David said in his last words, righteous government is a blessing to the governed like “the tender grass springing out of the earth by clear shining after rain” (2 Samuel 23:3-4). The godly man revives and rejuvenates others as they take shelter in his shadow, seeking refuge from the scorching sun in a weary land.

Jesus Christ epitomizes all these qualities. He protects from dangers and evils, and amply supplies all our needs (Psalm 23). He personally bore the buffeting of the wind and storm to shield us from it (Isaiah 53:4-6). He offers living water (John 4:14). He is the Rock under whom we can take refuge (1 Corinthians 10:4). He pays particular heed to the poorest and neediest (e.g. Matthew 9:36).

Soon, this mighty Ruler, the King of kings, will return (Isaiah 32:1), and all nations will enjoy the blessings of His perfect leadership! We need not wait, however, to possess those beautiful effects of righteous leadership. In fact, every man should follow Christ’s example today.