He who walks righteously and speaks uprightly,The first line is straightforward: It requests that we conduct ourselves, both in action and in speech, according to God's commandments.
who despises the gain of oppressions,
who shakes his hands, lest they hold a bribe,
who stops his ears from hearing of bloodshed
and shuts his eyes from looking on evil,
he will dwell on the heights;
his place of defense will be the fortresses of rocks;
his bread will be given him; his water will be sure.
The next two lines caution against attempting to accumulate earthly pleasures and treasures through means that violate the first line. Simply put, earthly gains mean nothing to God, and worse, earthly gains greatly anger God if they are acquired through sinful ways.
The fourth and fifth lines demand that, in addition to obeying God, we also must avoid condoning when others disobey God. That is, sin is toxic, whether conducted by us or others. Avoid all sources of sin.
The final three lines describe the rewards that accrue to those who obey God.
Isaiah 33:15-16 not only provides great advice, but it also serves as an effective prayer. Try reciting it a few times throughout this day.
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