“Comfort Ye My People”
Come, Follow Me Study Guide | September 28–October 4
Reading: Isaiah 40–49
A captive nation might wonder whether the Lord still remembered His promises after Jerusalem and its temple fell. Isaiah answers with the Lord’s declaration: “I have graven thee upon the palms of my hands.”
As we read, we can watch how that promise shapes His call to return, trust Him, and bear witness of Him.
Click here for a helpful activity packet the whole family can enjoy!
Setting the Stage for Your Come, Follow Me Study
This section of the study guide aims to provide a deeper understanding of the circumstances surrounding the revelation or scripture being studied. By exploring the events, challenges, and background of the time, this section helps readers appreciate the significance of the teachings and how they apply to our lives today.
Jerusalem and its temple still stood when Isaiah warned Judah about the consequences of its sins. The words in Isaiah 40–49 looked ahead to a generation that would see the city destroyed and live in captivity under Babylon.
Exile raised a painful question for the Jews: Did their captivity mean the Lord had given up on His covenant with them? The opening call to “comfort” addressed a people who had lost their home and faced an uncertain return.
Babylon held political power, while the surrounding nations worshipped gods represented by idols. Against that backdrop, the Lord repeatedly identified Himself as the Creator of heaven and earth and challenged the claims of false gods.
The word “servant” carries several meanings across these chapters. Some passages concern Israel, others describe the Persian king Cyrus, and the servant’s mission of bringing light and freeing captives points ultimately to Jesus Christ.
Cyrus allowed the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple after their exile. Centuries later, Nephi drew on Isaiah 48–49 to teach his brothers about the Redeemer and the Lord’s covenant with Israel.
Find more helpful background and other information here.
Come, Follow Me Study Resources
This section provides additional talks and insights to deepen your study and strengthen your understanding of gospel principles. Explore these messages to gain fresh perspectives and apply what you learn in your daily life.
The Refiner’s Fire | ChurchofJesusChrist.org
“He Is Risen with Healing in His Wings: We Can Be More Than Conquerors,” by Patrick Kearon
“Wings as Eagles,” from New Era
“Preparing for the Lord’s Return,” by D. Todd Christofferson
“Finding Relief in Our Covenant Relationship with God,” by Kristin M. Yee
Come, Follow Me Podcasts
These podcasts provide valuable insights, personal stories, and thoughtful perspectives that align with this week’s Come, Follow Me study guide. Tune in to explore new ideas and deepen your understanding of the principles being taught.
- Grounded – Isaiah 40–49 | Barbara Morgan Gardner & Scharman Grimmer | Sept. 28-Oct. 4
- Scripture Explorers – Symbols of Christ in Isaiah
- Unshaken – God Doesn’t Say “I Told You So”: The Comfort of Isaiah 40
Questions for Personal Reflection
These thoughtful prompts are designed to help you connect the scriptures and their principles to your own life, encouraging personal insights and spiritual growth. Take time to reflect, journal, or discuss these questions as part of your study.
- Which promise in Isaiah 40–49 speaks most directly to something you face right now?
- Where have you seen the Lord support you as you serve Him?
- How does the Lord’s promise in Isaiah 49:14–16 change what you tell yourself when you feel forgotten?
Living the Principle: “Comfort Ye My People”
These suggestions are designed to inspire action and help you live the teachings in meaningful, personal ways. By embracing these ideas, you can deepen your discipleship and bring the light of the gospel into your home, relationships, and community.
- Choose one promise from Isaiah 40–49 and write it where you will see it this week.
- Tell someone about a specific time when the Lord helped you.
- When a task or hardship leaves you discouraged, read Isaiah 41:10 and name one step you will take with the Lord’s help.
Shareable Quote for Come, Follow Me Inspiration
This section of the study guide features an uplifting quote from Church leaders, scriptures, or this week’s Come, Follow Me lesson—perfect for sharing with family and friends, or on social media. These messages are designed to spark meaningful conversations and keep the truths you learn at the forefront of your week.
How has this week’s study guide inspired or strengthened you? Your reflections could uplift someone else and spark a meaningful conversation in our community. Share your thoughts in the comments below—let’s learn and grow together!
Holly Wallace is a writer and storyteller drawn to meaningful questions and overlooked details. Her work explores Latter-day Saint life and culture through faithful inquiry, inviting readers to pause, consider, and engage more deeply with what matters most.
