Lord (40:5, 8). One should not trust other people or put any hope in them, for God’s promises are man’s only solid and a sure source of strength (55:10–11). The contrast is clear; flowers “fall,” but God’s word “will stand.” What he promises will happen. 40:9–11 Now at the climax of this introductory announcement of salvation comes God’s sure words describing what will stand forever. If 40:1–8 can be understood as comforting words concerning God’s glorious appearing to the people of Jerusalem (40:1),