But Zion said, The LORD hath {t} forsaken me, and my Lord hath forgotten me.

(t) He objects what the faithful might say in their long affliction and answers to comfort them with a most proper comparison and full of consolation.

Wesley's Notes

49:14 But - This is an objection. How can these things be true, when the condition of God's church is now so desperate?

Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary

14. Zion-the literal Israel's complaint, as if God had forsaken her in the Babylonian captivity; also in their dispersion previous to their future restoration; thereby God's mercy shall be called forth (Isa 63:15-19; Ps 77:9, 10; 102:17).

Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary

49:13-17 Let there be universal joy, for God will have mercy upon the afflicted, because of his compassion; upon his afflicted, because of his covenant. We have no more reason to question his promise and grace, than we have to question his providence and justice. Be assured that God has a tender affection for his church and people; he would not have them to be discouraged. Some mothers do neglect their children; but God's compassions to his people, infinitely exceed those of the tenderest parents toward their children. His setting them as a mark on his hand, or a seal upon his arm, denotes his being ever mindful of them. As far as we have scriptural evidence that we belong to his ransomed flock, we may be sure that he will never forsake us. Let us then give diligence to make our calling and election sure, and rejoice in the hope and glory of God.