The theme of a remnant of the faithful surviving adversity is one that occurs many times in the Bible. For example, Noah's family survives the flood, Joseph's family survive the famine, seven thousand Israelites survive Elijah's cull of Baal worshippers, and a straggling remnant return from Babylon after the exile.¹ Judah itself is a remnant of Israel, being just two of the original twelve tribes. The verse quoted here refers to the moment when King Ahaz of Judah sides with the Assyrians rather than trusting God, and Isaiah foretells that only a remnant of them will return from the battle.

Using the nation of Israel as a metaphor for an individual the idea of a remnant maps to that part of the consciousness or spirit that holds to the truth no matter what influences come to bear. Each one of us is tempted, drawn away from God's path, but few fall so completely as to be lost. This is because we have this core of truth within us, the still, small voice of God that acts as our guidance system, allowing us to return to the path. But we must listen, and too often the noise of the world and the strength of temptation, prevent this listening. There is no story of destruction or fall in the Bible where there is no redeemed remnant. Humans are ultimately redeemable no matter what they may have done. This message is expounded throughout scripture. Take heart.

¹ A glossary of verses that touch on this theme can be found in 69 Bible Verses about Remnant.