Isaiah 14:1 – Isaiah 28:29
Overview
Ancient Isaiah Scroll
There is a lot happening in Day 50 of the Bible in 90 Days. We are in the midst of the book of Isaiah and the prophet is speaking for the Lord. Our reading includes prophesy against many people and places including the Phillistines, Moab, Damascus, Cush, Egypt, Edom, and Arabia. God’s wrath and justice will use these people groups to accomplish his ultimate judgment which is to scatter his people because of their disobedience. It is also to exact his revenge against the nations that turned against His people. All of these actions will bring us to the exile where God’s remnant will remain for 70 years. Towns, villages and many people will be laid to waist and times will be extremely difficult for those who remain. Isaiah speaks of the devastation that will take place during this time. When this time has passed, his prophecy also includes a message of deliverance for Israel.
Scripture Isaiah 14:1 – 2
1 The LORD will have compassion on Jacob; once again he will choose Israel and will settle them in their own land. Foreigners will join them and unite with the descendants of Jacob. 2 Nations will take them and bring them to their own place. And Israel will take possession of the nations and make them male and female servants in the LORD’s land. They will make captives of their captors and rule over their oppressors.
Observation
God’s message to His people through the prophet Isaiah clearly tells of the pending disaster that will take place. The people have been put on notice from God that their sin and utter disregard for God and His laws has gone too far. God has warned His people over and over to repent, purify and obey Him. The people of God have turned their backs on God. The people will be taken from their land and their identity as God’s people will be stripped from them and God will turn his back on his people for 70 years. Many will die and this is all because of the disobedience of God’s people. After that time, God will again rise up for his people and those who remain will be delivered back into their land to worship and serve the Lord. Not only will Israelites turn to God but “foreigners” will also look to God and worship Him. They will regain their identity as Israel and will make those who enslaved and oppressed them captives and rule over them!
Application
Just as parents discipline their children, God does the same. For each of us, God will use different circumstances to cause us to turn back to Him. For some this process is longer than others. Think of your life and what it took for God to get your attention? Sometimes dramatic things happen because that is what it takes for us to find God. Some may take a whisper while others need a bigger voice. Through it all, God’s message is this. He loves us and wants us to love him. He will have compassion on us if we call out to Him.
Prayer
Lord, as much as I fail you, I am grateful for your compassion and unconditional love for me. Help me to listen to the whispers when you are trying to get my attention.
