Salvation: A Study in IsaiahSample

What does it say?

Isaiah described a coming day of judgment when Judah’s defenses would fail against a formidable enemy, and God’s people would refuse to look to Him for help.

What does it mean?

Because of persistent disobedience, Judah would face a day of judgment. The imminent assault should have led to Judah’s repentance. Instead, the people would survey their situation with pride and self-sufficiency and repair the weakness in their walls. The prophet wept as he saw that their leaders would flee. God called the people to have sorrow for their sins, but they would choose to arrogantly satisfy their carnal desires as they saw their end was near. They would show complete disregard for God. There would be no permanent security in self-sufficiency or national leadership.

How should I respond?

The Lord is our source of security in good times and bad. Looking to Him as Creator and Sustainer offers security through every threat. What keeps you from turning to God and trusting Him – pride, arrogance, or self-sufficiency? Humbling yourself before the Lord means recognizing that your ability to handle life has to come from Him. Turning to God usually involves confession of rebellion or disobedience and results in the restoration of intimate fellowship with Him. Trusting in His power and submitting to His authority will result in God-sufficiency regardless of what happens around you.