THOUGHTS ON ISAIAH CHAPTER 16
Theme:
The Pride and Arrogance of Moab about their Wealth that can be taken Away in a Single Night.
WHO IS MOAB?
Moab is Lot’s son whom he got through incest with his first daughter in the aftermath of Sodom and Gomorrah destruction.
Verse 6 says, “We have heard of the pride of Moab; he is very proud: even of his naughtiness and his pride and his wrath: but his lies shall not be so.”
Proverbs 16:18 states; “Pride goes before destruction and a haughty spirit before a fall.”
Here in verse 6, it is pointed out that “Moab is very proud”. This led to their destruction.
This chapter finds Moabites Refugees in Sela. They asked Judah for shelter. Isaiah points to the pride and arrogance of Moab about their wealth that can be taken away in a Single night. He calls everyone to mourn with him for the loss of the grape harvest and its products in Moab.
He advises them to be kind to the seed of Israel. Those that expect to find favor when in trouble themselves must show favor to those in trouble.
Supporting Scriptures: Matthew 5:7, “Blessed are the merciful for they shall obtain mercy. ”
Proverbs18:24, ” A man that has friends must show himself friendly:”…
They should protect and not betray the people of the Jews that flee to them.
Verse 5 states, “And in mercy shall the throne be established: and he shall sit upon it in truth in the Tabernacle of David, judging and seeking judgment and hasting righteousness.”
LESSONS
People of God, let’s learn to show mercy when necessary.
Let us guide ourselves against pride. Let us learn from what happened to Moab! He was very proud because of his wealth! He refused to help the seed of Israel when they were in need. Now it is their own turn to be in distress. They were paying tributes in their own land.
Let us be warned!
Do not put your trust in uncertain riches for they do develop wings and fly away!
Put your trust in God alone!
Help those in need when you can!
PRAYER
Father, we thank You for Your Word is true!
Father, help us to be humble no matter the heights You take us to in life!
Help us to be kind to people and show them mercy when necessary.
In Jesus Christ’s Mighty Name we pray! Amen!
Thank You Jesus!
REFLECTIONS ON ISAIAH CHAPTER 17
Today, we study the Book of Isaiah chapter seventeen, where judgment was pronounced on Damascus and Israel for IDOLATORY.
THEME:
” GOD DESERVES OUR WORSHIP”
KEY SCRIPTURE
Isaiah 17:4 “And in that day, the glory of Jacob wane, And the fatness of his flesh grow lean.”
REFELECTIONS
“BEWARE OF IDOLS”
Psalms 130 verse 3 proposes that if God marked iniquities, none could stand.
Yet, He forgives iniquities & transgression and reserves mercy for thousands!
(Numbers 14:18)
However, almighty God does NOT condone Idolatory.
Idolatory is undue devotion to anything, objects, or personality other than God.
IDOLATORY is primary sin that dishonors God.
FORGETTING GOD!
“Because you have forgotten the God of your salvation, And have not been mindful of the Rock of your stronghold… But your harvest will be a heap of ruins.” (Isa 17:10)
The FUTILITY of idol worship was exposed by Psalms 115:1-12
These idols are:
- work of men’s hands
- they are dumb
- they are blind
- can not save
Modern-day IDOLS
- Wealth & Riches
- Possessions
- Political power
- Connections/ Network
- Celebrities
- Accomplishments
- Self
Whereas the Lord is:
- The Creator of Heaven & Earth
- Our help & shield
- He blesses us
- He gives an increase
God sees Idolatory as:
1. Unfaithfulness
2. Ingratitude
3. Sharing God’s glory
Conclusion
He is “God Almighty”
( Genesis 17:1)
The Supreme Being with absolute authority over creation”
WHAT TO DO?
- BEWARE OF IDOLS
(1Jn. 5:21)
“Little children, keep yourselves from idols.”
This is a reminder to stay focused in Jesus and not give anything a higher priority than Christ.
2. PRAISE GOD
(Psalms 119:64)
Seven times a day do I praise thee…”
“AND BE THANKFUL”
Colossians 3:15-17
3. SHARE NOT HIS GLORY
“And my glory I will not give to another.”
(Psalms 42:8)
4. LET MERCY PREVAIL
“Mercy prevails over judgment.” (Ja 2:13)
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, we acknowledge Your greatness and supremacy over all. You alone deserve glory and praise.
We exalt Your name above all names. Amen.
Scriptures
Isaiah 17:4
Isaiah 17:10 -11
Psalms 130:3
Numbers 14:18
Psalms 115:1-5
Isaiah 42:8
Genesis 17:1
1 John 5:21
Psalms 119:164
Colossians 3:15-17
James 2:13