May 30th

Deuteronomy 3     Isaiah 31     Psalms 85     (Click on the Reference to go to the passage)

Isaiah 31

As Isaiah writes this prophecy Judah is under threat from Assyria. Judah as a kingdom is not strong. They have no great military might and, if invaded, would be unlikely to win. Even in the modern world we think of allies and enemies. It is clear today that were the United Kingdom invaded or attacked by a foreign power other countries would come to our aid should we need it. NATO, the UN and members of the EU would all have a part to play in protecting our sovereignty. So it was in Isaiah’s day. Judah could not protect herself so her leaders were reliant upon a strong neighbour – Egypt. It may seem strange that the country who had enslaved the Israelites is now trusted for their protection but to most modern eyes all seems fine. Isn’t it prudent to be defended in any way possible?

God is adamant – he should be the protector of Judah, not the Egyptians. The wisdom of people is not sufficient here. The people must turn to the Lord for wisdom. It is he who will defeat Assyria and not the Egyptians.

In our modern lives are there areas where we put our own provision in place at the expense of turning to and trusting God? We are encouraged to plan for the future, to take out insurances, pensions and to buy numerous financial products. These things are not wrong – in most cases they are very good. However, the question remains – do we put our faith in this provision rather than the provision of God? God’s plan to defeat Assyria may have included Egypt but when his people look elsewhere for comfort and security they are creating idols for themselves. Are there any plans and provisions you have which risk becoming a replacement for God?

(written by a member or staff)