August 4
Read Isaiah 15:1
In Today's
The prophet Isaiah was inspired to turn his thoughts from the glorious future reign of the King of Peace to proclaim judgment upon the unbelieving. First it was pronounced upon the idolatrous northern kingdom, stating: The fortress also shall cease from Ephraim (Isaiah 17:3). He then included
The fortress of Ephraim refers to the ten-tribe northern kingdom, a symbol of wealth, power, and self-glory, which would be ruthlessly destroyed by
Nothing hides the will of God from view as deceptively as success and pride, both of which foster self-sufficiency. Perhaps this is why our Savior cautioned: Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust does corrupt (destroy), and where thieves break through and steal (Matthew 6:19). Wealth accumulated for self-interest may lead to greed and can weaken faith, as James pointed out, saying: My beloved brethren, Has not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the Kingdom which He has promised to them that love Him? (James 2:5).
Covetousness leads to an endless pursuit of earthly possessions. Our Lord Jesus warns: Beware of covetousness (greed): for a man's life consists not in the abundance of the things which he possesses (Luke 12:15)
The Lord is able to speak to each of us personally as to how He would have us invest in transforming lives and fulfilling His Great Commission. Paul wrote to Timothy: Charge (instruct, command) them that are rich in this world, that they be not high-minded (conceited), nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy (1 Timothy 6:17; also Deuteronomy 8:18).
Christ Revealed:
As the One who will sit on the throne of David (Isaiah 16:5) — the Lord God shall give to Him the throne of His father David (Luke 1:32-33) and as the Savior (Isaiah 19:20; compare Matthew 1:21; Luke 2:11).
Word Studies:
16:3 bewray = betray; 16:11 my bowels = my inner being, heart; 17:11 a heap = a failure; 19:8 angle = hooks; 21:14 prevented with their bread him that fled = gave food and water to the fugitives.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for The International Shortwave Radio Broadcast in honor of Henry Rogers · Staff: Ilene Wallace · Government Officials: Rep. Robert Andrews (NJ), Rep Lane Evans (IL), Sen. Barack Obama (IL), and Rep. Ted Strickland (OH) · Country: Iran (65 million) in southwestern Asia · Major languages: Farsi and Turki · Hostile to all Christian activity · 98% Muslim; .4% Christian · Prayer Suggestion: Go to God in prayer with boldness and seek His grace and mercy (Hebrews 4:16).
Optional
Memory Verse for the Week: 1 Thessalonians 4:18