Devotional Reading: Isaiah 47:10-15
Background Scripture: Isaiah 47
Key Verse: Isaiah 47:15
Introduction
My husband’s grandfather, always said of evil-doers, “You might get by, but you won’t get away.” Our lesson today focuses on the prophecies of Isaiah. For all you bible scholars, Isaiah is the 23rd Book of the Bible (Old Testament); has more chapters than any other prophetic book; being the son of Amoz made him one of the most prominent citizens of Jerusalem (access to both the royal and priestly leadership of the nation of Judah). His Hebrew name means, “Yahweh is Salvation.”
He was called into his prophetic ministry in the year of the king’s death (Uzziah) and became a prominent figure during Hezekiah’s kingship. Tradition says, he was sawn in two by Manasseh, the evil king who followed Hezekiah. Due to the people’s sin (idolatry), God had two plans for the Babylonian Empire: To bring an end to Assyrian control and to punish the people of Judah because of their idolatry, let us begin our journey.
I. Failed Confidence (Isaiah 47:10-11)
Babylon’s wickedness was a show of power, intimidation, and fear - they viewed themselves above accountability for their actions. When actions go unchecked, there is the tendency to become delusional, as they became. Whenever personal tendencies become regarded as the ultimate authority (above God), no good comes from trying to unseat the Creator who is God and God alone.
Verse eleven informs us, “Therefore shall evil come upon thee; thou shalt not know from whence it riseth.” God does not purposely inflict evil; we bring it upon ourselves. Bad actions are not without consequences. Sometimes God has to allow things to happen in our lives to “wake” us up or rather bring us back into alignment with Him. The Babylonians would not foresee their punishment coming or be able to escape it once it begins. The impact of such punishment will be severe.
II. Failed Defenses (Isaiah 47:12-15)
Sorcery use was practiced throughout the ancient Near East (as a way to manipulate the gods into doing what the people wanted or needed). Isaiah mocked them, suggested the Babylonians continued with their worthless magical tricks. All of their counsel was worthless, they would not be able to save them from the impending punishment/judgement from God.
Conclusion
Though our enemies may never see the error of their ways or repent for that matter; we know our faith in God is not misplaced. It will result in seeing His plan come to fruition. Remember, you may get by but you won’t get away.
Be Blessed,
Sis. Mary Turner