Read: Is. 35-36
Since chapter 36 is just the beginning of a story, I’m going to start with it. The king of Assyria has besieged Jerusalem with his army. He sent his chief butler, Rabshakeh to give them his warning. He warned them not to trust in Egypt or in the Lord because he said the Assyrians were stronger than both. He spoke in the Hebrew language so he could intimidate the whole city and everyone would be able to understand what he was saying. He told them that if they would surrender to him he would take them to Syria where they would have plenty to eat and drink and have their own land. He told them to be aware of Hezekiah’s false promises of hope.
The devil is the great intimidator. He will say anything to get God’s people to fear. He is doing that right now in our nation and if we are not careful, we will be intimidated by him also. Satan offers false hope and lies that he can’t deliver. We need discernment to know the truth. It is wonderful to hear so many Christian songs talking about being brave because that is what we need to be right now. We win in the end and God is still in total control.
I wanted to end with chapter 35 since it is a chapter of hope. The wilderness and the desert will blossom like a rose. Physically this is happening in Israel, but spiritually it will happen too. God’s people will rise up with joy and singing and we will see the excellency of our God! To the fearful of heart, God says, “Be strong, fear not: behold, your God will come with vengeance, even God with a recompense; he will come and save you.” Healing and miracles will be unleashed, blessings will be on the earth and holiness will be the way. The ransomed of the Lord will return to Zion with singing and joy!
Lord, we put our hope in You. We refuse to be fearful or intimidated by the devil’s lies. You are our God and you win!
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