Chronological Reading Plan for July 21, Isaiah 28-30

Today's readings are Isaiah 28-30. Tomorrow's are Isaiah 31-34.

Isaiah 28 begins with the warning of Israel's (Samaria's) impending downfall due to their pride. This doubles as a warning to Judah whose religious leaders have made an alliance with someone other than God and have placed their trust in that alliance. 

Ariel is mentioned in Isaiah 29. This is Jerusalem. God cautions them against their religious apathy, insensitivity and hypocrisy. They, like Israel, are unwilling to trust completely in God. Rather, they have tied their destiny to a worldly nation, Egypt. 

Isaiah 30 amplifies that warnings against allying with Egypt. Deliverance (in this case from the threat of the Assyrians who have invaded Israel to the north) will come only through repentance and faith. Judah's ongoing stubbornness will only bring defeat and humiliation. 

Notice the promise given to Judah if they cry out to God. This crying out is a desperate plea for help. It is a turning to God and a total trust in Him for deliverance. If Judah's does that, they will be restored. All the warnings about foreign nations and pride are designed to draw Judah back to God. 

These are stunning lessons in learning to trust God over our circumstances. When we being to rely on worldly means and measures, or even ourselves, to provide for us or to protect us, all we really do is remove ourselves from God's provision and protection. In every case, the world will bring only defeat, disappointment and humiliation. Our trust in God will being eternal peace.