Isaiah 16 Devotional

Shelter Pride Would Not Seek

“in loving devotion a throne will be established in the tent of David. A judge seeking justice and hastening righteousness will sit on it in faithfulness.”Isaiah 16:5 (BSB)

Moab's refugees reach the border of Judah with a plea for shelter, asking to be hidden from the destroyer (16:3-4). In answer, the prophet looks past the crisis to a coming throne in David's house, held by a ruler marked by loyal love and faithfulness, who seeks justice and is quick to do right (16:5). Safety lies under the king God provides. The New Testament announces Jesus as the one given David's throne forever (Luke 1:32-33).

But Moab has a problem older than its invaders. Its pride, arrogance, and conceit are well known, and all its bragging is hollow (16:6). So its vineyards are trampled, the harvest songs fall silent, and its people wear themselves out praying at a sanctuary that cannot help them (16:8-12). Once again the prophet weeps with them (16:9-11). The tragedy is not only judgment, but that refuge was in view while pride kept reaching for the wrong shrine. The way into the King's shelter is to come asking, not boasting, and that way is still open.

To think about: Where might pride be keeping you from asking God for the help and shelter he offers?