Grasp the Gospel — Bible Comprehension Quizzes

Isaiah 19 Devotional

Enemies Named as His Own

“The LORD of Hosts will bless them, saying, “Blessed be Egypt My people, Assyria My handiwork, and Israel My inheritance.””Isaiah 19:25 (BSB)

The LORD comes to Egypt riding a swift cloud, and everything Egypt trusts begins to fail. Its idols tremble, its people turn on each other, the Nile dries up, and its famous wise men give foolish advice (19:1-15). The judgment is thorough because Egypt's self-confidence was thorough.

Then comes a surprise. Egypt cries out to the LORD, and he sends a savior to rescue them (19:20). He strikes Egypt and then heals it; they turn to him, and he answers their prayers (19:22). A highway opens between Egypt and Assyria, the two powers that had pressed hard on God's people, and they worship together (19:23). Finally the LORD of Hosts blesses Egypt and Assyria alongside Israel, calling Egypt his people and Assyria the work of his hands (19:24-25). Names that belonged to Israel are spoken over its oppressors. His judgment aims at healing, and his mercy is wider than anyone imagined. No one is so far from God, or so long opposed to his people, that his grace cannot reach them.

To think about: Who seems too far from God to you, and how does his blessing on Egypt and Assyria change how you pray for them?

About Isaiah 19: Judgment and Blessing for Egypt

The LORD comes against Egypt, stirring civil war, drying up the Nile, and confusing its counselors. Egypt then turns to Him, as cities pledge loyalty, an altar is raised, God sends a deliverer and heals them, and Egypt and Assyria join Israel in worship and blessing.

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