SCRIPTURE: ISAIAH 3
MEMORY VERSES:
“Tell the righteous it will be well with them, for they will enjoy the fruit of their deeds.” (Isaiah 3:10)
“Woe to the wicked! Disaster is upon them! They will be paid back for what their hands have done.” (Isaiah 3:11)
JUDGMENT ON JERUSALEM AND JUDAH (vs. 1-26)
The leaders of Judah trusted substitutes such as natural resources, national wealth, military might, political experiences and religion. But God’s wrath will take away all the substitutes and replace their proud leaders with weaklings who were without ability to rule. People will oppress each other – man against man, neighbor against neighbor. (v. 5).
The women had became addicted to wealth and fashion in boasting their social status while disregarding their spiritual character. In that day, the Lord will bring sorrows to them. Many men will die in the long war. They will lament and mourn for their husband sitting on the ground.
THOUGHTS:
Because of disobedience, Jerusalem was besieged. The people were suffering serious affliction and great destruction. The nation lost its leadership. However, in the middle of this experiences, God gave hope to the righteous. They will receive God’s reward and the wicked will be punished. Let us hold on to God’s truth that there will be justice in the end. He will reward who have been faithful to Him.
The irresponsible and corrupt leaders will be the first to receive God’s judgment. So, if you are in a leadership position, you must lead according to God’s command. God commanded leaders to help the poor. the orphans and widows. They must treat people fairly and justly. They must not accept bribes and become corrupt.
The women placed more emphasis on clothing and jewelry rather than on God. They wanted to be popular and fashionable ignoring the real purpose of life. Do not use clothing and jewelry lavishly while stay blind to the needs of others. Use what you have to help others, and not to flaunt or inspire others.