SCRIPTURE: ISAIAH 22
A PROPHECY ABOUT JERUSALEM (vs. 1-25)
Isaiah saw vision of what will happen to Jerusalem. The city leaders depended on their defenses instead of calling for fasting and prayer. The people feasted and had no faith in God. Shebna was in charge of the palace but he used his office for personal again. His deceit was uncovered and exposed. As a result, he could not enjoy retirement, security and a fine burial. He experienced captivity, exile and a lonely death.
Eliakim, son of Hilkiah was a servant chosen by God to rule Israel. He was trustworthy and responsible, who was a father to the people. God will place on his shoulder the key to the house of David. He will be a seat of honor for the house of his father.
THOUGHTS:
The leaders prepare for war by getting the weapons, inspecting the walls and storing up water in a reservoir. But all their works was powerless because they never asked help from God. Sometimes, we also take steps by depending on our own wisdom without asking from God for help. We must get our weapons ready and inspect the walls but we need God to guide our work.
When the people was in despair, they chose to eat and drink instead of seeking repentance. In response to their hopelessness, they result to self-indulgence. As we face difficulties, the proper response should be to trust God and his promises.