Isaiah 30:1-2 Woe to the rebellious children, saith the LORD, that take counsel, but not of me; and that cover with a covering, but not of my spirit, that they may add sin to sin: (2) That walk to go down into Egypt, and have not asked at my mouth; to strengthen themselves in the strength of Pharaoh, and to trust in the shadow of Egypt!
Isaiah chapter 30 is the continuation of warnings that were given to Judah and Jerusalem of impending discipline that was coming their way. Chapters 29-31 lay out the reasons why, and what would happen.
As I was reading this portion of Scripture this morning, I thought about what I heard on our local news last night and this morning. Certain political experts were hypothesizing why certain candidates won and lost. In their discussion, they claimed that certain candidates won because they appealed to certain groups. One of those groups were those who claim to be "Pro-Choice" (which is just really pro-murder!). Certain politicians lost because they would not capitulate to these immoral, ungodly organizations.
As I thought more about it, we are plagued today in America in that we have people and politicians who are taking counsel from immoral, ungodly agencies and organizations while ignoring the council of God and His Word. Society is spending most of its time, money, and energy trying to cover its sin with more sin while ignoring the direction and leadership of the Holy Spirit. The strength of Egypt and Pharaoh (the world) will not be strong enough to overturn what awaits those who turn on God.
With that being said, I would think that myself and most of my readers would not fall into this category...or do we? How often do we get into trouble and seek the counsel of other men and women (who are usually struggling with the same things we are!) while ignoring the counsel of God? How often do we seek new ideas and implementations from the world in how to raise our children and build the church? How often do we worry and fret over difficulties and situations as if God has no strength and ability to intercede? How often do we seek the shadow of the world for our comfort while fleeing the sweet Spirit of God?
May we, as the children of a holy, just, and sovereign God, forsake this world's ideologies and seek His Spirit and counsel in all that we say and do.
Oh, I think we're guilty, too. Outside of politics, we often turn to 'success' to find out the best ways. In our churches, do we not look for what brought in the largest crowds in others? And I'm not talking about the best preachers or singing groups. What programs worked for Church A? What increased Church B's attendance. We are New Testament churches. Why does not God's word work for us? Perhaps we are relying on His word, not His power? God knows the answers to all our questions. Let's ask Him.
ReplyDeleteNo question you are correct in your analysis. We are all guilty. Maybe me more than some, God must be first regardless. Thank you
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