Isaiah - Chapter 31

Isaiah 31.1 Woe to them that go down to Egypt for help; and stay on horses, and trust in chariots, because they are many; and in horsemen, because they are very strong; but they look not unto the Holy One of Israel, neither seek the LORD! Isaiah 31.2 Yet he also is wise, and will bring evil, and will not call back his words: but will arise against the house of the evildoers, and against the help of them that work iniquity. Isaiah 31.3 Now the Egyptians are men, and not God; and their horses flesh, and not spirit. When the LORD shall stretch out his hand, both he that helpeth shall fall, and he that is holpen shall fall down, and they all shall fail together. Isaiah 31.4 For thus hath the LORD spoken unto me, Like as the lion and the young lion roaring on his prey, when a multitude of shepherds is called forth against him, he will not be afraid of their voice, nor abase himself for the noise of them: so shall the LORD of hosts come down to fight for mount Zion, and for the hill thereof. Isaiah 31.5 As birds flying, so will the LORD of hosts defend Jerusalem; defending also he will deliver it; and passing over he will preserve it. Isaiah 31.6 Turn ye unto him from whom the children of Israel have deeply revolted. Isaiah 31.7 For in that day every man shall cast away his idols of silver, and his idols of gold, which your own hands have made unto you for a sin. Isaiah 31.8 Then shall the Assyrian fall with the sword, not of a mighty man; and the sword, not of a mean man, shall devour him: but he shall flee from the sword, and his young men shall be discomfited. Isaiah 31.9 And he shall pass over to his strong hold for fear, and his princes shall be afraid of the ensign, saith the LORD, whose fire is in Zion, and his furnace in Jerusalem.

Isaiah : Chapter 31

The Supremacy of God in Isaiah 31

Chapter 31 of the book of Isaiah highlights the futility of trusting in man. This powerful passage highlights how God demonstrates His supremacy over nations and human forces. It warns against alliances with Egypt, symbolizing human weakness in the face of divine omnipotence.

A Fierce Protection

Through the metaphor of the lion, Isaiah 31 illustrates the fierce protection God grants to Jerusalem. This chapter explores fundamental themes such as idolatry, repentance, and the supernatural defense God offers His people. In this context, we invite you to meditate on five biblical passages that illuminate and reinforce the truths presented in this chapter.

Illuminating Bible Passages

Psalm 20:7: "Some trust in chariots, and others in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God." This verse reflects the warning given in Isaiah 31:1 regarding false confidence in Egypt's military resources.

Hebrews 12:29: "For our God is a consuming fire." This statement echoes the description of God in Isaiah 31:9, emphasizing His purifying and protective nature.

1 Peter 5:8: "Be sober and vigilant. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour." This passage contrasts with the image of God as a protective lion in Isaiah 31:4, who watches over his people with benevolent strength.

John 10:11: "I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep." This verse echoes the image of God protecting Jerusalem like birds protecting a nest in Isaiah 31:5, emphasizing His devotion to His people.

Acts 3:19: "Repent therefore and turn to God, so that your sins may be blotted out." This verse resonates with the call to repentance and turning away from idols, as described in Isaiah 31:6-7, reminding us of the importance of a heart turned toward God.

Conclusion

As we meditate on Isaiah 31 and these biblical passages, we are invited to renew our trust in God, our protector and refuge. Divine power transcends all human weaknesses, and it is in this truth that we find our peace and security.