May 17, 2021
What does it say?
King Ahaz was challenged to trust God when he faced the threat of war. He chose to trust in a godless nation which God later used as an instrument of judgment.
What does it mean?
King Ahaz of Judah faced an imminent threat from the Aram-Israeli alliance. Isaiah promised deliverance, gave encouragement with warning, and prophesied Immanuel, God with us. God offered to affirm His promise with a visible confirmation, but Ahaz refused His offer. Rather than trust God, Ahaz made an alliance with Assyria to gain deliverance. The Assyrians came to their aid, but Judah experienced deprivation and humiliation in future years as a result of this alliance. There were consequences when the king turned to man for deliverance and refused to trust in God.
How should I respond?
How can you keep from being overwhelmed and defeated when threatening situations arise? You will either come up with a plan to deal with it yourself, or turn to God and rely on Him. As a believer, the Lord Jesus Christ is with you. Take time to think about the reality of the situation and its implications, and then bring it to the Lord in prayer. Choose to focus on God and trust His promises when fear comes. Don’t be discouraged by how things look from your earthly perspective, but get God’s view. He is sovereign over the affairs of men and nations. Stand firm, trusting in the God of the Bible.