Isaiah 30:1-18: Who Do You Rely On?
THE TITLE OF this study is taken from Isaiah 36:4, in which Hezekiah's court officials hear the Assyrian field commander scornfully mock Jewish military capability. And indeed there were apparently many in Judah who were not at all sure that the Lord would be able to protect Jerusalem. Meanwhile, Isaiah still hammers away at the same message he has been preaching all along: "Trust in the Lord at all times." Military alliances can do little to preserve a society that is already corroded and rotten within.
Warming Up to God
Describe a time when it has been difficult for you to trust in God.
Read Isaiah 30:1-18. »
Discovering the Word
- Why does God object to Judah's taking shelter under the shadow of Egypt (vv. 1-5)?
- How do verses 6-7 emphasize the utter futility of seeking Egypt's help?
- From verses 8-11 describe the Israelites' behavior.
- From verses 10-22 how do you think Isaiah was regarded by the people?
- How is the metaphor Isaiah uses to depict God's judgment particularly appropriate to their sin (vv. 12-14)?
- How do verses 16-17 depict the price of unbelief?
Applying the Word
- What is the difference between faith and wishful thinking?
- What sort of "Egypts" are we tempted to turn to today?
- Consider some particular trouble you are facing at this time. What steps do you need to take in order to trust that God will be gracious to those who wait for him—as verse 18 promises?
Responding in Prayer
Recall a time when you have experienced the kind of contentment verse 15 promises. Thank God for that gift, and pray that he will renew contentment in you.
For Further Study
Faith by Dale Larsen & Sandy Larsen