Recommended Reading: Isaiah 20
Devotional Thought:
Isaiah 20 is a short and yet challenging chapter. God tells Isaiah to do something really humiliating. He was to walk around naked for three years in order to provide for Judah an example of what would come of them if they put their trust in anything except the Lord. In the passage, Egypt and Ethiopia were both captured by the Assyrians and humiliated by them. The same will be true for us if we put our trust in possessions, people, or places.
There are five specific areas that people are tempted to put their trust. First, many place their trust in government. God never intended for government to provide anything other than legal restraint for its citizens. God clearly commanded them to restrain evil and reward good. However, in our world today we find them wanting to provide everything from healthcare to cell phones. Do not put your trust in government. Second, many put their trust in Science. Never interpret the Bible in light of science, but rather interpret science in light of the Bible. Third, many put their trust in Education. We live in a world that seeks to elevate man and his achievements. Man often believes if he has the education he can succeed with or without God. Fourth, many put their trust in the medical field. I am thankful for the advancements in technology as it relates to testing and performing procedures for the human body. However, we cannot turn there in time of sickness before we turn to the Great Physician. Fifth, many put their trust in finances. It is necessary for us to be wise stewards, while remembering we are stewards who will give an account. We must trust the One who gave us the bank account and owns the bank account, rather than trusting the bank account itself. If we put our trust in these things rather than putting our trust in the Lord, we will one day be humiliated and shamed by our “captor.” Isaiah gives a stern warning to Judah as he gives to us. “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways, acknowledge Him and He shall direct thy paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes, fear the Lord and depart from evil.” (Proverbs 3:5-7)
Personal Prayer:
• Lord, please reveal to me the reality of my heart. Please reveal where I have put my trust anywhere other than in You.
• Lord, help me to trust Your Word. When it challenges my flesh, may I yield to the Spirit of God.
• Lord, help me to trust your way. I know the plans you have for me are good and not evil.
• Lord help me to trust your working. Help me to live with confidence that what you bring into my life is for my good and for your glory.