Ah, sinful nation, a people laden with iniquity, offspring of evildoers, children who deal corruptly! They have forsaken the LORD, they have despised the Holy One of Israel, they are utterly estranged.1
Isaiah was sent to rebuke a people created, chosen, and cared for by God for a purpose; they chose to rebel against him. They were to mimic the very character of God on earth as it is in heaven2—to be the salt and light,3 to mirror God’s zeal for justice and righteousness,4 to promote peace and order.5 Thus, we see the righteous indignation of God.
All authority rest on God,6 meaning all other authority is delegated authority. As mentioned, God is a god of order. And he appoints authorities in the various institutions of society to carry out his planned order. The very fabric of society rest on the father of each family, the pastors or priests of the church, the principal or head and teachers of schools, the president or CEO of the various businesses, the leaders of government in the legislative, the executive, and the judiciary branch, and more. Thus, it is of primary importance to pray unceasingly for our leaders that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.7 Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those who love it will eat its fruit.8
Otherwise, God turns us over to be ruled by incompetent rulers. I will make boys their princes, and infants shall rule over them.9 Momentarily, God disciplines the one he loves and chastises every son whom he receives.10 He awaits the remnant to act. If my people who are called by my name humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and forgive their sin and heal their land.11
I said, “Let me remember my song in the night; let me meditate in my heart.” Then my spirit made a diligent search: “Will the Lord spurn forever, and never again be favorable? Has his steadfast love forever ceased? Are his promises at an end for all time? Has God forgotten to be gracious? Has he in anger shut up his compassion?”12 Selah
Notes:
1. Isaiah 1:4
2. Matthew 6:10
3. Matthew 5:13-16
4. Psalm 10:14-18
5. Romans 14:19; 1 Corinthian 14:33
6. Matthew 28:18
7. 1 Timothy 2:1-2
8. Proverbs 18:21
9. Isaiah 3:4
10. Hebrews 12:6
11. 2 Chronicles 7:14
12. Psalm 77:6-9
