GOD OUR DEFENSE AND DELIVERER

Like birds flying about, So will the Lord of hosts defend Jerusalem. Defending, He will also deliver it; Passing over, He will preserve it.” (Isaiah 31:5 NKJV)

We have in this chapter three beautiful synonyms for God. He is wise (Isaiah 31:1-3). The politicians of that time were boasting of their wisdom in having secured the Egyptian alliance, but their cleverness and strategy were not destined to be of any help to them. Why didn't they consult the Holy One of Israel, and seek the help of the Almighty? Was His wisdom only in heavenly and religious matters? Had He not the power to infuse men like Isaiah with wisdom for earthly and human politics? Surely the boast of wisdom was mockery in the leaders of the people, at that dreaded hour of Jerusalem's history, when they turned away from the light and glory of the Shekinah to seek human counselors and worldly stratagems. Not only in religious matters, but in the daily ordering of our human life, "if any man lack wisdom, let him ask of God, who giveth to all liberally and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing doubting!" (James 1:5)

He is as a lion (Isaiah 31:4). The lion is more than a match for the groups of shepherds who endeavor to stand against him with their crooks. He is not afraid of their shouting and views them with contempt. Does not this mean that the mighty presence and power of God would shelter the soul that trusts Him? All the nations might assail the city in vain while the Lion of the Tribe of Judah stood as sentry! If you are fearful of heart, and dread the attack of man, flee to God for refuge and defense (Psalm 46:1).

He is as a mother-bird on her nest (Isaiah 31:5). How wonderful these words are! How near God comes to each one of us! We are reminded of our Savior who longed to gather Jerusalem under His wings! Amid all the fret, worry, and anxiety of your life, dare to believe in a love that will not let you go!

PRAYER

God our Father, how can we thank You for Your Holy Word, and the many methods by which You would gain our confidence and love! Give us grace to return unto our rest beneath the shadow of Your wings! I pray it in Jesus' name Amen.