Jehovah's Saving Power

Situated a few miles from Israel's southern border is Jerusalem, the capital city of Judah.  The inhabitants of Jerusalem are only too aware of what has happened to Samaria.  Now they find themselves threatened by the same terrifying enemy that brought about the end of their northern neighbor.  Will they learn from what has befell Samaria?

Isaiah's next words are comforting to Jerusalem's residents.  He assures them that Jehovah still loves his covenant people, saying:  "This is what Jehovah has said to me:  'Just as the lion growls, even the maned  young lion, over its prey, when there is called out against it a full number of shepherds, and in spite of their voice he will not be terrified and in spite of their commotion he will not stoop; in the same way Jehovah of armies will come down to wage war over Mount Zion and over the hill.' "  (Isaiah 31:4)  Like a young lion standing over its prey, Jehovah will jealously protect his holy city, Zion.  No boasting, no threatening words, nor any other commotion by Assyrian troops will turn Jehovah from his purpose.

Notice, now, the tender and compassionate way that Jehovah will deal with the inhabitants of Jerusalem: "Like birds flying, Jehovah of armies will in the same way defend Jerusalem.  Defending her, he will also certainly deliver her. Sparing her, he must also cause her to escape.  (Isaiah 31:5)  A mother bird is ever vigilant to defend her young.  With outstretched wings she hovers above her brood, and with watchful eyes she searches for any sign of danger.  If a predator comes near, she quickly swoops down to defend her chicks.  In a similar way, Jehovah will tenderly care for the inhabitants of Jerusalem because of the invading Assyrians. 

Next time: "Return, You People"

From the Book Isaiah's Prophecy Light for all Mankind, 2000