SEPTEMBER 16, Isaiah 19:1-2

Egypt and Assyria were the two superpowers in the ancient world. While the Assyrian power was growing stronger in Isaiah’s days, Egyptian power was on the wane. This was working out according to God’s plan for the nations. Egypt was an idolatrous land, and the time of its judgement was at hand.

God shall make use of the Assyrians to come into Egypt and conquer it. But before that, the country would be much weakened by internal strife  Egyptians fighting against other Egyptians. The economy of the country would also suffer, with waters of the River Nile drying up. In the ancient world, rivers were extremely important. We may not realise the importance of rivers but then, rivers could bring death or life. People used rivers for drinking, washing, irrigation, and transportation. And the powerful and long River Nile was the lifeline of Egypt; the country’s fortunes rose and fell with the river.

You may recall how influential Egypt must have been in the time of Joseph and later, Moses. Under Joseph, Egypt was able to store up plenty to tide her through the lean years and when countries came a-begging, they must have given her a lot of precious stones and metals just to buy food. During the time of Moses, Egypt under Pharaoh was also powerful.

However, today’s reading tells us that with God against Egypt, even the mighty Nile was useless and the wisdom of Egypt’s wise men confounded. But not all is hopeless. God’s arms remain wide open to all who will believe and today, many Egyptians would have accepted Christ as Lord and Savior and are believers themselves!

Thought: God is in charge over all!

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the reminder that You are in charge over all. As I see how troubles can affect my family, my friends and myself, I want to commit to You all these problems. They may be difficult for us to handle but surely You are able to help us as You are in complete control of all. May I always look to Jesus for help. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.