SEPTEMBER 17, Isaiah 23:1

In the days before air power, the ability to project power by way of ocean-going ships was something nations and cities were proud of. One such city was Tyre. However, to the sailors of Tyre returning from Tarshish (Spain), news reached them that made them sad and disappointed.They heard even when they were as far off as Chittim (Cyprus) that their precious and prosperous Tyre had fallen! She had become a wasteland. Because of her pride, Tyre could not escape judgement from the Lord; she would be taken captive to Babylon!

Like the Jews who were taken captive to Babylon for 70 years, so Tyre was doomed to the same fate (verse 15). Isaiah prophesied that she would recover as “the Lord would visit Tyre” (verse 17).

Tyre was a materialistic city which prospered by engaging in commerce for selfish ends, “fornication with all the kingdoms of the world”. God is not pleased with ill-gotten riches and a life of pleasure that does not give Him the glory. Many in the world rely on riches. Many in the world rely on connections and power. Let us not be such. May our parents not be such as well. If we are born into a wealthy family, we are to be humble for God has given our parents wealth. If we are born into a family of more modest means, we are to remain thankful to God for whatever we have, whether it be more or less, everything comes from our heavenly Father.

There is no wrong in being wealthy but it is wrong to want to be wealthy or to be boastful of wealth. Learn a lesson from the people of Tyre – never be proud of things or assets you may have, whether they be your gifts, or intelligence. Instead, trust in God and keep relying on Him.

Thought: The rise and fall of cities and nations are in God’s hands.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, may I depend on You and not on myself to solve problems that I may have. Help me to be prayerful and to also seek Your guidance. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.