Observation: Isaiah begins to give a series of prophesies that actually leap beyond the next events. These include elements like ... the defeat of Babylon by the hands of the Medes and Persians (even though Babylon isn't even the threat against Israel yet; Assyria is), and the fall of Jerusalem (while Israel, not Judah, is currently at risk). This passage discusses how the nations of north Africa - Egypt and Ethiopia - will be attacked by the Assyrians and thus not be a safe haven for the Israelites who fled to there, despite the fact that the Israelites ... have not yet fled.
So this is really a warning against fleeing at all. Fleeing to a strong neighbor like Egypt, or to a more distant place like Ethiopia, will be of no use. There is no earthly hope, no earthly deliverance. In this world, when hardship comes, it is often the reaction to struggle and fight, even surrendering earthly material goods and enduring shame, in an effort to survive. This does not work.
Application: When hardship comes - and it will come - the only source of hope and refuge and protection and deliverance is the Lord. Any kind of earthly protection can be lost, attacked, and removed. Even protections sought at personal cost can fail us.
My help comes from the Lord, creator of heaven and earth. My hope is in Jesus Christ, our rock and sure foundation. The Lord is my refuge and my strength, and great protector in times of trouble. There is no place I can go, no think I could own, that can provide for my life beyond what the Lord himself gives and does for me.
Prayer: Lord, my trust is in you. Please be with me and my family this day and every day. Do not let us be ashamed in the eyes of men, nor let us fear for life or health or want. Instead, let me and my house praise you this day and every day. Amen.
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