“We have heard of the pride of Moab, an excessive pride….
Therefore Moab shall wail; everyone of Moab shall wail.” (vs 6-7)
In Chapter 15 we saw the crying out of Isaiah’s heart regarding the destruction of the wicked people of Moab. Certainly God does not delight in the death of the wicked. In verses 1-4 of Chapter 16 God has been telling them, through the prophet Isaiah, what they must do in order to stop this just judgment from happening. “God has made it appear that he delights not in the ruin of sinners by telling them what they may do to prevent their ruin” (Henry).
God gives them fair warning, a way out, and time to turn. They care not to listen. They will not listen. They see no need to listen for they are proud and their wisdom, they think, is wiser than that of the God of Israel. What need have they to listen to anyone?! “Pride goeth before a fall.”
They are even given a clear 3 year open opportunity to repent. Isaiah tells them in verse 14 that these things will take place in 3 years. Here a final warning is given with plenty of time to repent and turn from their wicked ways. Like Ninevah had they heeded the warning God, who is rich in mercy, would have spared them. “He would have healed them, but they won’t be healed. Perhaps there are more precious souls ruined by pride than by any other one lust whatsoever” (Henry).
They would not listen, “therefore Moab shall wail.” "The way of the sinner is hard" (Pr 13:15) and stubborn pride will always lead to sorrow.
Lord – Keep my heart from pride lest it destroy me and I fall! Give me ears of humility to listen to the words of wisdom from Your Scripture and from the “prophets” who speak it’s truths to me.
Humbly,
Lori
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