Here we go again. This chapter opens with a woe statement targeted at the Assyrians. The patterns we see here aren’t new. God is going to take down Assyria. Jerusalem will be spared from falling at their hands. Yet God will allow Assyria to be ruthless against Israel and other surrounding areas. But in God’s timing, Assyria will fall and be no more.
This lament to the Lord is the exact music to God’s ears he wants to hear from his people. “But Lord, be merciful to us, for we have waited for you. Be our strong arm each day and our salvation in times of trouble.” They can beg God for mercy because they have stayed the course. They also realize their strength comes from God. But it soon shifts into a false confidence of their safety as well as their own greatness.
How often do we do that? In times of struggle or fear we turn to God, but then when he works everything out for us, we go back to trusting in our own power for things. Have you ever gotten stuck in that cycle? I know I have. And then what happens? More struggle. We see that pattern playing out over and over between God and his people in the Bible. It’s easy for us to point fingers at them and shake our heads. But when we look in the mirror, we are often just as guilty.
We see here a promise of a beautiful tomorrow. “Though the Lord is very great and lives in heaven, he will make Jerusalem his home of justice and righteousness. In that day he will be your sure foundation, providing a rich store of salvation, wisdom, and knowledge. The fear of the Lord will be your treasure.” In that day, presumably when Christ’s kingdom is established, we will see the justice we have longed for. We will at last have clarity and understanding.
What do you make of this phrase, “The fear of the Lord will be your treasure?” First, what does it mean to fear the Lord? We know we can’t hide from God, so we can’t cower from that fear. Rather, I like to replace the word “fear” with “be in awe of.” In other words, “respect” God with every ounce of our being. So how is having such “awe” a treasure? It’s clarity of mind when you are sure of what you believe in. Having a wishy washy faith does not bring security. Having security in God is a treasure that cannot compare.
When we think of fear as being afraid, that is certainly how those who don’t know God must feel. “The sinners in Jerusalem shake with fear. Terror seizes the godless. “Who can live with this devouring fire?” they cry. “Who can survive this all-consuming fire?” It’s hard for us believers to understand the fury of God we see here. Can you imagine how those experiencing it, who didn’t trust in God’s deliverance, must have been feeling?
Instead, it’s so much better to be ignited by the power of God. When we are empowered by his Spirit, we are so much more productive. We can see things a lot more clearly when we channel our “fear” or “awed respect” into trust. It is so much better to surround ourselves with things of God that will lift us up for the long play rather than dabble in worldly temptations that last only for a moment.
Take some time today to think about your response to God. Do you “fear” him? How does that change how you are going to present yourself today?
Let’s pray … Lord, you are an awesome God. I am constantly amazed at your majesty and how you control all the moving parts of my life. I would be lost without you. Thank you that I can plug in to your all-consuming fire and be a shining light for you. Help me to not rely on my own power as much but tap into yours. It’s so much better. Calm my fears in things of the world outside of my control. May I do a better job of letting you take the wheel and control my life. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
