Isaiah 33: Zion's Treasure

Isaiah 33 reads almost like a psalm.  Included within the prophet's writings are praises to the Lord and expressions of confidence in His deliverance.

Isaiah views the Lord as the stability and security of Judah, the nation's "secret weapon".  He calls out to God, "O Lord, be gracious to us; we wait for you.  Be our arm every morning, our salvation in the time of trouble" (vs. 3).  A little later, Isaiah writes, "The Lord is exalted, he dwells on high; he fills Zion with justice and righteousness; he will be the stability of your times, abundance of salvation, wisdom and knowledge; the fear of the Lord is Zion's treasure" (vs. 5-6).  Isaiah leaves little doubt that he believes that God is the One who provides salvation.

Meanwhile, being in relationship with the Lord is not without its risks. The holiness of God is depicted as a devouring fire.  Verses 10-12 show God rousing Himself amid talk of breathing fire and burning chaff.  Indeed, this causes the sinners in Zion to tremble with fear and ask, "Who among us can live with the devouring fire?  Who among us can live with everlasting flames?" (vs. 14)  Yet living with justice and integrity is seen as the key to being able to survive in God's presence (vs. 15-16).

Finally, God is seen as resolutely standing with Jerusalem and faithfully supporting her.  "Look on Zion, the city of our appointed festivals!  Your eyes will see Jerusalem, a quiet habitation, an immovable tent, whose stakes will never be pulled up, and none of whose ropes will be broken.  But there the Lord in majesty will be for us a place of broad rivers and streams, where no galley with oars can go, nor stately ship can pass.  For the Lord is our judge, the Lord is our ruler, the Lord is our king; he will save us" (vs. 20-22).

What a beautiful image of God - judge, ruler, king - and the One who will save Israel.  May Isaiah's ancient words be ours today!