Scripture Reading: Isaiah 19:1-25, Isaiah 20:1-6, Isaiah 21:1-17, Romans 9:14-18
My extroverted friends have told me that when they walk into a room full of strangers they start buzzing with energy at the thought of all the new people they’re about to meet. But me? Not so much. My favorite part of any gathering is the delight of seeing an unexpected, yet familiar, face walk into the room.
On the heels of prophecies about Babylon, Assyria, Philistia, Moab, Damascus, and Cush, turning the page to Egypt felt a little bit like that for me. If this was a real-life party, I’d be looking at Egypt asking, “Wait, what are you doing here?” “How do you know Judah?”
I often have to remind myself that though these oracles were proclaimed against other nations, they were actually spoken for Judah. So why might Egypt’s future matter to them? Let’s start with a thematic refresher to pull us out of the weeds of prophetic poetry for a minute. The book of Isaiah details the prophesied judgment against Judah for their ongoing disobedience. This judgment would be expressed, in part, through other nations taking them captive and removing them from their land. And Egypt was a nearby nation that Judah would have been tempted to form an alliance with in hopes of maintaining their independence from one of their potential captors, Assyria. Isaiah 19 provides the framework for why the Lord would later condemn this alliance in Isaiah 20 and 30: the nation of Egypt could not be Judah’s hope.
It’s hard to read Isaiah 19 without first being reminded of Egypt’s history with God’s people. In Exodus, God’s people were rescued from slavery in Egypt through miraculous events—works that displayed God’s power and superiority. Isaiah affirmed what God’s people had already experienced: the gods that Egypt put their hope in were “worthless” (Isaiah 19:1). Why turn to the nation that trusted in a worthless idol?
But it wasn’t just their past that affirmed why Egypt couldn’t be Judah’s hope. Though we don’t know the exact timing of the prophesied events of chapters 19 and 20, we see that Egypt’s destruction was inevitable. The Lord ensured that “No head or tail, palm or reed, will be able to do anything for Egypt” (v.15). And it’s the Lord Himself who appears as the one who “will strike Egypt, striking and healing” (v.22).
God’s destruction of Egypt was a part of His sovereign plan to bring them in as His own people too. There was an unexpected end on the horizon, and it’s not just for the people of Judah. “The LORD of armies will bless them saying, ‘Egypt my people, Assyria my handiwork, and Israel my inheritance are blessed’” (v.25).
Egypt would fall. And Egypt would rise. Egypt and Assyria were both headed toward the place that the people of Judah already found themselves in—sitting underneath the revealed rule and reign of God. Isaiah was calling Judah to trust in the God every other nation would eventually turn to and worship.
And this prophecy is our hope too. Our hope, trust, and security can’t be found in any nation; our hope is in the One who already rules over them all.
Written by Hannah Little
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123 thoughts on "A Pronouncement Against Egypt"
This recap is fantastic! Thanks for pulling it all together for us
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Praise God, our one and only hope!❤️
I love how this is stated, “Our hope, trust, and security can’t be found in any nation; our hope is in the One who already rules over them all.”
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I love how Romans 9:14-18 and Isaiah 19-21 show that God’s mercy and judgment aren’t about human effort, they’re entirely up to Him. Romans reminds us that His compassion is freely given, and Isaiah makes it clear that even the strongest nations are still under His control. It’s such a good reminder that no matter how chaotic things look, God is always working out His plan.
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Amen ❤️
It’s hard to read about God having mercy and those he wants to and hardening the hearts of those he wants to . I may be confused by this, but I know that God is good and he wants everyone to repent and turn to him.
Jennifer Anapol, I think it’s a hard thing to read, too. I know that God has always used evil people or nations to achieve His will, particularly in punishment of His own people. But to know that he hardens some who he chooses is still a difficult thing to hear. He is all knowing, all loving, and perfect. I only need to trust.
We have a good friend that is Egyptian. His family fled from there when he was 5. They are christians and needed to leave. We don’t feel that as strongly in this country. I do believe we are seeing persecution to believers more and more.
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It’s so true that we can only find our hope, trust, and security in God.
Yes, there is lots of persecution happening here more and more. (although we don’t fear for our lives like in many countries currently..praying for those in Syria)! I follow a couple of legal Agencies that take on cases so I am more aware.
I heard God tell me… Don’t go make an alliance and look for hope from what I’ve already rescued you from. WOW.
What stood out to me was when Israel knew it was going to be invaded. They wanted to run to Egypt for the solution. The God wanted them to run to him and be obedient to him.
How many times in a crisis have I tried to come up with a solution on my own rather than running to Jesus in prayer. Listening to what he is telling me and being obedient to his word.
I also love the picture of God’s grace and redemption to Egypt who had been so cruel to the Israelites. I could also see why God didn’t want the Israelites to go back to Egypt. I just think it would be a picture of returning to a life of sin. I’ve never seen Isaiah like this before even though I’ve read through it many times. It is beautiful how God shows his love and desire to redeem as many as he can to himself. A beautiful story of redemption.
Praying for all!
Prays for me to have wisdom for how much to use my fingers on the hand for the wrist was broken. My husband pointed out to me that in my new cast. I’m moving my fingers a lot more. I just need wisdom to know what to do and what not to do. Seems like a silly request, but I would appreciate your prayers. I don’t wanna have to go through this again.
God is good and I’m so thankful for all of you ladies and all of your insights. You bless me every day.
Praying for wisdom, Cheryl! Maybe you could speak to a nurse at your doctor’s office about that? Thinking maybe the new cast was intended for more mobility, but thankfully I have no experience there! Surprised the doc didn’t specify. Hugs! ❤
Yes, it’s amazing how God keeps revealing more to us each time we are in scripture! Who would think I would LOVE Isaiah! My pain group had to abort because it was a lot of reading of Isaiah and the accompanied book and questions…but it was still good, but the daily reading breaks it up a bit more for me!! Praying for your request! Nothing is too little to bring to the Lord!!
I’m praying for healing for your wrist. And to use your fingers as much or as little as necessary for healing.
Praying for wisdom and a smooth recovery, Cheryl!
He is our hope and future!!
This makes me think of Lauren Daigles “I will trust in you.” You are my strength and comfort
You are my steady hand
You are my firm foundation
The rock on which I stand
Your ways are always higher
Your plans are always good
There’s not a place where I’ll go
You’ve not already stood
Have a blessed day ladies!
Thank you, Tami.
Love that song! (all of hers!) And “Trust in God–Elevation! The new song- I know A Name is SO good. We played it at jail yesterday and it fires me up!!
I love “I know a name”! I’ve listened to it so much I wake up with it in my head lol
I’m commenting on your comment from yesterday. I think I probably would have been to stubborn as well. I’m better than I was, but can still go there.
I love this song!❤️
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“And this prophecy is our hope too. Our hope, trust, and security can’t be found in any nation; our hope is in the One who already rules over them all.”
No matter what the mess there was or what a mess we currently have in our world, God’s hand is Sovereign and He is the King on the throne.
Thank you Father that you are our hope in all things and for everything; that you are indeed the ruler over all. Amen
Amen. ❤️
Amen ♥️
I had something ALL written out and BOOM erased. a little frustrating. need to get read for work Please pray for my sister’s family especially for her MIL who is not doing well and is back in the hospital That they will put their hope in Jesus!
I hate it when that happens! I’m sure it was profound, and also very “cathartic” for you to write. It benefitted only you today and not the rest of us, I guess.
Prayers, Mari! Have a blessed day! ☺❤
Praying, Mari ♥️
God is love, but he does hate displays against his character and what he desires for his people. These are actually listed in Proverbs…
“There are six things the Lord hates,
seven that are detestable to him:
haughty eyes,
lying tongue,
hands that shed innocent blood,
a heart that devises wicked schemes,
feet that are quick to rush into evil,
a false witness who pours out lies
and a person who stirs up conflict in the community.
This stands true, old testament and new. God hates when his people KNOW what his word says, yet turn a blind eye and still act on their own accord. We can’t really hold this against non-believers, because…well, they are non-believers. They will receive judgment, but wow to those that have received but not live that way. But we are not to be perfected, on our own we can’t, but we are perfected in our weakness through Him, by Him, for Him! A simple question- Do we love the Lord more than we did a year ago? A month ago? Sanctification is being transformed with our love for Jesus! We are like a butterfly in a cocoon, pushing and shoving, working our muscles so we can fly! The transformation never ends though, we may be a beautiful butterfly, but then challenges still come.
I too have come to love Isaiah, because as someone else mentioned- how can we appreciate his great love for us to send a solution for our wayward, stiff-necked Israelite ways?!! How can we know the light without the dark? How can we know whole without being broken?! We don’t know our need for a Savior until we are in a pit, fire, or storm usually- that first time we cry out for help in desperation! Then we all have a before Jesus and after Jesus story to tell!! People may not want to read the Bible, but they love to hear our life story!! Share your story- of how your test transformed you, your mess was cleaned up by Him! Therefore your test is your testimony, your mess your message!! Shine your lights today sister. The world is a mess, the country can seem like a mess, but we know the One in charge- The Lord of Lords, King of Kings, Savior of my soul!! Amen!
Preach, sister! ❤❤❤
Amen, and keep preaching. I am saving this for when I need it which is daily.
Yes! I was at the hair salon today and one of their reps came in and told the cocoon/butterfly story.
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I have never read this like this before. That Egypt would be His people too! Wow! I just keep seeing that after every judgment is restoration! Easter/Lent/resurrection is a walk toward wholeness and restoration! What. Beautiful! Beautiful! God we serve!
Yes, perfect leading up to Resurrection Day!!
My hope can’t be put in ANY THING ELSE but God. No person, no thing, no other sneaky idol in my world.
God is my only hope!
God is the hope of the whole world!
God is the hope of the universe.
Thanks be to God♥️
Amen and so beautifully said, Annie.
Thank you.❤️
Amen
I was getting lost in the weeds of the prophecies. This devotion really helped me to see what God was doing. ❤️
Same! Very helpful.
Same, Jody, and Annie!
God, let me always remain faithful to You. Remind me never to forget that You are the one I should turn to first in every situation. Your guidance should be my priority before seeking advice from anyone else because, in the end, only Your wisdom truly matters. Help me respond to life and others in a way that reflects my desire to please You above all. I am grateful that You walk with me and even more thankful for the Holy Spirit, who counsels and convicts me when needed, keeping me on Your path. Lord, thank You for Your unfailing love.
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RANDOM question/ REQUEST…
I’m trying to find the name of a theorist / philosopher/? who I’ve seen mentioned in a few Christian books. He took the faith in God question and broke it down in a more practical/ mathematical thing, probabilities. I will not state it well because I’m working with a long ago memory but want to find the resources for my very intelligence-focused FIL.
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One on axis is belief in something (Christ) and the other is it’s actual existence.
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If God does not exist, but you believe He does…what’s the risk / result. (the worst would likely be you lived as a bit of a fool, died, and there was nothing else)
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If God does not exist, and you believe He does not…what’s the risk / result.
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If God DOES exist AND you believe He does…what’s the risk / result. (Eternal yaaaaay, if you lived this way!!!)
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If God DOES exist BUT you DO NOT believe He does…what’s the RISK / RESULT.(ie. eternal separation from God!)
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Does anyone know who I’m referring too?! I think it’s called the “___ Rule” or “___’s Theory”
(MANY THANKS)
* I meant to write “hope-filled fool”
It’s Pascal’s Wager.
Aaaaaah, MANDI!!!! THANK YOU❤️
You are welcome! My older daughter just read Pascal’s book so it was fresh in my mind!
Not sure, but perhaps The Case for Christ by Lee Strobel.
Thank you! I’m assuming Lee Strobel is among those I’ve heard mention it.
I agree. The Case for Christ by Lee Strobel is excellent for someone who doesn’t believe.
Amen❤️
Oh man I’m so grateful Jesus was always the gift and the plan. Reading about all this judgement isn’t easy, But God always had a way prepared. I pray for those close to understanding and receiving to step in faith.
Ladies, I have had confirmation the last day or so my surgeon is top notch. I will see clients yet today and then look forward to resting. Please pray for me to do that and to ask and accept help. I have been a natural caregiver from a young age. My sister is visiting briefly today and will be back next week to help. It can create tension when she is here and I’m hoping it will be minimal this time.
Oh Danielle! Wonderful to hear about your “top notch” surgeon (I had one too 15 years ago!)…but I’m still sending you the best Surgeon, the great Physician to guide hands and supervise.
I pray that you will have a period of true rest and will allows those helping you to receive the reward / gift of serving others. (I know it can be uncomfortable and cause tension so we’ll pray for that too!)
Praying, Dear Friend! Asking Jesus to Guide your family in response to your needs, as you recover. ♥️ Also, praying for wisdom, strength and steady hands for your surgeon, complete Healing and restoration!
Praying❤️
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Encouraging news! Prayers for stamina to see your clients today, renewing rest, plentiful help, and peaceful sister visit! Praying your sister shows compassion and doesn’t ‘stir the pot’.❤
Praying Danielle!
Praying for you dear Danielle B- for peace, comfort, and TRUST!
I’m proforma you, Danielle. I pray for your peace, as you wait, for your healing, and for a stress-free visit with your sister. I’m so impressed you are still seeing clients with all that’s on your mind. I know God is using you to bless others.
Praying for
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My husband and I were having a discussion over dinner the other day about our pastor’s sermons.
He works very hard to make sure he focuses on scripture that lifts people up, and if the scripture he has doesn’t, he tries to find a grain of optimism there somewhere.
That being said, he doesn’t preach often on the old testament. So when I read verses like, “On that day Egypt will be like women and will tremble with fear because of the threatening hand of the Lord of Armies when he raises it against them,” I’m a little taken aback, and reminded I need to be doing my own Bible studies more regularly. I’m so thankful foe this one!
What my husband and I discussed was that we cannot fully understand grace without a deep understanding of sin and the judgement that comes with it. We cannot grasp the depth of Jesus’s sacrifice until we are confronted with the truth of what life would be like without it.
These verses about Egypt are about judgemental and healing, punishment and restoration, and I am so thankful that God has chosen both. I am so thankful God does not stay angry forever. I am so thankful for Jesus. And I am so thankful for the Bible’s truth about both God’s view of sin. and His relentless pursuit to save us from it.
“And I am so thankful for the Bible’s truth about both God’s view of sin. and His relentless pursuit to save us from it.” Yes and amen, Meagan! Thanks so much for sharing that! I am thankful you and your husband recognize that at a young age and are seeking that knowledge in your private study/discussions. Praying that God will reveal just the right church for you when you move. ❤
Yes, amen!
I must say that when I read the comment about the Egyptians being like women, my first thought was that clearly this prophet had never been present at a childbirth. The on/Gyn who supervised my last 3 pregnancies said without hesitation that he had no doubt which the weaker sex was; he’d seen too many fathers present at their children’s births to ever deem men stronger that women. He was not a father himself, so I found this especially insightful and affirming. :)
“Our hope, trust, and security can’t be found in any nation; our hope is in the One who already rules over them all.” AMEN.
Key Takeaway for me: Gods power over all nations, no nation can escape, but there is hope…
Your name is the highest
Your name is the greatest
Your name stands above them all
All thrones and dominions
All powers and positions
Your name stands above them all
Jesus, Your name is the highest
Your name is the greatest
Your name stands above them all
Above all thrones and dominions
All powers and positions
Your name stands above them all
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May all the nations turn to and worship the Lord. Lord, please guide and protect those who are teaching Your truth in hostile areas – locally, other countries or even in our homes.
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Going out on a limb here as this question came to mind this morning. Which is harder – to fast from social media and/or other things we spend our time on, or to abstain from studying God’s word?
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SAM D – so sweet! Thank you for sharing and reminding us that these little ones are taught by what they see.
MERCY – your words rang true yesterday, thank you ❤️ And love your kids take on a stern look, lol!
BRIANA JENKINS – yes, being diligent and staying focused on the Lord and our relationship with Him – that’s what matters
CEE GEE – ❤️ thank you for the heads up on Annemarie! And yes, the evil one is always looking for a chink in our armor of faith
MARGARET W – so true! I resented the strictness and discipline of my parents as they tried to “raise me right.” Even with that guidance, I took the rocky road – the long, long way to come to know Jesus. Where would I have ended up without their diligence?!
TAMI – same wrong choice here. After that marriage ended, that’s when everyone spoke up, with the same reason your mom gave – that I wouldn’t have listened. Sadly, they were likely right :/
WENDY B – such a thought provoking post yesterday- thank you!
TERESA DONLEY ❤️
ADRIENNE – praying you recover soon!
Ouch SEARCHING! Your question at the beginning really got me! I’m not really on much social media (as I mentioned in post to RHONDA J last night) but I do find myself scrolling feeds and going down rabbit holes oh so! easily. During Lent, I’ve been trying to avoid all the “extra” news but somehow, my finger swipes right towards my feed of its own volition, making me notice just how ingrained this is in me…I’ve noticed it so starkly this week!!
Let me never abstain from Your Word, Lord God,…give me a great hunger for it always.
Oh indeed Foster Mama, let me NOT EVER abstain from your Word, Lord God..❤️
Thank you… maybe today I’ll be back to “normal” (whatever THAT is! Winky face emoji!)
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My hope if you you Lord. Not in doctors or medical practices or the perfect diet. You are my hope and my foundation. You are the reason for it all. Thank you, Father, for your supernatural peace that surpasses all understanding.
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I needed that reminder, Kayla.
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Amen
Like Hannah, I was happy to read of Egypt’s eventual turn to the Living God. One dy all nations, tribes, and tongues will worship Him.
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Felt bad that Isaiah was called to expose himself for three years to be a picture of God’s message. More on that from the Faithlife Study Bible:
“The prophets of Yahweh often found themselves on the opposite side of cultural, political, and social propriety. Isaiah’s walking around naked and barefoot would have been shameful and humiliating, especially given his likely status as court prophet and advisor to kings.
“It is unknown whether Isaiah walked around naked and barefoot for three years continuously. It may have been an intermittent act done to remind the people of the coming judgment. Alternatively, he may have literally spent three years exposed. Ashdod rebelled ca. 715 BC; this episode seems to be set at the end of the three years, around the time of the campaign in 711 BC.”
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FOSTER MAMA – praying for your meeting today and that God’s will be 100% clear.
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LEANNA THOMPSON – praying your son’s appointment today brings some solutions for his spine.
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Yes, please do continue to pray. I had a pre-meeting yesterday that went SO well…except I did a bit of self-sabotage near the end…WHY?! I don’t really needed more “weakness” to work through, LoL! Need to trust Him, with the whole situation (including my often impulsive tongue). Thank you dear KELLY NEO
(BTW: I love that when I type “Kelly” in my phone, 1 of 3 predicted words is “NEO” ❤️)
(typos everywhere today)
I don’t think God really needed more weakness in me to work/ shine through LoL
Hopeful your meeting was in God’s hands and plan and that His will was done..
He is Good, Foster Mama, all the time..❤️
Thanks for lots more to think about/research! ☺
Praying in agreement with you for Leanna and son and Foster Mama! Looking forward to reading about the outcomes.❤
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Thank you Kelly! Will update soon.
The devotion’s focus on the big picture was helpful – in the end, only those people/nations that trust in the Lord of Armies will have a future and a hope. But, boy – those first fifteen or so verses of Chapter 19 feel shockingly familiar….
Father, may we be salt and light to all those around us today!
Blessings on your Thursday, Ladies.
Please Lord, forgive me for putting my hope in things besides you. Help me to trust only in you, not in my husband, money, or the IVF process.
Prayers for your peace of heart and mind and God’s wisdom in your journey
My daughter is also going through IVF. Prayers for you.
Praying, Emma
Currently carrying my second ivf miracle. Prayers for you!
❤️I will pray for you! My sister had one on IVF after a year and then two more children naturally. God truly is in control!♥️
Praying for you, Emma!
Joining our sisters in praying for God’s blessing in this! ❤
Emma, holding you up in prayer for peace of heart and for your guide to be Father God and your hope be in Him..
Bless your heart, Emma.❤️
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Amen