Destruction of Assyria

Isaiah 33:1–12
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Isaiah’s sixth and final pronouncement of “woe” upon the kingdom of Israel and Judah deals with the devastation that shall come upon the land (v. 1). It is directed against Sennacherib because of his treachery against Judah. Hezekiah had tried to “buy off” the Assyrians (II Kings 18:13-15) but Sennacherib had broken the agreement and invaded Judah anyway. This was a foolish thing for King Hezekiah to do when he took the temple treasures and tried to bribe Sennacherib, but God forgave him. When Jerusalem was surrounded by the Assyrians there was a godly remnant that prayed (vv. 2-4). God spared Jerusalem because of this remnant who prayed and trusted God. We should never underestimate the power of a praying minority.

Rejoicing in the Lord’s omnipotence, the righteous praise God for His exaltation, for filling Jerusalem with justice and righteousness, with wisdom and knowledge (vv. 5-6). But in the present, there was no peace, only lamentation (vv 7-9). Some of Judah’s bravest soldiers wept when they saw one city after another fall to the enemy. The roads were very dangerous to travel, the fields and orchards were ruined, and there was no way of escape; except to turn to God (v. 10). Isaiah describes God’s judgment as someone who’s plans will turn to chaff and straw. The hot breath of the Assyrian invaders would destroy them like a fire set to burning brushes (vv 11-12).

Application

Assyria continually broke its promises, but demanded that others keep theirs. It is so easy for me to put myself in the same selfish position of demanding my rights while ignoring the rights of others. I need to treat others as I would have them treat me.