1. Words in a sealed scroll (1-16)

The Lord warns Jerusalem (i.e., Ariel [altar hearth]) that she will be besieged. Spiritists cannot save them; they can make no deal with death. But God will rescue them. God gives this preview in a vision, but spiritually blind people can't understand it. Unrepentant people are blind to God's word. They think they can hide their plans from God. We cannot hide from him and live double lives. He knows all men (11-13). (See Mt 15:7-9 for Jesus' comment.)

2. The humble will rejoice (17-24)

When God's people turn their hearts to him in humble repentance, he blesses the land. When we whose eyes were blinded by pride and self-righteousness repent and humbly acknowledge our need for God, he restores our spiritual sight. Only humble people can rejoice in the Lord. When God's people again read and obey God's word, justice and mercy will be restored. When God's name is honored, and his people rejoice, the people of the world will come to God.

Application: Lord, give me a humble and repentant heart so that I may rejoice in you.
One Word: The humble will rejoice