Babylon was the conqueror of nations and the oppressor of God's people. Proud, ruthless, and ungodly, they would destroy the Temple in Jerusalem and put God's people into captivity. In Babylon's own eyes, they seemed invincible and unaccountable to anyone. God, however, would not let wickedness reign. No man or woman, political group, or even religious system is above God. God's wrath against wickedness is thorough and unwavering.

God works in mysterious ways. Another empire would overthrow Babylon, and it would continue to rule over others in wicked ways until it, too, was conquered. Wicked people can even make hell for other wicked people. Eventually, God would intervene in a way that no, man-made institution could accomplish by sending his own son. His son would not come to destroy but to be destroyed by wickedness and to rise again in glory. God is about new life, even in the midst of wickedness. His love and mercy extend to all who are oppressed.


Application: Lord, you do not let wickedness thrive forever. You destroy any and every evil empire and give hope and new life to all who are oppressed.
One Word: The LORD reigns on high.