Chapter 17 prophesies about Damascus, a city in Aram, and northern Israel (Ephraim). Aram and Israel formed an alliance to overthrow Judah (ch. 7,8). But God announced judgment against Damascus. It would become a city of ruins. The glory of Israel would also fade. Israel would waste away and very little would remain, like a field after the harvest. People and nations may scheme and depend on each other, but God rules over all. In verses 9-14, God foretold Israel going into exile because she had forgotten about God. In fact, all nations that rage against God or oppress God's people would become like chaff or tumbleweed.

Then Isaiah predicts a time when people would no longer look at idols (17:7-8). They would turn their eyes to their Maker, the Holy One of Israel.

Chapter 18 prophesies about the people of Cush (Ethiopia). They were aggressive and feared by many. Nevertheless, the LORD ruled over them too. He would quietly wait like shimmering heat from his dwelling place. Then, before Cush could reach its potential, God would cut them down. Yet, one day in repentance, some of them would also bring gifts to Mount Zion to worship the LORD Almighty.


Application: Father, though the nations scheme and rage and people are fearsome, we pray that people from all nations may turn their eyes to you.
One Word: Look to the Holy One.