Tyre was a Phoenician city on the Mediterranean coast. Because of her location and natural harbor, Tyre became a commercial trade center. Merchants came from Egypt, Cyprus, and as far as Tarshish (possibly in ancient Spain). Trade had made many of the inhabitants of Tyre rich and proud.

Isaiah prophesied that Tyre would be destroyed. He warned the people to run far away. Word of Tyre's fall would spread all over the Mediterranean world. The nations would be in anguish. They would wail and tremble because of what would happen to Tyre. The LORD Almighty would do this because of her pride. Her world-renown business people were like princes but they would be greatly humbled. God would use the Babylonians and Assyrians as his instruments of judgment against Tyre. After seventy years of desolation, Isaiah prophesied that Tyre would again ply her trade with the nations, but her profits would go to those who live before God.

Money and worldly splendor can easily become idols and make us proud. But the fate of Tyre is the fate of all who take pride in earthly riches and splendor instead of seeking and honoring the LORD Almighty. May whatever earnings we've been blessed to receive be set apart for the LORD.


Application: Father, thank you for this clear warning. Guard our hearts against pride and help us to honor you with our wealth.
One Word: God humbles the proud.