Isaiah 8 -- Three Ways They Were Seeing God Wrongly

True to chapter 7, Isaiah has a son and names him "Quick to plunder, swift to spoil."  His family has become a living prophecy, my commentary says.  His own name meant "Jehovah is salvation" and his older son's name meant "A remnant shall return."  Before this younger son would form intelligent sentences, Syria and Damascus would be plundered and spoiled by Assyria. 

The nation of Judah wasn't accepting this message though, and Isaiah was given three contrasts to show the rulers the mistake they were making by being pro-Assyrian, according to my commentary:

"1)  They chose a flood instead of a peaceful river ... God offered His people peace, but in unbelief they opted for war.

2)  They chose a snare instead of a sanctuary ... God warned Isaiah not to follow the majority, which was pro-Assyrian.  Even though his stance looked like treason, Isaiah opposed all foreign alliances and urged the people to put their faith in the Lord ... Isaiah compared the Lord to a sanctuary, a rock that is a refuge for believers, but a snare to those who rebel.

3)  They chose darkness instead of light ... His words fell on deaf ears ... The true disciples of the Lord received God's Word and treasured it in their hearts.  By faith, the prophet was willing to wait patiently for God's Word to be fulfilled."

Father, I hear Your words to me in this chapter as well:  "Don't be afraid of what they fear; do not dread those things.  But remember that the Lord All-Powerful is holy ... He will be a place of safety for you ... I will wait for the Lord to help us... I will wait for Him ... I am here, and with me are the children the Lord has given me.  We are signs and proofs for the people."  I wait for Your help, Father.  Bring it in Your good timing.

Your Brother In Christ,

Gary Ford