Our God Always Wins

What is happening in this passage?

God tells us how it will end:

He wins. (v. 3, 5)

His people share his victory. (v. 3)

God’s people have vindication. (v. 4)

What is happening in this passage?

2. A ruler is described:

a. He is cruel. (v. 5-6)

b. He is prideful. (v. 12-14)

c. He is powerful. (v. 8, 16-17)

d. He had great glory during his time. (v. 11-12)

f. He is not the first, nor the last. (v. 9-10)

g. He eventually meets his just punishment.

This passage is both anchored in specific prophecy, and applicable generally.

The leader that Isaiah prophesied about, was probably a specific king of Babylon who had a lot of power, and was feared by the Israelites.

Babylon is also symbolic, throughout the Bible, as representing the nation that has rejected God’s laws.

We live in a world made up of nations like that. Some are more subtle in how they oppose God, some are more blatant. In that sense, we still live in “Babylon” and many “King(s) of Babylon” influence our world today.

Satan is still the prince of this world, and the power behind every ungodly ruler and government (which is all of them).

The reassurance that we read from our text today is that regardless of how cruel, powerful, prideful, or impressive a ruler or government may appear to be, God is not impressed. Their power is a facade, and they will eventually have to answer to the Righteous Judge.

So, What Should We Do?

Do not obsess over conspiracy theories and internet hubs. Doing so is rooted in lack of faith in God and his sovereignty. It also darkens our hearts and fills us with anger, resentment, and anxiety. Let God be God.

-For further encouragement, read 1 Timothy 1:3-4, and 4:7.

Do not harbor resentment toward your government or leaders. Vote the best you can to influence the world in godly ways. Pray for your leaders, that they would serve the LORD. Then leave the rest to Him.

What temptations do you struggle with? After resisting temptation for any amount of time, it is easy to be worn down; sin is always appealing, and it’s always easier in the moment. We need to remind ourselves that God’s way, and those who live it, will be vindicated. Sin may look like a good idea now; only the repentant receive God’s approval.

Share the gospel - Jesus’ offer of forgiveness and Lordship - with the people around you. The way to change our culture, and our government, is for the people in it to be transformed.