Isaiah 31:1 (KJV)
Woe to them that go down to Egypt for help; and stay on horses, and trust in chariots, because they are many; and in horsemen, because they are very strong; but they look not unto the Holy One of Israel, neither seek the Lord!
From our anchored Scripture, the children of Israel incurred God’s wrath for turning to Egypt for help instead of seeking Him. God was disappointed that the Israelites had forgotten His wondrous works and deliverances in the past. King Hezekiah wanted to establish an alliance with Egypt for protection. But the prophet Isaiah warned Hezekiah not to go to Egypt for help but to trust solely in the Lord. Although the Egyptians were well built, numerous, and with a well-equipped army, they were men and not God. The Israelites trusted in numbers, looking up to the horses and chariots of Egypt because they were many. On the face of it, they seemed to be an appropriate balance against the strong Assyrian enemies targeting Israel. But the Egyptians were mere men, and their resources and actual help were grossly limited when compared to Almighty God.
The Lord cherishes those who put their absolute confidence and trust in Him. He lavishes His blessings on those that look to Him. Psalms 20:7-8 says, “Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the Name of the LORD our God. They are brought down and fallen: but we are risen and stand upright.” Many thinks there is safety or salvation in numbers. Many rely on many things, for instance, their experience, connection, or intelligence. But trusting in man or anything is the foundation for destruction because trusting in apparent human strength has always proved disastrous. In other words, the craving to be independent of God or trust in men is an invitation to disaster. Humans would always be humans, with their weaknesses; therefore, putting our trust in them ends in disappointment and frustration. Our reaction to our trials reveals what is in our hearts. It shows whether we will live by faith, depend upon God, and keep His commands or not. In dealing with God, what matters is relying on His promises and not the challenges we face or man. The Lord wants us not to look towards men for anything but to look up towards heaven from whence comes our help. He is our very present help in trouble.
Beloved, the strategy of satan has not changed. If he wants to ruin your life, he will make you live independently of God. There is great danger in turning away from God and going back to Egypt. There is no protection found anywhere. God alone is your refuge and defense; looking to anything else leaves you exposed and vulnerable to deception and ruin. Turning to man will give you a quick, short-term relief that you will pay with a high, long-term price. Whatever life gives you, even if it hurts, be strong and encourage yourself in the Lord. Act like all is well with you, for joy is coming. Strong walls shake, but they never collapse. Refuse to look at other sources of strength when faced with a challenge. Don’t depend on anyone in this world, for even your shadow leaves you when you are in darkness. So, determine never to allow anything to separate you from God. Come to a point where you have nothing to depend on but God. Look up to Him, and you will never be disappointed. He is all you need to have all your needs met. Depend on God, and you will be amazed at what He will do with you. If the Almighty God cannot help you in your adversity, no “mighty man” or devil can help you. When the Lord sees that you consider Him to be your only source of help, He will arise for you speedily. Remember, trials, threats, hatred, and persecution from apparently higher power will fade away when God is trusted and allowed to take charge of your situation.
O Lord, thank You for Your Word. I connect to Your help in Jesus’ Name.