Man is free to choose, but he must realise that his choices are not free from consequences. As believers, the choices we make must take into account one clear thing, namely whether the choice is contrary to His word or in line with His word and decree. We often make many justifications to justify and cloak what is in fact a mistake in the eyes of God, but from the bottom of our hearts we know when we are wrong.
Isaiah chapters 2:1- 4:6 are widely viewed by scholars as one long unit. It begins with prophecies of Zion's greatness and glory in the midst of hostile nations, then follows with a message of punishment to the nations, and finally closes with a picture of Zion's glory at the end of time. Our current passage describes the message of judgement that Israel and all nations who exalt themselves before God and refuse to follow God's ways will receive.
In verses 6-11, God is described as having cast off the descendants of Jacob. They had practised divination and witchcraft. Alliances with foreigners became widespread, through trade ventures that produced a wealth of property, horses and chariots. Unfortunately, this success made Israel fall into pride. They felt they no longer needed God. Their sin culminated in the worship of idols, statues created by man's own hands.
Isaiah urged Judah to return to God immediately. The day of judgement for these crimes is coming. That is the day of the Lord proclaimed in verses 12-19, when the Lord of hosts will be exalted and glorified above all that is high and glorious in the universe. All human glory that relies on earthly things with all their beauty will be insignificant in the presence of God. The message is so clear in verse 22, "Stop relying on man, who has only breath in his nose; for what does he count?" Why be proud of all that is perishable when the eternal and immortal Allah the Great can be our reason and reliance to endure and strive.
The Prophet Isaiah's call in the passage we read is actually a jolt that stimulates our conscience to think much deeper when dealing with various complicated decisions that tempt us to pawn His values. Don't listen too easily to your lusts and remember His decrees. We live in a world that is full of temptations. The world's values have shifted and become increasingly shallow. What was once a race for value and virtue has turned into the pursuit of profit. Our fellow human beings have become objects of desire, and other creations are no longer considered as decision-making factors. It is time for us to remember that every choice we make comes with its own consequences. Humble yourselves before God for in God alone is truth and wisdom.
