30:1 The rebellious children are the people of Judah (see 1:2), those who have rebelled against God. “Cover with a covering” means to form an alliance. The negotiations for an alliance were underway, and Isaiah condemned their twisted plans. The people of Judah sought advice from everyone but God. When we are driven by fear, we tend to search everywhere for comfort, advice, and relief, hoping to find an easy way out of our troubles. Instead, we should consult God. Although he gives emergency help in a crisis, he prefers to be our guide throughout our lives. By reading his Word and actively seeking to do his will, we can maintain our bond with him who provides stability no matter what the crisis.
30:1-5 God was not happy with his people because they sought power and protection from other kings and nations. He warned them that these alliances, though inviting, would only prove harmful in the long run. Enamored of power or prestige, we also may have sought direction and guidance from sources that are not pleasing to God. Ask God to help you choose what is best and wisest.
30:2ff Hezekiah had been seeking a defensive alliance with Egypt against Sennacherib of Assyria (see 2 Kings 18:21).
30:6 This message is directed to those who carried bribes to Egypt through the desert in the Negev region.
30:10, 11 Some people in Judah may have sought refuge in Egypt. In their desire to find security, they wanted to hear only good news. They did not welcome the truth from God’s prophets. Often the truth makes us uncomfortable. We prefer lies and illusions when they make us feel more secure. It is much better to face reality than to live a lie. Don’t settle for something that makes you feel comfortable but is not true.
30:15 God warned Judah that turning to Egypt and other nations for military might could not save them. Only God could do that. They must wait for him “in quietness and in confidence.” No amount of fast talking or hasty activity could speed up God’s grand design. We have nothing to say to God but thank you. Salvation comes from God alone. Because he has saved us, we can trust him and be peacefully confident that he will give us strength to face our difficulties. We should lay aside our well-laid plans and allow him to act.
30:20 The Lord gave his people the bread of adversity and the water of affliction, but he promised to be with them, teach them, and guide them during hard times. God expects a lot from us, and many times following him can be painful; but he always acts out of his love for us. Next time you go through a difficult time, try to appreciate the experience and grow from it, learning what God wants to teach you. God may be showing you his love by patiently walking with you through adversity.
30:21 When the people of Jerusalem left God’s path, he would correct them. He will do the same for us. But when we hear his voice of correction, we must be willing to follow it!
30:27 The judgment of God will be accompanied by thick, rising smoke and words that devour like fire (see 33:14; Luke 12:49; Hebrews 12:29). People who were brought up in a church but dropped out often complain about the preaching of the wrath of God. Yet his wrath and anger are very real and are designed for the rebellious and for those who hate God, not for those who are humble and love him. Are you one of God’s people? Help others discover God’s love so that his wrath will never be an issue for them.