“In that day shall Egypt be like unto women: and it shall be afraid and fear because of the shaking of the hand of the Lord of hosts, which he shaketh over it. And the land of Judah shall be a terror unto Egypt, every one that maketh mention thereof shall be afraid in himself, because of the counsel of the Lord of hosts, which he hath determined against it.” (Isaiah 19:16-17)

Does a nation who has the most powerful military in the world, the best education system, and a strong government have any need to fear and shake like a woman in danger?

If God has determined against that nation, they certainly do have reason to fear.

The imagery here is simple yet powerful. God has been holding back the power of Sennacherib, King of Assyria. But, with the wave of His hand, God allows this army to sweep in and conquer even the most powerful of nations.

Egypt had already seen how God had judged against Israel in chastisement. If God does this to those that are His, what will he do to a nation or individual that completely defies Him?

When we completely reject the wisdom, righteousness, and trust of God, we sentence ourselves to certain destruction.

However, in obedience to God’s word we find joy, love, security and peace. This is not a dreadful obedience because He is our loving Father. But we should not take for granted that God will bless us despite our behavior.

God has called us to holiness and blesses those that walk in His paths.