Prayer: Father, I ask for insight into the word “Oy!” For the prophet Isaiah begins this chapter with a declaration of woe to Ethiopia. May I see, listen, and learn. May I heed Your word of warning. Amen.
Reading: Isaiah 18 key: vs. 1-3 “Oy! The land of whirring wings, which is beyond the rivers of Ethiopia, that sends ambassadors by sea, in papyrus vessels upon the water. Go, swift messengers, to a nation tall and smooth-skinned, to a people feared far and wide, a nation powerful and oppressive, whose land the rivers divide. All you inhabitants of the world, and dwellers on earth, when a banner is raised on the mountains, look! when a shofar is blown, listen!” TLV
Attention: According to Patheos: The word “woe” in the Greek is “ouai” and is more than just an expression of a feeling. Woe is a judgment as we read in the Book of Revelation (chapters 8. 9, 11, and 12). It means “alas” or almost like “oh no!” When the word woe is used, it is quite possibly signifying impending doom, condemnation and/or the wrath of God so it is never used to only emphasize something in the sentence in which it is used.” (If you would like an expanded definition please click What Does Woe Mean? A Biblical Definition Of Woe | Jack Wellman (patheos.com).
In the New Testament, the word “woe” is used most in Luke and Matthew and is a term which Yeshua uses to pronounce judgement to a Pharisee & a Torah Lawyer (Luke 11:42, 43, 44, 46, 47, and 52).
So “woe” carries with it a certain gravity from the Lord. If you are guilty of the actions which Adonai and Yeshua, give warning about, expect judgement. You have been warned. Nations, people groups, and individuals, we are all warned about the gravity of our sin. God tells us He will “remain silent.” Do not be deceived about God’s silence. Silence underscores God’s character of being long suffering. He provides us with an opportunity for corrective action. Do not be deceived into thinking God no longer cares or He understands. He is giving all nations and people a chance at recognizing our wrong and repenting.
Action: I choose to heed the warning of Isaiah and to turn from all sin and hardness of heart.
Yield: I choose to submit to the Sovereignty of God.
Engage: I choose to engage with the Holy Spirit in bringing corrective action.
Relationship: I choose to live in intimate, holy relationship with God.
Prayer: Father, Your “woe” is a warning of love. May I heed, listen, and obey. Amen.
Memory Verse: Hebrews 10:26-27 “For if we keep on sinning willfully after we have received the knowledge of the truth, there no longer remains a sacrifice for sins, but only a terrifying expectation of judgment and a fury of fire about to devour the enemies of God.” TLV
Music Video: Darrell Evans—I’m Trading My Sorrows (Yes Lord) https://youtu.be/YYRc0JeQuC0?si=kBO_6Pa08KJEwut6
Remember, “Abide in Yeshua, today!”