Chapter 3️⃣3️⃣
Distress and Help – Woe to you O destroyer, Assyria depicted as treacherous. The people pray for the destruction of Assyria. The invaders had ruined the farm lands. The fertile fields, the orchards and the lush pasture lands were all destroyed. Through the judgement God brings on His rebellious people, they will acknowledge God’s power. They only produce what results in their destruction and trembling grips the godless.

Only he who walks righteously, keeps away from bribes, rejects unfair gain, keeps away from murder and evil will find security in God. The Assyrian invasion forced tribute. Their speech was arrogant. They will not be seen anymore. The redeemed city will be a peaceful abode. Jerusalem was unprepared for battle against Assyria. But when God strikes the enemy down the great plunder will be divided by those in Zion.

Chapter 3️⃣4️⃣
Judgement against Nations – God’s anger was kindled against the wicked nations and will destroy them. There would be disturbances in the heavens. God’s judgement descends on Edom and for generations it would be desolate. Only desert creatures, owls, jackals and wild goats will be found there.

Chapter 3️⃣5️⃣
Joy of the Redeemed – The desert and wilderness will rejoice and blossom. The feeble will be strengthened and God will save His people. The sick will be healed and the wilderness will have plenty of water. A road was built up to make travel easier for the redeemed. The people will be pursued not by wild animals, but by gladness and joy. Sorrow and sighing will flee away.

Chapter 3️⃣6️⃣
Sennacherib threatens Jerusalem – During the reign of Hezekiah, Sennacherib king of Assyria attacked Judah and captured the fortified cities. Sennacherib sent his field commander to ridicule Hezekiah and his faith in God. He told the people not to trust Hezekiah because he would not be able to deliver them. Hezekiah was informed about the proud words of the commander.

Chapter 3️⃣7️⃣
Jerusalem’s deliverance Foretold – When Hezekiah heard the words, he put on sack cloth and went into the temple of the Lord. He sent his officers to Isaiah the prophet asking him to pray for the remnant. Isaiah told them that Hezekiah should not fear Sennacherib will hear a certain report and return to his own country, and there he would be killed.

Hezekiah’s Prayer – Hezekiah went into the temple and spread out the letter of Sennacherib and prayed that the Lord should deliver them from the enemies, so that all the kingdoms may know that he only is the Lord God. The Lord said that he would defend the city and save it. That night the angel of the Lord went out to the Assyrian camp and killed 185,000 men. So Sennacherib withdrew. When he was praying in his own temple, his two sons killed him with a sword.

Mrs Caroline Chellappa 📝
Chennai