January 15, 2001
The heart of the prophet reveals the heart of God!! In Isaiah chapter 15-16 we read the prophecy against Moab. As an enemy of Israel they would be utterly destroyed and we've seen what frightening thing it is to be God's enemy; how complete and total their devastation will be. However, God's compassion always shines through...
"My heart cries out over Moab..." Isaiah 15:5a
"My heart laments for Moab like a harp, my inmost being for Kir Hareseth. When Moab appears at her high place, she only wears herself out; when she goes to her shrine to pray, it is to no avail." Isaiah 16:11
These verses show how Isaiah grieved for Moab and the destruction that was to be hers. The land would be laid to waste and famine would sweep the country. Isaiah didn't revel in her destruction he grieved over it, he understood the necessity and knew that God was just and fair in his actions but he grieved and displayed the true heart of God, even toward Moab. In chapter 16:1-5 Moab is given an opportunity to repent.. if she humbles herself before God and brings an offering to Judah she will be spared. Does Moab deserve God's compassion or this second chance?? No but God gives it anyway.