Overview

Isaiah 13 is a prophetic declaration of God’s coming judgment upon Babylon. The chapter serves as a warning that even the most powerful nations are subject to God’s sovereign justice. Babylon, known for its wealth, military strength, and pride, would face divine destruction because of its wickedness. Isaiah 13 describes the fall of Babylon with vivid imagery, portraying it as a day of the Lord’s wrath, where the once-mighty empire will be overthrown by a foreign invader.

The chapter opens with a vision of God summoning an army to execute His judgment. This is not merely a human conquest but a divine act, as God Himself is orchestrating the downfall of Babylon. The passage describes the terror that will overtake the people, emphasizing that their military might and fortified cities will be powerless against the judgment of God. The language of cosmic upheaval—where the stars, sun, and moon are darkened—reinforces that this is not just a political event but a demonstration of God’s ultimate control over history.

The prophecy also speaks of the Medes as the instrument of Babylon’s destruction, which was fulfilled in 539 BC when the Medo-Persian Empire conquered Babylon. The chapter concludes with a desolate picture of Babylon, describing it as a place abandoned and inhabited only by wild animals, signifying its complete and irreversible fall.

Isaiah 13 serves as both a historical prophecy and a foreshadowing of the final judgment of all wicked nations. Babylon, throughout Scripture, represents human arrogance, rebellion against God, and worldly power apart from Him. The New Testament picks up this theme in Revelation, where Babylon is depicted as a symbol of the corrupt world system that will ultimately be judged by Christ. This chapter reminds believers that no kingdom or ruler is beyond God’s authority and that His justice will always prevail.

Historical and Literary Context

Isaiah 13 is part of a series of oracles against foreign nations found in Isaiah 13–23. This particular chapter focuses on Babylon, though at the time Isaiah prophesied, Babylon was not yet the dominant power in the region. Assyria was still the primary threat to Judah, but Babylon would later rise to great power and become a significant force in the ancient world.

Historically, Babylon was known for its grandeur, wealth, and military strength. It would eventually conquer Judah in 586 BC, leading to the destruction of Jerusalem and the exile of many Israelites. However, as Isaiah prophesied, Babylon itself would face destruction at the hands of the Medes and Persians. This was fulfilled in 539 BC when King Cyrus of Persia conquered Babylon, effectively ending its dominance.

The literary style of Isaiah 13 is poetic and apocalyptic, using vivid and dramatic imagery to describe the coming judgment. The “Day of the Lord” motif is central in this passage, a phrase used throughout Scripture to describe moments of divine intervention, whether in immediate historical events or in the final judgment. The imagery of celestial disturbances—where the sun, moon, and stars are darkened—reflects the overwhelming nature of God’s judgment. This type of language is also seen in Joel 2:10-11 and Matthew 24:29, reinforcing the idea that God’s intervention in history is often accompanied by signs that shake the very foundations of the world.

The prophecy against Babylon also carries a broader theological significance. Throughout the Bible, Babylon symbolizes human pride and rebellion against God. From the Tower of Babel in Genesis 11 to the corrupt city described in Revelation 17–18, Babylon represents the world’s opposition to God’s rule. The judgment of Babylon in Isaiah 13, therefore, is not just about one historical event but a preview of God’s ultimate judgment against all ungodly nations and systems.

Key Themes and Doctrinal Points

One of the central themes of Isaiah 13 is the sovereignty of God over nations. Babylon was one of the most powerful empires in history, yet God declares its destruction long before it even reached its peak. This demonstrates that no human kingdom, no matter how strong, can stand against the will of God. Scripture consistently affirms that God raises up nations and brings them down according to His purposes, as seen in Daniel 2:21, where it says, “He changes times and seasons; he deposes kings and raises up others.”

Another key theme is the certainty of divine judgment. The “Day of the Lord” imagery in this chapter reveals that God does not overlook sin. Babylon was known for its idolatry, oppression, and arrogance, and God declares that their destruction will be swift and total. This theme carries a broader application, reminding people that sin has consequences and that God’s justice will ultimately prevail. The New Testament echoes this theme in 2 Peter 3:10, where it describes the final “Day of the Lord” as a time when all evil will be judged.

The chapter also highlights the limitations of human power. Babylon, despite its military might, was unable to withstand God’s judgment. The passage describes warriors being paralyzed with fear, demonstrating that human strength is ultimately futile when opposed to God. This principle is seen throughout Scripture, such as in Psalm 33:16-17, which states, “No king is saved by the size of his army; no warrior escapes by his great strength.” The downfall of Babylon serves as a warning that trust in human power and earthly security is misplaced.

Another important doctrinal point is the prophetic foreshadowing of the final judgment. While Isaiah 13 is a prophecy about Babylon’s fall, it also prefigures the ultimate judgment that will take place when Christ returns. The book of Revelation picks up the theme of Babylon as a symbol of the corrupt world system that will be destroyed in the last days (Revelation 18). Just as ancient Babylon fell under God’s judgment, so too will all wickedness be judged in the end. This chapter, therefore, serves as both a historical warning and an eschatological prophecy.

Isaiah 13 also reinforces the hope of deliverance for God’s people. Though the chapter is primarily about judgment, the fall of Babylon meant liberation for the Jewish exiles. When Cyrus conquered Babylon in 539 BC, he issued a decree allowing the Jews to return to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple (Ezra 1:1-4). This shows that even in judgment, God is working to bring about redemption for His people. This aligns with Romans 8:28, which declares that God works all things for the good of those who love Him.

Isaiah 13 is a powerful reminder that God is in control of history, that no nation or power can resist His will, and that His justice is sure. At the same time, it points forward to the ultimate victory of Christ, who will one day judge all evil and establish His eternal kingdom. The chapter challenges believers to trust in God’s sovereignty, to live in light of His coming judgment, and to find hope in His promise of redemption.

Verse-by-Verse Analysis

Isaiah 13:1 

“A prophecy against Babylon that Isaiah son of Amoz saw:”

This verse introduces the prophecy and makes it clear that it is a divine revelation given to Isaiah. Though Babylon was not yet the dominant world power when Isaiah wrote this, God revealed its eventual rise and fall long before it happened. This emphasizes God’s sovereignty over history, as He declares the future with absolute certainty.

Cross-referencing Daniel 2:37-38, we see that Babylon would indeed become a powerful empire, yet Isaiah’s prophecy assures that no earthly kingdom stands forever. This verse also establishes the prophetic nature of Isaiah’s ministry, affirming that his words are not his own but are divinely inspired, aligning with 2 Peter 1:21, which states that prophecy comes from God through His chosen messengers.

Application: Just as Babylon’s fate was sealed by God’s decree, all human power and kingdoms are subject to His rule. Christians must place their trust not in earthly governments or institutions but in the unshakable kingdom of God.

Isaiah 13:2-3

“Raise a banner on a bare hilltop, shout to them; beckon them to enter the gates of the nobles. I have commanded those I prepared for battle; I have summoned my warriors to carry out my wrath—those who rejoice in my triumph.”

Here, God calls forth an army to execute His judgment on Babylon. The imagery of raising a banner suggests a call to battle, summoning forces for divine retribution. Though earthly nations are the instruments of destruction, it is ultimately God who is orchestrating these events.

Cross-referencing Jeremiah 50:9, we see a similar prophecy where God calls an assembly of nations to fight against Babylon. Historically, this was fulfilled when the Medes and Persians conquered Babylon in 539 BC. However, this passage also foreshadows the final judgment in Revelation 19:11-16, where Christ returns with the armies of heaven to bring ultimate justice.

Application: This passage reminds believers that God is in control of world events. Even when wickedness seems to prevail, God has already decreed its downfall. Christians must trust in His justice and remain faithful, knowing that He will ultimately triumph over evil.

Isaiah 13:4-5 

“Listen, a noise on the mountains, like that of a great multitude! Listen, an uproar among the kingdoms, like nations massing together! The Lord Almighty is mustering an army for war. They come from faraway lands, from the ends of the heavens—the Lord and the weapons of his wrath—to destroy the whole country.”

The scene intensifies as the approaching armies are described as a great multitude. The “faraway lands” refer to the Medes and Persians, who would come from the east to overthrow Babylon. The phrase “the Lord and the weapons of His wrath” makes it clear that this invasion is not merely a political event but a divine act of judgment.

Cross-referencing Isaiah 45:1, we see that God specifically calls King Cyrus of Persia His “anointed,” using him to accomplish His purposes in overthrowing Babylon and allowing the Jews to return home. This also connects to Revelation 18:2, where a future “Babylon” (symbolizing the world system opposed to God) is judged and destroyed.

Application: When injustice seems unchecked, believers can rest in the knowledge that God is actively working behind the scenes. He raises up and brings down nations according to His will, and His justice will ultimately be revealed.

Isaiah 13:6-9 

“Wail, for the day of the Lord is near; it will come like destruction from the Almighty. Because of this, all hands will go limp, every heart will melt with fear. Terror will seize them, pain and anguish will grip them; they will writhe like a woman in labor. They will look aghast at each other, their faces aflame. See, the day of the Lord is coming—a cruel day, with wrath and fierce anger—to make the land desolate and destroy the sinners within it.”

This passage introduces the concept of the “Day of the Lord,” a time of divine intervention and judgment. The description of fear, anguish, and weakness shows the helplessness of those who stand under God’s wrath. The comparison to a woman in labor reflects the inescapable nature of the coming judgment.

Cross-referencing Joel 2:1-2 and Zephaniah 1:14-15, we see that the “Day of the Lord” is a recurring biblical theme, representing not only the judgment of Babylon but also the final judgment of all unrepentant sinners. This imagery is also seen in Matthew 24:29-30, where Jesus speaks of cosmic disturbances preceding His return.

Application: The certainty of God’s judgment calls people to repentance. Just as Babylon could not escape its fate, neither can those who reject God’s grace. Christians are called to live in readiness, proclaiming the Gospel so that others may escape the coming wrath through faith in Christ.

Isaiah 13:10-13

“The stars of heaven and their constellations will not show their light. The rising sun will be darkened and the moon will not give its light. I will punish the world for its evil, the wicked for their sins. I will put an end to the arrogance of the haughty and will humble the pride of the ruthless. I will make people scarcer than pure gold, more rare than the gold of Ophir. Therefore I will make the heavens tremble; and the earth will shake from its place at the wrath of the Lord Almighty, in the day of his burning anger.”

This passage broadens the scope from Babylon to a more universal judgment. The language of celestial disruption mirrors passages like Matthew 24:29, which describe similar cosmic signs before Christ’s second coming. This shows that while Isaiah’s prophecy had an immediate fulfillment in Babylon’s fall, it also foreshadows the final judgment of the world.

Cross-referencing Revelation 6:12-14, we see the same cosmic disturbances accompanying the wrath of God at the end of the age. The emphasis on humbling the proud aligns with Proverbs 16:18, which warns that pride leads to destruction.

Application: This passage serves as a sobering reminder that earthly power and pride are temporary. No one can stand before God’s judgment without Christ. Believers should cultivate humility and live with an eternal perspective, prioritizing God’s kingdom over worldly success.

Isaiah 13:17-22 

“See, I will stir up against them the Medes, who do not care for silver and have no delight in gold. Their bows will strike down the young men; they will have no mercy on infants, nor will they look with compassion on children. Babylon, the jewel of kingdoms, the pride and glory of the Babylonians, will be overthrown by God like Sodom and Gomorrah. She will never be inhabited or lived in through all generations.”

This prophecy explicitly names the Medes as the ones who will destroy Babylon, which was fulfilled in 539 BC when the Medo-Persian Empire conquered the city. The comparison to Sodom and Gomorrah signifies total devastation.

Cross-referencing Revelation 18:2, we see a similar judgment on “Babylon the Great,” representing the sinful world system that opposes God. The theme of irreversible destruction reminds us that God’s judgments are final.

Application: The fate of Babylon warns against putting confidence in worldly power, wealth, or security. Everything apart from God will ultimately fall. Believers should invest in the eternal kingdom of Christ rather than the temporary glories of this world.

 

Theological Implications and Connection to Jesus Christ

Isaiah 13 is a prophecy of judgment against Babylon, but it also has broader theological significance in pointing to Christ and the redemptive story of the Bible. The fall of Babylon serves as a historical event that prefigures the final judgment of all wickedness, which will ultimately be fulfilled through Jesus Christ. In Revelation 18, Babylon is used as a symbol of the sinful world system that will be destroyed at Christ’s return. Just as God overthrew Babylon in Isaiah’s time, He will one day bring a final end to all human arrogance, rebellion, and idolatry through the reign of Christ.

The theme of the “Day of the Lord” in Isaiah 13 is echoed throughout Scripture as a time when God intervenes in history to execute justice. Jesus Himself spoke of a coming day of judgment in Matthew 24:29-31, where He describes cosmic disturbances similar to those found in Isaiah’s prophecy. Christ is the one who will bring ultimate justice, separating the righteous from the wicked and establishing His eternal kingdom. The destruction of Babylon also points to the reality that no human kingdom, no matter how powerful, can stand against the sovereignty of God. Jesus is the true King who will overthrow all earthly powers and establish an everlasting kingdom, as prophesied in Daniel 2:44.

Another connection to Christ is found in the theme of divine wrath and salvation. Babylon’s destruction was a result of God’s righteous judgment, yet Christ came to bear God’s wrath on behalf of sinners. Isaiah 13 warns of terror, fear, and anguish on the Day of the Lord, but Jesus endured that very wrath on the cross so that those who trust in Him could be spared. Romans 5:9 declares that believers are saved from God’s wrath through Christ. While Isaiah’s prophecy speaks of destruction, it also points to the hope of salvation in Jesus, who rescues people from the coming judgment and grants them eternal life.

How the Chapter Connects to the Father

Isaiah 13 reveals the Father’s sovereignty over history, demonstrating that He is the one who raises up and brings down nations according to His purposes. The fall of Babylon was not an accident of history but an act of divine judgment, orchestrated by God Himself. This affirms the biblical teaching that God rules over the affairs of men, as seen in Daniel 4:35, where it states that He does as He pleases with the powers of heaven and the peoples of the earth.

The chapter also displays the Father’s justice. Babylon was a nation marked by arrogance, oppression, and idolatry, and God’s judgment against it was a demonstration of His holiness. He does not tolerate sin indefinitely but holds individuals and nations accountable. This aligns with Romans 2:5-6, which states that God will repay each person according to their deeds. The judgment of Babylon serves as a warning that all who oppose God will ultimately face His justice.

Despite the severity of judgment, Isaiah 13 also reflects the Father’s redemptive plan. The fall of Babylon meant deliverance for God’s people, allowing the exiled Israelites to return to their homeland. This foreshadows the greater deliverance that God provides through Christ, freeing sinners from the bondage of sin and bringing them into His kingdom. The Father’s love is seen even in judgment, as He uses it to accomplish His greater purposes of salvation and restoration.

How the Chapter Connects to the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit’s role in Isaiah 13 is seen in the execution of God’s judgment and in His work of bringing conviction to the world. Throughout Scripture, the Spirit is involved in carrying out God’s decrees, and in this passage, He is at work in the downfall of Babylon as an instrument of divine justice. Just as the Spirit was present in the destruction of Egypt in the time of Moses, He is also active in guiding the course of history according to God’s will.

The cosmic imagery in Isaiah 13, where the sun, moon, and stars are darkened, is later echoed in Joel 2:28-31, where the outpouring of the Holy Spirit is associated with signs in the heavens. This indicates that the Spirit is deeply involved in both judgment and renewal. In the last days, the Spirit will continue to convict the world of sin, righteousness, and judgment, as Jesus declared in John 16:8. The warnings in Isaiah 13 serve as a reminder that the Spirit calls people to repentance before the final judgment arrives.

Another connection to the Holy Spirit is found in the contrast between the destruction of Babylon and the hope of restoration. While Isaiah 13 focuses on judgment, other passages in Isaiah describe the coming of the Spirit to bring renewal and peace (Isaiah 32:15-17). The Spirit’s role is not only to execute judgment but also to bring life and transformation. Those who belong to Christ are filled with the Holy Spirit, who secures them for the day of redemption (Ephesians 1:13-14).

Connection to God’s Love

Isaiah 13, though a passage of judgment, ultimately reveals God’s love in His commitment to justice and redemption. God’s love is not sentimental or passive; it is a holy love that refuses to ignore sin and evil. The judgment of Babylon shows that God cares about righteousness and that He will not allow oppression, pride, and idolatry to continue unchecked. His love is seen in the fact that He does not let wickedness go unpunished but acts to bring about justice.

At the same time, the fall of Babylon meant freedom for God’s people. The judgment that fell on their oppressors led to the restoration of Israel, demonstrating that God’s love is active in rescuing His people. This is a foreshadowing of the greater deliverance that comes through Christ. Just as God overthrew Babylon to set His people free, He has defeated sin, death, and Satan through Jesus’ victory on the cross. His love is seen in that He does not leave His people in captivity but brings them into freedom and restoration.

The ultimate expression of God’s love is that He provides a way of salvation before judgment comes. Isaiah 13 warns of a terrible day of wrath, yet throughout Scripture, God calls people to repentance so that they may be saved. 2 Peter 3:9 states that God is patient, not wanting anyone to perish but for all to come to repentance. The warning of judgment in Isaiah 13 is an expression of God’s love, urging people to turn to Him before it is too late.

Even in His wrath, God provides hope. The same God who judged Babylon offers grace to those who humble themselves and seek Him. His love is available to all who put their trust in Christ, who took upon Himself the judgment we deserve so that we could be reconciled to God. Isaiah 13 ultimately points to the depth of God’s love—His justice ensures that evil will not triumph, His mercy provides salvation, and His faithfulness guarantees that His people will be delivered.

Sermon Outline and Flow

Title: “The Fall of Babylon: God’s Sovereignty, Judgment, and Redemption”

Introduction:

Begin by asking the congregation to consider how often people place their trust in worldly powers, wealth, or security. Use an example of a once-powerful empire, corporation, or leader that fell unexpectedly. Transition by explaining that Isaiah 13 is a prophecy of the fall of Babylon, a nation that seemed invincible. Yet, God declared its destruction long before it happened. This passage reveals God’s sovereignty over history, His justice against sin, and His faithfulness to His people. Today, we will explore how this prophecy points to Christ, warns against misplaced trust, and encourages us to live in the security of God’s kingdom.

I. The Sovereignty of God Over Nations (Isaiah 13:1-5)

• Main Point: God raises up and brings down kingdoms according to His will.
• Explanation:
  Babylon was a mighty empire, yet God declares its fall before it even rises to full power. The passage begins with a vision of God summoning an army to execute His judgment. Though human forces carry out this event, it is ultimately God who is in control.
• Illustration:
  Use the example of the fall of Rome, the collapse of the Soviet Union, or a company that once dominated an industry but no longer exists. History is full of powerful entities that seemed untouchable yet crumbled unexpectedly. This demonstrates that no kingdom stands apart from God’s sovereign plan.
• Application:
  Christians should not place their security in human institutions, governments, or wealth. Instead, we are called to trust in the eternal kingdom of Christ, which will never be shaken (Daniel 2:44, Hebrews 12:28). Are we trusting in God’s rule, or are we relying on earthly systems for security?

II. The Certainty of God’s Judgment (Isaiah 13:6-16)

• Main Point: God will not allow sin, arrogance, and oppression to go unpunished.
• Explanation:
  The passage describes the terror of the “Day of the Lord,” emphasizing that human power is nothing before God’s wrath. Babylon, known for its pride and cruelty, will face devastation. The cosmic imagery of the sun and stars being darkened signals that this judgment is not just political but divine.
• Illustration:
  Use an example of a high-profile individual who seemed untouchable but faced public downfall due to corruption or immorality. Many people live as though they will never face consequences, but no one can escape divine accountability.
• Application:
  This passage is a warning against pride and unrepentant sin. Many today live with an attitude of self-sufficiency, ignoring God’s commands. Are there areas of pride or rebellion in our own lives that need to be surrendered before judgment comes? This passage calls us to humble ourselves before God, knowing that His justice is certain.

III. The Final Judgment and Christ’s Ultimate Victory (Isaiah 13:17-22)

• Main Point: Babylon’s fall foreshadows the ultimate judgment of all ungodly systems.
• Explanation:
  Isaiah specifically names the Medes as the ones who will conquer Babylon, which was fulfilled in 539 BC. However, the language of total destruction also connects to the prophetic imagery in Revelation, where Babylon represents the sinful world system that will be overthrown at Christ’s return.
• Illustration:
  Use the example of how kingdoms throughout history have risen and fallen, yet God’s kingdom remains. You might reference the rebuilding efforts after World War II or how civilizations once thought to be unstoppable are now ruins. This reminds us that only God’s kingdom is eternal.
• Application:
  Are we living for the kingdom of God, or are we consumed by the temporary things of this world? Revelation 18 calls God’s people to “come out of Babylon,” meaning we must not align our lives with the values of this fallen world. Instead, we should live with an eternal perspective, investing in what lasts forever.

Conclusion – Call to Action

Summarize the key points:

• God is sovereign over all nations and history.
• His judgment against sin is certain and cannot be avoided.
• The fall of Babylon points to the ultimate victory of Christ over all evil.

End with a personal challenge:

• Are you trusting in God’s kingdom, or are you placing your security in the things of this world?
• Have you humbled yourself before God, or are there areas of pride that need to be surrendered?
• Are you actively living for Christ, knowing that His return will bring justice and restoration?

Close with a prayer of repentance and commitment, inviting those who need to place their trust in Christ to do so.

Illustrations and Examples

1. The Fall of Empires – Use the collapse of powerful nations such as Rome or the Soviet Union as examples of how even the greatest human systems are temporary, just as Babylon was.
2. The Downfall of the Proud – Stories of leaders or celebrities who were once powerful but lost everything due to pride and corruption serve as real-life warnings of the dangers of arrogance.
3. A Financial Collapse – Many people trust in economic systems, yet financial crises reveal how quickly wealth can disappear. This mirrors the illusion of security Babylon had before its fall.
4. A Warning Before Disaster – Use the example of people who ignored warnings before a natural disaster, leading to devastation. This parallels the warning in Isaiah 13 that many ignored before Babylon’s destruction.
5. An Unshakable Foundation – Illustrate the difference between building on temporary things versus eternal things, using Jesus’ parable of the wise and foolish builders in Matthew 7:24-27.

Application for Today’s Christian

Isaiah 13 is not just a historical prophecy; it carries powerful lessons for how Christians should live today. It reminds believers that God alone is in control of history. No matter how strong a nation or leader appears, all are subject to His authority. This should give Christians peace in a chaotic world, knowing that God’s plan will prevail. Instead of being consumed by political or economic uncertainties, believers should trust in God’s unchanging kingdom.

This chapter also warns against placing confidence in human power and pride. Babylon fell because of its arrogance and idolatry. In the same way, people today are tempted to rely on wealth, status, or personal achievements. Isaiah 13 reminds us that everything apart from God will ultimately crumble. True security is found in surrendering to Christ and living under His lordship.

A key application is being prepared for the final judgment. Just as Babylon’s fall was certain, so is the coming judgment at Christ’s return. Many people live as if this world will continue indefinitely, ignoring God’s warnings. Christians are called to live in readiness, sharing the Gospel with urgency and ensuring their own lives reflect obedience to Christ.

Another practical lesson is rejecting the values of “Babylon” in our own lives. The world promotes materialism, self-exaltation, and disregard for God. Isaiah 13 calls believers to live differently, to set their hearts on the things of God rather than the fleeting pleasures of this world. This means prioritizing eternal investments—discipleship, generosity, and faithfulness to God’s commands.

Finally, Isaiah 13 calls Christians to trust in Christ’s ultimate victory. The prophecy against Babylon foreshadows the downfall of all evil and the establishment of God’s perfect rule. No matter how dark the world may seem, believers can take comfort in knowing that Christ will triumph. This should fill us with hope and motivate us to live boldly for Him, knowing that our labor for the kingdom is never in vain.

Isaiah 13 is a call to trust in God’s sovereignty, to reject the pride and corruption of this world, and to live with an eternal perspective. It challenges believers to remain faithful, to proclaim the Gospel boldly, and to rest in the certainty that God’s kingdom will stand forever.

Reflection Questions

1. Isaiah 13 shows that God is sovereign over nations and history. How does this truth give you confidence in uncertain times? Are there areas of your life where you struggle to trust God’s control?
2. Babylon’s downfall was caused by its pride and arrogance. Are there areas in your life where pride may be leading you away from fully depending on God? How can you cultivate humility before Him?
3. The passage describes the “Day of the Lord” as a time of judgment and reckoning. How does knowing that God’s justice is certain impact the way you live today?
4. Babylon trusted in its wealth, power, and military strength, but it was ultimately destroyed. Where do you place your security—God’s eternal kingdom or temporary things like money, status, or possessions?
5. The fall of Babylon meant deliverance for God’s people. How has God used difficult circumstances in your life to bring about His greater purposes?
6. Read Isaiah 13:1-5. What does this passage teach about God’s ability to raise up and bring down nations? How does this challenge the way we view world events today?