Overview

Isaiah 22 is a prophecy concerning the “Valley of Vision,” which refers to Jerusalem. Unlike previous chapters that pronounced judgment on surrounding nations, this prophecy focuses on the people of Judah and their misplaced trust in military strength rather than in God. The chapter describes a time of crisis when Jerusalem is under threat, possibly during the Assyrian siege by Sennacherib in 701 BC. Instead of turning to God in repentance, the people focus on fortifying their defenses, celebrating, and indulging in pleasure, showing their disregard for God’s call to humility and faith.

The prophecy condemns Jerusalem’s leadership for their failure to seek God’s guidance and for trusting in their own wisdom and resources. Shebna, a high-ranking official, is singled out for his arrogance and self-glorification. In contrast, Eliakim is introduced as a faithful servant who will be given greater authority, prefiguring Christ as the ultimate righteous ruler.

This chapter highlights the theological significance of trusting in God over human strength, the certainty of divine judgment, and the promise of a future, faithful leader. It underscores the importance of faithfulness and humility, warning that pride and self-reliance lead to downfall. The prophecy also demonstrates the inerrancy of Scripture, as its judgments and promises are fulfilled in history, affirming the authority of God’s Word.

Historical and Literary Context

Isaiah 22 is set during a time of great political instability in Judah. The most likely historical background is the Assyrian invasion under King Sennacherib in 701 BC, when the army of Assyria threatened Jerusalem. King Hezekiah took steps to strengthen the city’s defenses, including reinforcing the walls and securing water supplies (2 Chronicles 32:2-5). However, Isaiah rebukes the people for relying on their military efforts rather than repenting and turning to God.

The title “Valley of Vision” is ironic because Jerusalem was meant to be a city of spiritual insight, yet its leaders were blind to God’s will. This literary device highlights Judah’s spiritual failure. The chapter uses prophetic imagery, including scenes of celebration in the face of disaster, symbolizing the people’s arrogance and lack of concern for God’s warnings.

Shebna, an official in King Hezekiah’s court, is a key figure in this prophecy. He is condemned for his pride and self-interest, particularly for building a grand tomb for himself as a display of personal greatness. His removal from office and replacement by Eliakim demonstrates God’s judgment against corrupt leadership. This historical event also serves as a prophetic foreshadowing of Christ, the ultimate ruler who will faithfully govern God’s people.

The prophecy fits within Isaiah’s broader themes of judgment and restoration. While Isaiah 22 primarily focuses on Jerusalem’s unfaithfulness, it also points to God’s sovereign control over leadership and His plan to establish a righteous ruler. This underscores the message that human pride leads to destruction, but those who trust in God’s appointed leader will find security.

Key Themes and Doctrinal Points

One of the central themes of Isaiah 22 is trusting in God rather than in human strength. The people of Jerusalem responded to their crisis by fortifying the city instead of seeking God. This highlights the biblical principle that true security comes from faith in God rather than in military power, wealth, or personal achievements. Proverbs 3:5-6 reinforces this idea, instructing believers to trust in the Lord rather than leaning on their own understanding.

Another key theme is the consequences of ignoring God’s warnings. Instead of repenting, the people indulged in pleasure, saying, “Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die” (Isaiah 22:13). This reflects a mindset of spiritual complacency and disregard for God’s judgment. The New Testament echoes this warning in Luke 12:19-21, where Jesus condemns those who prioritize pleasure over spiritual readiness.

The chapter also emphasizes God’s sovereignty over leadership. Shebna’s removal and Eliakim’s appointment demonstrate that God determines who holds authority. This foreshadows Christ, the ultimate leader who will rule with justice and faithfulness. The imagery of Eliakim receiving the “key of the house of David” (Isaiah 22:22) is later applied to Christ in Revelation 3:7, showing that Jesus is the one with ultimate authority over God’s kingdom.

A significant doctrinal point in this chapter is the danger of pride and self-glorification. Shebna is condemned for exalting himself rather than serving God and His people. This reflects the broader biblical principle that God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6). Leadership in God’s kingdom is not about self-promotion but about faithfulness and humility before Him.

Isaiah 22 also reveals the certainty of divine judgment. The people of Jerusalem assumed that their preparations would be enough to save them, but they failed to recognize that it was God who held their fate in His hands. This chapter serves as a reminder that no amount of human effort can prevent God’s judgment when people refuse to repent. However, it also offers hope by pointing to a righteous leader who will faithfully rule, prefiguring Jesus Christ as the true and better Eliakim.

Isaiah 22 challenges believers to examine where they place their trust, to remain spiritually vigilant, and to submit to God’s chosen leadership. It warns against the dangers of self-reliance and pride while affirming that God’s plans will prevail.

Verse-by-Verse Analysis

Isaiah 22:1

“A prophecy against the Valley of Vision: What troubles you now, that you have all gone up on the roofs?”

The phrase “Valley of Vision” is ironic because Jerusalem, the city where God revealed His will to His people, was spiritually blind. Instead of turning to God in their crisis, the people were focused on their own preparations and celebrations. The image of people gathering on their rooftops suggests a scene of panic or misguided celebration, possibly watching the approaching enemy forces.

Application: Many people today claim to have spiritual insight yet remain blind to God’s warnings. Are we truly seeking God’s guidance, or are we trusting in our own wisdom and efforts? Proverbs 3:5-6 reminds us to trust in the Lord rather than leaning on our own understanding.

Isaiah 22:2-3

“You town so full of commotion, you city of tumult and revelry. Your slain were not killed by the sword, nor did they die in battle. All your leaders have fled together; they have been captured without using the bow. All you who were caught were taken prisoner together, having fled while the enemy was still far away.”

This passage describes the chaos in Jerusalem. The city is full of revelry, possibly because the people believed their fortifications would keep them safe. However, Isaiah reveals that many will be taken captive, not because they fought bravely, but because they fled. This could refer to an event such as Sennacherib’s siege in 701 BC, where some leaders tried to escape rather than defend the city.

Application: Relying on worldly security leads to false confidence. Many people place their trust in financial stability, military power, or human wisdom, but none of these can provide true security apart from God. Psalm 127:1 declares, “Unless the Lord watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain.”

Isaiah 22:4 

“Therefore I said, ‘Turn away from me; let me weep bitterly. Do not try to console me over the destruction of my people.’”

Isaiah deeply mourns the coming judgment on Jerusalem. Unlike the people, who are celebrating or ignoring God’s warnings, Isaiah understands the gravity of the situation. His grief reflects God’s own sorrow over His people’s rebellion.

Application: Do we grieve over sin and its consequences, or do we ignore the reality of God’s judgment? Jesus wept over Jerusalem in Luke 19:41-44 because He knew the city would reject Him and suffer destruction. We should have the same heart of compassion for those who are lost.

Isaiah 22:5-7

“The Lord, the LORD Almighty, has a day of tumult and trampling and terror in the Valley of Vision, a day of battering down walls and of crying out to the mountains.”

The “day of the Lord” is a theme throughout Scripture, referring to times of divine judgment. Jerusalem’s walls will be battered down, showing that their military defenses will not save them. The reference to “crying out to the mountains” suggests desperation, as people look anywhere for help but do not turn to God.

Application: When we face trials, do we cry out to God, or do we look for human solutions? Isaiah 55:6 urges us to seek the Lord while He may be found and call upon Him while He is near.

Isaiah 22:8-11

“The Lord stripped away the defenses of Judah, and you looked in that day to the weapons in the Palace of the Forest. You saw that the walls of the City of David were broken through in many places; you stored up water in the Lower Pool. You counted the buildings in Jerusalem and tore down houses to strengthen the wall. You built a reservoir between the two walls for the water of the Old Pool, but you did not look to the One who made it, or have regard for the One who planned it long ago.”

This passage condemns the people for placing their trust in their own preparations rather than in God. The “Palace of the Forest” refers to an armory, and the description of storing water suggests efforts to survive a siege. While these preparations were not inherently wrong, their fatal mistake was failing to seek the Lord.

Application: It is not wrong to make wise plans, but if we trust in our own efforts rather than in God, we will fail. Many today rely on financial planning, career advancement, or self-sufficiency but forget that God is the one who sustains them. Proverbs 16:9 reminds us that “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.”

Isaiah 22:12-14

“The Lord, the LORD Almighty, called you on that day to weep and to wail, to tear out your hair and put on sackcloth. But see, there is joy and revelry, slaughtering of cattle and killing of sheep, eating of meat and drinking of wine! ‘Let us eat and drink,’ you say, ‘for tomorrow we die!’ The LORD Almighty has revealed this in my hearing: ‘Till your dying day this sin will not be atoned for,’ says the Lord, the LORD Almighty.”

God called the people to repentance, but instead, they indulged in pleasure and fatalism. The phrase “Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die” represents a mindset of ignoring the reality of judgment. Paul quotes this phrase in 1 Corinthians 15:32 to contrast those who live for earthly pleasures with those who live in light of eternity.

Application: Ignoring God’s call to repentance leads to disaster. Many people today chase after temporary pleasures, believing life has no ultimate purpose. Jesus warns in Luke 12:19-20 that those who live for pleasure without seeking God are fools. True joy is found in living for Christ.

Isaiah 22:15-19 

“This is what the Lord, the LORD Almighty, says: ‘Go, say to this steward, to Shebna the palace administrator: What are you doing here and who gave you permission to cut out a grave for yourself here, hewing your grave on the height and chiseling your resting place in the rock? Beware, the LORD is about to take firm hold of you and hurl you away, you mighty man. He will roll you up tightly like a ball and throw you into a large country. There you will die, and there the chariots you were so proud of will become a disgrace to your master’s house. I will depose you from your office, and you will be ousted from your position.’”

Shebna was a high official who used his position for personal glory. Instead of serving the people, he built an elaborate tomb for himself, showing his arrogance. Because of his pride, God would remove him from power and cast him into exile.

Application: Leadership is a responsibility, not a means for personal gain. God opposes the proud but exalts the humble (James 4:6). Leaders in the church and in society should seek to serve rather than glorify themselves.

Isaiah 22:20-25 

“In that day I will summon my servant, Eliakim son of Hilkiah. I will clothe him with your robe and fasten your sash around him and hand your authority over to him. He will be a father to those who live in Jerusalem and to the people of Judah. I will place on his shoulder the key to the house of David; what he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open.”

Eliakim replaces Shebna as a faithful leader. The “key to the house of David” signifies authority. In Revelation 3:7, Jesus is described as the one who holds the key of David, meaning He has ultimate authority over God’s kingdom.

Application: Christ is the true and righteous ruler. Unlike Shebna, He does not seek His own glory but serves His people. Those who trust in Him will have eternal security, for what He opens, no one can shut.

Isaiah 22 warns against pride, self-reliance, and ignoring God’s call to repentance. It points to Christ as the ultimate leader who brings security and salvation to all who trust in Him.

Theological Implications and Connection to Jesus Christ

Isaiah 22 reveals the failure of human leadership and the certainty of God’s judgment, ultimately pointing to Jesus Christ as the true and righteous ruler. The chapter contrasts two leaders: Shebna, who represents pride, self-reliance, and corruption, and Eliakim, who symbolizes a faithful servant appointed by God. This foreshadows Jesus as the ultimate fulfillment of God’s plan for righteous leadership. The imagery of Eliakim receiving the “key to the house of David” (Isaiah 22:22) is later applied directly to Christ in Revelation 3:7, where He is declared to have ultimate authority. This connection affirms Jesus as the sovereign King who alone has power over salvation, opening the door to eternal life for those who trust in Him.

The people’s failure to seek God during their time of crisis reflects the human tendency to trust in earthly security rather than divine provision. This parallels the rejection of Jesus by the Jewish leaders, who sought political and military solutions rather than embracing the Messiah. Just as Jerusalem relied on its fortifications instead of repenting, many in Jesus’ day sought a political savior rather than the suffering servant prophesied in Isaiah 53. Jesus calls His followers to forsake human self-sufficiency and place their faith in Him alone, echoing Isaiah’s warning that worldly solutions will ultimately fail.

The phrase “Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die” (Isaiah 22:13) represents a fatalistic mindset that rejects repentance in favor of indulgence. The Apostle Paul quotes this verse in 1 Corinthians 15:32 to contrast it with the hope of resurrection through Christ. Unlike those who live only for the present, Jesus calls believers to an eternal perspective, warning against spiritual complacency and urging them to be ready for His return (Matthew 24:42-44). The chapter serves as a reminder that ultimate security is found not in human efforts, wealth, or military strength but in Christ, the King who will reign forever.

Connection to the Father

Isaiah 22 demonstrates the Father’s sovereignty over human affairs, showing that He is the one who raises up leaders and brings them down according to His will. Shebna’s downfall and Eliakim’s appointment reflect the Father’s divine authority in establishing and removing rulers. This truth is affirmed in Daniel 2:21, which declares that God “deposes kings and raises up others.” The Father is not passive in human history but actively governs nations, ensuring that His purposes are fulfilled.

The chapter also reveals the Father’s righteous judgment. The people of Jerusalem were given opportunities to repent, yet they chose to trust in their own strength. As a result, God declared that their sin would not be atoned for until judgment was carried out (Isaiah 22:14). This highlights the Father’s justice—He is patient but will not overlook unrepentant sin. However, this judgment is always part of a greater redemptive plan, pointing forward to Christ, through whom true atonement is provided.

The Father’s ultimate purpose is to establish a leader who will faithfully serve His people. The removal of Shebna and the appointment of Eliakim foreshadow the coming of Jesus, the perfect servant-King. Unlike human rulers who fail, Jesus is the one whom the Father has chosen to rule with justice and righteousness. The Father’s plan for salvation is not based on human power but on His appointed leader, Jesus Christ, who reigns with all authority.

Connection to the Holy Spirit

Isaiah 22 reflects the work of the Holy Spirit in revealing the dangers of self-reliance and calling people to repentance. The people’s misplaced trust in their own defenses, rather than seeking God, is a reminder that without the conviction of the Holy Spirit, humanity naturally turns to earthly solutions instead of relying on the Lord. The Spirit works to open hearts and minds to recognize their need for God, calling people to forsake worldly security and depend on Him.

The role of the watchman in Isaiah 22 aligns with the Spirit’s work in warning believers and guiding them in truth. The watchman was responsible for observing danger and sounding the alarm, much like how the Holy Spirit convicts people of sin (John 16:8) and leads them into repentance. Those who heed the Spirit’s warnings will turn to God, while those who ignore them will face the consequences of spiritual blindness.

Eliakim’s appointment symbolizes the Spirit’s role in anointing and empowering God’s chosen servants. Just as Eliakim was given the “key to the house of David,” which signified divine authority, Jesus was anointed by the Spirit to establish God’s kingdom (Luke 4:18-19). The Spirit continues to work in believers, empowering them to live under Christ’s lordship and to faithfully steward the authority given to them as representatives of His kingdom.

Connection to God’s Love

Isaiah 22 reveals God’s love through His warnings, discipline, and ultimate provision of a faithful leader. Even though the people of Jerusalem refused to turn to Him, He did not abandon them without warning. His call to repentance, though ignored, was an expression of His desire for them to return to Him rather than face destruction. This aligns with 2 Peter 3:9, which says that God is patient, not wanting anyone to perish but for all to come to repentance. His warnings are acts of love, urging people to seek Him before judgment falls.

The grief expressed by Isaiah in verse 4 reflects God’s own sorrow over the rebellion of His people. Just as Isaiah wept for Jerusalem, Jesus wept over the city in Luke 19:41-44, lamenting that they had rejected God’s offer of peace. God’s love is not indifferent; He longs for people to turn to Him and avoid the consequences of sin. His judgment is not a sign of cruelty but of His commitment to justice and righteousness.

The contrast between Shebna and Eliakim demonstrates God’s love in appointing faithful leaders for His people. While corrupt leadership brings harm, God raises up righteous leaders to care for His people. This ultimately points to Jesus, the Good Shepherd, who lays down His life for the sheep (John 10:11). The giving of the “key to the house of David” to Eliakim foreshadows the love of Christ, who alone has the authority to grant access to God’s kingdom. His rule is not one of selfish ambition, but of sacrificial love, providing security and salvation for all who trust in Him.

Even in the midst of judgment, God provides hope. The judgment on Shebna and the appointment of Eliakim symbolize the transition from failed human leadership to divine leadership through Christ. This is an act of love, ensuring that His people are not left to suffer under unfaithful rulers. Just as Eliakim was a “peg driven into a firm place” (Isaiah 22:23), Jesus is the solid foundation upon which our faith rests. God’s love is seen in His provision of Christ, who establishes an eternal kingdom of righteousness and peace.

Isaiah 22 ultimately reveals that while human pride and self-reliance lead to destruction, God’s love provides a way of redemption through His chosen servant. His love calls people to repentance, warns them of judgment, and provides security in Christ. Those who trust in Him will find true peace and salvation, anchored in the unshakable love of God.

Sermon Outline and Flow

Title: “Where is Your Trust? Lessons from the Valley of Vision”

Introduction:

Begin with a question: Where do people place their trust today? Many look to financial security, political systems, or personal abilities rather than relying on God. Introduce Isaiah 22 as a passage that exposes misplaced trust in human strength rather than in the Lord. Describe how the people of Jerusalem fortified their city but ignored God’s call to repentance, highlighting the relevance of this passage to modern life.

Transition: Today, we will explore three key lessons from Isaiah 22—how misplaced trust leads to destruction, how God calls us to repentance, and how Jesus Christ is the ultimate leader we must follow.

Main Points:

1. The Danger of Misplaced Trust: Relying on Human Strength Instead of God (Isaiah 22:1-11)

Isaiah condemns Jerusalem for placing their hope in their military fortifications rather than seeking God. The people strengthened their walls, stored up water, and prepared for battle, but they ignored the One who could truly save them. Despite clear warnings, they refused to trust in God.

• Application: Today, people rely on money, careers, or government policies for security, yet all of these can fail. Psalm 20:7 reminds us, “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.” Christians must evaluate whether they are trusting in temporary solutions or in God’s eternal promises.
• Illustration: Share the story of the Titanic. It was considered “unsinkable,” yet it sank on its maiden voyage because of human overconfidence. This parallels how people often believe they are secure in their own strength, only to face disaster when trials come.

2. Ignoring God’s Call to Repentance Leads to Judgment (Isaiah 22:12-14)

God called the people of Jerusalem to repentance, but instead of humbling themselves, they chose a lifestyle of indulgence and fatalism, saying, “Let us eat and drink, for tomorrow we die.” This mindset led to their downfall. Isaiah warns that when people harden their hearts to God’s call, judgment is inevitable.

• Application: Many people today ignore God’s warnings, choosing comfort and pleasure over repentance. Jesus spoke of this in Luke 12:19-20, warning that those who live for pleasure without considering their souls are fools. Christians must regularly examine their hearts, repenting of sin and aligning their lives with God’s will.
• Illustration: Compare this to ignoring a doctor’s warning. A patient who refuses to change an unhealthy lifestyle, despite multiple warnings, will eventually suffer the consequences. In the same way, ignoring God’s call to repentance leads to destruction.

3. God Appoints a Faithful Leader: Christ as the Ultimate Authority (Isaiah 22:15-25)

Shebna, a corrupt leader, was removed because of his pride and self-glorification, while Eliakim was appointed as a faithful servant. Eliakim’s role, carrying the “key to the house of David,” foreshadows Jesus, who holds the ultimate authority over God’s kingdom (Revelation 3:7). Unlike human leaders who fail, Jesus is the righteous King who provides true security.

• Application: Christians must recognize that only Christ has the power to open the door to eternal life. Rather than following worldly leaders or self-made plans, believers should fully submit to Jesus as their Lord and King. This means seeking His will daily through Scripture and prayer.
• Illustration: Share an example of a trusted leader who failed versus one who remained faithful. A CEO who prioritizes personal gain over employees will eventually fall, but a servant leader who sacrifices for others earns lasting respect. This reflects the difference between Shebna and Eliakim and ultimately points to Jesus, the perfect servant-leader.

Conclusion & Call to Action:

Summarize the three key points: trusting in human strength leads to failure, ignoring God’s call to repentance invites judgment, and only Jesus is the true and faithful leader who brings security. Challenge the congregation to examine their hearts. Are they trusting in temporary things rather than in God? Are they responding to God’s call to repentance or ignoring it? Are they submitting fully to Christ’s authority?

End with a call to action:

• For unbelievers, the invitation is to trust in Christ alone for salvation.
• For believers, the challenge is to repent of misplaced trust and realign their lives with God’s will.
• For leaders, the encouragement is to follow Christ’s example of servant leadership, seeking God’s kingdom rather than personal gain.

Close with prayer, asking God to help His people place their trust in Him alone and to walk faithfully under Christ’s rule.

Illustrations and Examples

1. The Illusion of Security

A wealthy businessman invested all his savings in what seemed like a fail-proof stock market plan. Overnight, the market crashed, and he lost everything. This is a real-world example of misplaced trust in material wealth, just as Jerusalem trusted in its walls rather than in God. True security comes from faith in Christ, not in financial success.

2. Ignoring Warnings Leads to Disaster

A town was repeatedly warned about an approaching hurricane, yet many residents ignored evacuation orders, believing their homes were strong enough to withstand the storm. When disaster struck, those who ignored the warnings suffered the most. This mirrors Jerusalem’s refusal to repent, despite God’s clear warnings. Those who ignore God’s call to repentance today face the same spiritual danger.

3. The Difference Between a Corrupt Leader and a Servant Leader

A company CEO who embezzled money and sought personal fame was eventually exposed and fired. In contrast, a selfless leader who prioritized his employees’ well-being and integrity was honored and respected. This comparison reflects Shebna and Eliakim and ultimately points to Christ, the perfect leader who serves rather than seeks self-glory.

Application for Today’s Christian

Isaiah 22 teaches that misplaced trust leads to failure. Many people today put their confidence in money, careers, relationships, or government systems rather than in God. But like Jerusalem’s fortifications, all earthly securities can fail. Believers must ensure that their trust is firmly in the Lord, seeking Him first in all things. Proverbs 3:5-6 calls us to trust in God rather than in our own understanding.

Repentance is necessary for spiritual growth. The people of Jerusalem ignored God’s call to humble themselves and instead indulged in pleasure, assuming that life was short and there was no need to change. Many people today have the same mindset, living only for the moment rather than preparing for eternity. Jesus calls His followers to live in a state of repentance and readiness, knowing that true joy comes from obedience to Him (Luke 13:3).

Leadership in God’s kingdom is about service, not self-promotion. Shebna was removed because he sought his own glory, while Eliakim was given authority because of his faithfulness. Jesus, the ultimate leader, calls His followers to lead through humility and service (Mark 10:42-45). Whether in ministry, work, or family, Christians must adopt a servant’s heart rather than seeking status or power.

Christ is the only true source of security. The key given to Eliakim ultimately points to Jesus, who alone holds the key to salvation and eternal life. Many people search for meaning and hope in temporary things, but only Christ can provide lasting security. Revelation 3:7 confirms that Jesus opens doors that no one can shut. Those who place their faith in Him will never be put to shame.

Isaiah 22 challenges believers to evaluate their priorities. Are they seeking security in the world or in God? Are they responding to His call to repentance or ignoring it? Are they submitting to Christ as their leader? The chapter serves as a warning but also as an invitation to trust in God’s faithfulness and to live under the rule of His chosen King, Jesus Christ. Those who place their trust in Him will stand firm, even when everything else falls.

Reflection Questions 

1. Where is your trust? – Isaiah 22 shows how the people of Jerusalem placed their trust in military fortifications rather than in God. What are some areas in your life where you might be relying more on human strength, financial security, or personal success instead of fully trusting in the Lord? How can you shift your dependence to Him?
2. Are you spiritually awake? – The people in Isaiah 22 ignored God’s warning and indulged in pleasure instead of repenting. Are there areas where you might be spiritually complacent? What distractions or priorities are keeping you from hearing and responding to God’s call?
3. How do you respond to crisis? – When trouble comes, do you turn to God in prayer, or do you try to fix things on your own first? How can you develop a habit of seeking God’s guidance before acting on your own understanding?
4. What does true repentance look like? – God called the people to mourn over their sin, but they chose to celebrate instead. What are some ways you can practice true repentance in your life? Are there any sins or attitudes you need to bring before God in humility?
5. Who is leading you? – Shebna represented corrupt leadership, while Eliakim symbolized faithfulness. Who or what is influencing your decisions the most? Are you following leaders who reflect Christ’s humility and righteousness, or are you drawn to worldly leadership that seeks personal gain?
6. How do you use your influence? – Everyone has some level of leadership, whether in family, work, ministry, or friendships. Are you leading in a way that honors God, like Eliakim, or are you seeking recognition and personal gain, like Shebna? How can you serve others with humility in your daily life?
7. How do you handle warnings from God? – The people of Jerusalem ignored God’s warning, assuming they had plenty of time. Have you ever experienced a time when you ignored a warning from God and later regretted it? How can you be more sensitive to His leading and correction?