This chapter is a prophesy against Jerusalem, God’s chosen people. It may seem odd that they have a similar fate to their pagan neighbors, however, it’s because they look and act (sin) just like them.
“…and you counted the houses of Jerusalem, and you broke down the houses to fortify the wall. You made a reservoir between the two walls for the water of the old pool. But you did not look to him who did it, or see him who planned it long ago. In that day the Lord God of hosts called for weeping and mourning, for baldness and wearing sackcloth; and behold, joy and gladness, killing oxen and slaughtering sheep, eating flesh and drinking wine.” (v10-13a)
Have you ever observed the stubbornness of a child who refuses help and adamantly states “I’ll do it myself!”? That’s the same attitude the Jews exhibit here, ignoring God, and acting out of their own strength / wisdom. Just like a defiant child, their efforts are bound to be in vain because God has withdrawn His hand of protection due to their utter rebellion. Not only do they rebel, they foolishly celebrate while blindly heading into destruction.
I’m not sure about your experiences, though pretty much every time I’ve sidelined God and defiantly acted on my own things went horribly wrong. The couple of times that were not a total train wreck, I was still far less successful than I had imagined.
I encourage us to humble our hearts before our Lord God. He will fight our difficult battles for us, and protect us, according to His promises. All we need to do is admit He is God, He is ultimately in control, and we are not. By choosing humble obedience we can call upon God’s mercy – otherwise we’re subject to destruction for our rebellion just like Israel and their neighbors were.
Father God, our Merciful and Gracious Lord, we throw ourselves at Your feet. We have sinned and rebelled greatly, and humbly ask for Your forgiveness. We acknowledge that Your ways are far higher than our foolish ways, and we cannot save ourselves no matter how clever we think we are. Jesus, You are the Mighty One who saves. Please accept our humble plea, forgive our sin, and lead us in Your ways, from this moment on, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training