DISDAINING THE WORD

The prophets and priests in Ephraim and Jerusalem are drunk because of excessive wine and alcohol consumption. As a result, not only their paths are staggering and stumbling. Furthermore, their minds are confused, unable to understand the visions given by God. The priests are no longer able to make decisions on matters brought before them.

Worse yet, in their drunkenness, they disdain the message of the Lord conveyed by Isaiah. As if it were just boring and childish nonsense. In the end, because they reject the word, the Lord will speak through a foreign language (the invading Assyrian nation). The word that should bring relief and rest will be turned into punishment and judgment. They will be forced to learn through the punishment of a foreign nation.

This is the importance of humility in receiving the proclamation of God's word. Even though the word of God may seem too simple and repetitive to us, it doesn't mean we can disdain it. Step by step, guideline after guideline is continued with another guideline to strengthen further. The rules of righteousness are added with the rules of justice, the rules of justice are added with the rules of love. Thus, we are not burdened too heavily in learning the word. Simple stages and repetition techniques also make it easier for us to understand truly according to the purpose and will of God. This correct understanding is our provision to declare every word of God in our daily lives. --EBL/www.renunganharian.net