What can we learn about God's character from Isaiah 15:5? Verse in Focus “My heart laments for Moab; her fugitives flee as far as Zoar, to Eglath-shelishiyah. For they ascend the ascent of Luhith weeping; on the way to Horonaim they raise a cry of destruction.” (Isaiah 15:5) Context Snapshot • This oracle announces impending judgment on Moab, a long-standing enemy of Israel (cf. Numbers 22–24; Isaiah 15–16). • Even while justice is being carried out, the speaker’s heart “laments.” Prophetic language lets us glimpse the Lord’s own feelings behind Isaiah’s words. What God’s Heart Reveals • Compassion that feels real sorrow even for those under judgment. • Justice that still proceeds—Moab must face consequences. • Nearness: God is not distant; He “sees” fugitives, tears, and cries on the road. • Sovereignty paired with empathy—He orders history yet grieves over suffering. Attributes Highlighted 1. Compassionate—He mourns over pain (cf. Hosea 11:8; Lamentations 3:32-33). 2. Just—He will not ignore sin (Isaiah 13:11; Romans 2:5-6). 3. Relational—Not a cold judge, but One whose “heart laments.” 4. Omniscient—He foretells specific places (Zoar, Luhith, Horonaim), proving His detailed knowledge. 5. Unchanging in moral character—Mercy and righteousness coexist without conflict (Psalm 85:10). Echoes in Other Scriptures • Ezekiel 33:11—“I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked…” • Jonah 4:10-11—God’s pity on Nineveh. • Matthew 23:37; Luke 19:41—Jesus weeping over Jerusalem. • 2 Peter 3:9—He is patient, “not wanting anyone to perish.” Living in Light of His Character • Approach Him with confidence: His justice is real, yet His compassion is equally real. • Let His heart shape ours—grieve over the lost even while standing for truth. • Proclaim salvation urgently; the Lord’s lament underscores His desire that people turn before judgment falls. |
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