How does Isaiah 16:14 demonstrate God's sovereignty over nations and their timelines? Text at a Glance “ But now the LORD has spoken: ‘Within three years, as a hired worker counts the years, Moab’s splendor will become contemptible, along with all her great multitude; and those who are left will be few and feeble.’ ” (Isaiah 16:14) Marks of Divine Sovereignty in Isaiah 16:14 • Precise timetable: “within three years” shows God not only foresees events but sets the clock for them. • Exact accounting: “as a hired worker counts the years” pictures day-by-day accuracy—nothing vague or approximate. • Power over national glory: Moab’s famed “splendor” is reduced at God’s word, proving He grants or removes earthly prestige (cf. Isaiah 40:17). • Control of population outcome: “survivors will be few and feeble,” revealing that even the number and strength of people rest in His hand. Supporting Scriptures • Isaiah 46:10 — “I declare the end from the beginning… ‘My purpose will stand.’ ” • Daniel 2:21 — “He changes the times and seasons; He removes kings and establishes them.” • Acts 17:26 — “He determined their appointed times and the boundaries of their lands.” • Isaiah 21:16 (parallel wording) — “Within one year, as a hired worker counts…” showing a consistent pattern of God-set deadlines. • Jeremiah 1:10 — “Appointed you over nations… to uproot and tear down, to destroy and overthrow, to build and plant.” Implications for Every Nation Today • National lifespans are not random; they unfold on God’s calendar. • Prosperity and decline are subject to His verdict, not merely to economic or military strength. • Divine warnings carry built-in deadlines; ignoring them invites the very outcomes God foretells. • History affirms His reliability—prophecies fulfilled to the day encourage trust in every remaining promise. |
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