What lessons can we learn from Jerusalem's actions in Isaiah 22:10? The Scene in Isaiah 22:10 “ ‘You counted the houses of Jerusalem and tore them down to strengthen the wall.’ ” What Jerusalem Did • Conducted a house-by-house survey in crisis. • Demolished private dwellings for building material. • Focused on visible defenses rather than invisible dependence on God (v. 11). Heart Issues Exposed • Self-reliance: fortifying the wall without first seeking the Lord. • Short-sightedness: sacrificing homes—the fabric of community—for quick fixes. • Misplaced security: trusting bricks and plans over the God who gave the city its walls (Psalm 127:1). Timeless Lessons for Us • Preparing is wise; trusting preparations over God is folly (Proverbs 21:31). • Shoring up outward protections while neglecting inward faith leaves us vulnerable (Jeremiah 17:5). • Our “walls” can become idols—careers, finances, relationships—if they replace reliance on the Lord. • Emergency choices reveal true priorities; crisis living exposes whether we treasure people or projects. • The end never justifies means that erode godly values; tearing down households to save a city mirrors sacrificing family life for public success. Related Scriptures Echoing the Warning • Isaiah 22:11—“but you did not look to its Maker.” • 2 Chronicles 32:7-8—Hezekiah prepares defenses yet proclaims, “with us is the LORD our God.” • Luke 12:19-21—The rich fool builds bigger barns yet loses his soul. • James 4:13-16—Planning without humble dependence is arrogance. Practical Takeaways • Make diligent plans, but submit them daily to the Lord. • Guard family and fellowship; don’t sacrifice them for temporary security. • Regularly inventory where your confidence lies—resources or Redeemer? • In every crisis, start with prayer, continue with obedience, and finish with praise when God delivers. |