Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical narrative, the concept of trust is a recurring theme, often juxtaposed between the righteous reliance on God and the wicked's dependence on earthly alliances. The Scriptures provide numerous examples and warnings against placing trust in human strength, political alliances, or material wealth, which are seen as fleeting and unreliable compared to the steadfastness of God.Biblical Examples and Warnings 1. Isaiah's Prophecies: The prophet Isaiah frequently admonished the people of Israel for their reliance on foreign powers rather than on God. In Isaiah 31:1 , it is written, "Woe to those who go down to Egypt for help, who rely on horses, who trust in the abundance of chariots and in the great strength of horsemen, but do not look to the Holy One of Israel or seek help from the LORD." This passage highlights the futility of trusting in military might and foreign alliances instead of seeking divine assistance. 2. The Fall of Samaria: The Northern Kingdom of Israel, often referred to as Samaria, fell into the trap of trusting in political alliances. Hosea 7:11 describes Ephraim as "a dove, easily deceived and senseless—now calling to Egypt, now turning to Assyria." This vacillation between alliances with powerful neighbors ultimately led to their downfall, as they neglected their covenant with God. 3. Judah's Reliance on Egypt: Similarly, the Kingdom of Judah sought security through alliances with Egypt. Jeremiah 2:18 questions, "Now what will you gain by traveling along the road to Egypt to drink the waters of the Nile?" This rhetorical question underscores the futility and danger of seeking security in earthly powers rather than in God. 4. The Example of King Ahaz: King Ahaz of Judah provides a personal example of misplaced trust. In 2 Kings 16:7-9 , Ahaz sought the help of the Assyrian king Tiglath-Pileser III, sending him silver and gold from the temple of the LORD. This alliance brought temporary relief but ultimately led to greater subjugation and idolatry. Theological Implications The biblical narrative consistently portrays the trust of the wicked in earthly alliances as a form of idolatry and rebellion against God. Such trust is seen as a rejection of God's sovereignty and a failure to recognize His power and provision. Psalm 20:7 contrasts this misplaced trust with the faith of the righteous: "Some trust in chariots and others in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God." Consequences of Misplaced Trust The consequences of trusting in earthly alliances are depicted as dire and inevitable. Proverbs 11:28 warns, "He who trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous will thrive like foliage." The Scriptures emphasize that reliance on human strength and alliances leads to downfall and destruction, while trust in God results in security and prosperity. Call to Trust in God Throughout the Bible, there is a consistent call for God's people to place their trust in Him alone. Jeremiah 17:5-7 contrasts the cursed man who trusts in mankind with the blessed man who trusts in the LORD. This passage serves as a reminder of the blessings that come from faithfulness to God and the perils of relying on human alliances. In summary, the biblical perspective on the trust of the wicked in earthly alliances serves as a cautionary tale, urging believers to place their confidence in God rather than in the transient and unreliable powers of the world. Torrey's Topical Textbook Isaiah 30:2That walk to go down into Egypt, and have not asked at my mouth; to strengthen themselves in the strength of Pharaoh, and to trust in the shadow of Egypt! Torrey's Topical Textbook Ezekiel 17:15 Library Third Sunday after Trinity Humility, Trust, Watchfulness ... Letter xviii. Marriage. The Poetical Books (Including Also Ecclesiastes and Canticles). The Axe at the Root --A Testimony against Puseyite Idolatry The Historical Books. The Temples and the Gods of Chaldaea Question Lxxxiii of Prayer The Medes and the Second Chaldaean Empire Answer to Eunomius' Second Book . Resources What does it mean to trust in Jesus? | GotQuestions.orgHow can I learn to trust in the faithfulness of God? | GotQuestions.org How could Job say, “Though He slay me, I will trust in Him”? | GotQuestions.org Trust: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Trust of Saints Is in the Mercy of God Trust of Saints Is in the Word of God Trust of Saints Is: Despised by the Wicked Trust of Saints Is: Grounded on the Covenant Trust of Saints Is: Not in Carnal Weapons Trust of Saints Is: Not in the Flesh Trust of Saints Is: Not in Themselves Trust of Saints Is: Strong in the Prospect of Death Trust of Saints Is: Through Christ Trust of Saints Is: Unalterable Trust of the Wicked is in Earthly Alliances Trust of the Wicked is in Falsehood Trust of the Wicked is in Idols Trust of the Wicked is in Their own Heart Trust of the Wicked is in Their own Righteousness Trust of the Wicked is in Vanity Trust of the Wicked is in Wealth Trust of the Wicked is not in God Trust of the Wicked is Vain and Delusive Trust of the Wicked: Israelites Trust of the Wicked: Sennacherib Trust of the Wicked: Shall be Destroyed Trust of the Wicked: Shall Make Them Ashamed Trust of the Wicked--Illustrated Trust: Blessedness of Placing, in God Trust: Encouragements to Former Deliverances Trust: Encouragements to The Care of God for Us Trust: Encouragements to The Everlasting Strength of God Trust: Encouragements to The Goodness of God Trust: Encouragements to The Loving-Kindness of God Trust: Encouragements to The Rich Bounty of God Trust: God is the True Object of Trust: Leads to Being Compassed With Mercy Trust: Leads to Deliverance from Enemies Trust: Leads to Enjoyment of all Temporal and Spiritual Blessings Trust: Leads to Enjoyment of Happiness Trust: Leads to Enjoyment of Perfect Peace Trust: Leads to Fulfilment of all Holy Desires Trust: Leads to Rejoicing in God Trust: Leads to Safety in Times of Danger Trust: Saints Plead, in Prayer Trust: should be from Youth Up Trust: should be With the Whole Heart Trust: The Fear of God Leads To Trust: The Lord Knows Those Who Have Trust: To be Accompanied by Doing Good Related Terms |
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