Forever Home in the Eternal Family of God

A Daily Devotional for the Family of God by Kenton Cheek

16 July 2024

Reading From Isaiah 18-22

“In that day there will be a highway from Egypt to Assyria. The Assyrians will go to Egypt and the Egyptians to Assyria. The Egyptians and Assyrians will worship together. In that day Israel will be the third, along with Egypt and Assyria, a blessingon the earth. The Lord Almighty will bless them, saying, ‘Blessed be Egypt my people, Assyria my handiwork, and Israel my inheritance.’”

–Isaiah 19:23-25

     When we view the ancient nation of Israel through the lens of geopolitical history, one might wonder about the extravagant and magnificent promises Yahweh made concerning their national importance and destiny.  In the grand scheme of things, they were and always have been a tiny nation and even still today they are a little Jewish island in a massive sea of Arab and Islamic nations.  This passage highlights the strategic geographic position of the Promised Land in the Middle East. 

     Israel is placed on a narrow strip of land that resembles a hinge between the landmasses of Eurasia and Africa.  They are located at one end of the Fertile Crescent so that most overland travel between the powerhouses of Egypt and Cush to Assyria, Babylon and the rest of the known ancient world was conveniently through the Land of Canaan.  This overland route as well as the sea ports brought trade to Israel.

     The British Empire was the largest the world has ever known and no economic or military power has ever rivaled the current might of the United States and so one may wonder what became of God’s promises to Israel for greatness.  Keep in mind that God does not measure greatness in the same way humans do. If we consider spiritual influence, Yahweh blessed the entire world through this tiny nation through His Word and by His Spirit.  Through Abraham’s Seed, Jesus Christ, all nations have been blessed. 

     Whatever situation you find yourself in, wherever you live, whatever career path you’re taking, brighten the corner where you are.  Grow where you’re planted.  You’re there for a reason.  Make the most of every opportunity to share the love and message of Jesus.  You are uniquely positioned by God for such a time as this. 

“God, thank You for where I am right now.  My situation might not be ideal, but I look around and it isn’t difficult to find opportunities to share Your spiritual bounty with others.  I pray for the courage it takes to open my heart to people.  May my brothers and sisters in the faith flourish wherever they find themselves.  Thank You for Your provision in the lives of Your children.  In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.”

But I have raised you upfor this very purpose, that I might show you my power and that my name might be proclaimed in all the earth.

–Exodus 9:16