To Whom Will We Listen?

O. T. #1617  "To Whom Will WE Listen?"
Jan. 31, 2020
Isaiah 36-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

Opinions are a dime a dozen. Listening to the wrong advice can get us into trouble. We need discernment as to whom we will listen and follow. Here are some answers.

We learned previously how it can be a blessing when the enemies attack us, whenever it drives us to God. We can be assured that God's power is stronger than everything.
Assyria was the enemy of Judah. The king of Assyria, Sennacherib, sent Rabshakeh means cup bearer), to deliver a message to the 3 messengers from King Hezekiah.
It was a challenge in the form of some questions. (We would do well to answer them for our self.) I have tried to modernize them:

• What are you trusting in that makes you so confident? 
• Do you think that mere words can substitute for skill and strength?
• Who are you counting on, that you have rebelled against me?
• Isn't your trust in the LORD pointless?
• How will your (little faith) result in victory against the smallest temptation?
• Isn't this trial sent by God to destroy you?
• Are you going to let a sermon or study direct you?
• Do you think it can't get worse for you and your family?
• What makes you think the LORD can rescue you from this problem?

Even with all the questions from the enemy, King Hezekiah told the people to not give an answer.
We don't have to get into an argument with unbelievers or the devil. Our answer is found in verse 7, which was meant to jeer the people-We are trusting in the LORD our God!

1 Peter 5:6-7 says it well, Humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety (cares) upon Him because He cares for you.

Some trust in chariots, and some in horses: but we will remember the name of the LORD our God. (Psalm 20:7)

In what or whom are we trusting?


LET IT GROW

Isn't it clear that Hezekiah had been assuring his people of God's ability to deliver them?
In verse 15, a cupbearer told the people to not let Hezekiah:

• deceive them (verse 14);
• persuade you (verse 15);
• speak and they listen to him (verse 16);
• nor mislead them (verse 18).

Christians should listen to instructions from pastors, teachers of the Word of God, and fellow believers.
Individually and personally we have to decide in our own heart whether we will trust our God in the midst of our storm, trail, problem, sorrow, or not.

LET IT GO
When in doubt, ask the Lord for wisdom.
Hear what godly people have to say.
Trust and obey, for there is no other way, to be happy in Jesus, than to trust and obey.