Jerusalem’s Turmoil and Trust Issues (Isaiah 28-39)

In Isaiah 28–39, we move from cosmic visions to very real political and spiritual crises. Assyria is threatening from the north. Egypt seems like a tempting ally. Jerusalem’s leaders are caught between fear and pride—choosing strategies of survival instead of surrendering to the Lord. Through it all, Isaiah pleads with them to trust God alone.

This section occurs primarily during the reign of King Hezekiah (715–686 BC), overlapping with Assyria’s rise and the eventual fall of the northern kingdom of Israel (Samaria) in 722 BC. The themes are urgent, practical, and deeply relevant.

Key Themes to Watch For

False Foundations (Isaiah 28)

The leaders of Jerusalem are likened to drunkards who mock God’s message and make “covenants with death” to avoid disaster. Isaiah exposes their false sense of security and announces a better foundation: “Behold, I am laying in Zion a stone, a tested stone… whoever believes will not be in haste” (28:16). This is a messianic promise—pointing to Jesus as the true foundation for our lives.

Woe to Egypt (Isaiah 30–31)

Judah sends envoys to Egypt for help, trusting in horses and chariots instead of the Lord. Isaiah warns that Egypt will fail them. “In returning and rest you shall be saved; in quietness and in trust shall be your strength” (30:15). This contrast between human solutions and divine strength is at the heart of these chapters. We, too, are often tempted to place our trust in what looks strong rather than in God.

Hezekiah’s Faith and Failure (Isaiah 36–39)

Chapters 36–39 retell a dramatic historical moment. The Assyrian army surrounds Jerusalem, and King Hezekiah turns to the Lord in prayer. God responds by miraculously delivering the city. It’s a high point of trust. Yet immediately after, Hezekiah shows off his wealth to envoys from Babylon—opening the door to future judgment. These chapters remind us that even moments of great faith need to be followed by lasting humility.

God’s Protection and Presence

In the midst of political instability, God’s promises remain. He says, “I will rise up… Now I will be exalted” (Isaiah 33:10). Even when nations rage and leaders falter, the Lord is a sure refuge. Isaiah calls God “the stability of your times, abundance of salvation, wisdom, and knowledge” (33:6). These verses were written for a frightened people—and they still speak to us today.

What This Means for Us Today

Isaiah 28–39 confronts our own temptation to trust in what we can control. Whether it's politics, money, or personal strength, we often look to earthly solutions before we look to heaven. God’s message to Judah is His message to us: “Return to Me. Rest in Me. Trust Me.”

Even in crisis, God is more powerful than every enemy—and more faithful than every human alliance.

Point to Reflect On

As you read these chapters, ask yourself: where have I placed my confidence lately? What would it look like to make God my true foundation this week?