Title
Do Not Plunder Nor Destroy
Scripture
Woe to you who plunder, though you have not been plundered; and you who deal treacherously, though they have not dealt treacherously with you!
(Isaiah 33:1)
Devotional
Isaiah is not saying that it is O.K. to plunder and destroy those who have plundered us. However, he is telling us that it is without question with regard to those who are not our enemies. When Israel was at war with the enemies of God, they were often instructed to take the booty and destroy the enemy. The New Covenant calls for winning over the enemy not winning the war over the enemy. Yet we do plunder and destroy those with whom we are not at war. The scriptures are clear; we do not battle against flesh and blood.(1) Nevertheless that is exactly what we do when we defame or take advantage of the goodness of another, we plunder and destroy. We plunder their friendships when we use them for personal gain. We destroy our testimonies when we do not treat others, as we would want them to treat us or as God has dealt with us.
(1) Ephesians 6:12
Text For The Day
Isaiah 33:1: Woe to you who plunder, though you have not been plundered; and you who deal treacherously, though they have not dealt treacherously with you!
Thought For The Day
It is a matter of integrity, “A rancher asked a veterinarian for some free advice. ‘I have a horse,’ he said, ‘that walks normally sometimes and limps sometimes. What shall I do.’ The veterinarian replied, ‘The next time he walks normally, sell him.’” Al Schock, “Jokes for All Occasions.”
Questions To Ponder
· Why do you think that there were times that the Lord permitted Israel to plunder its enemies, and why were there times that He did not?
· Does our text give “an” answer?
· Is there ever a time for Christians to plunder?
Morning Study Guide
Defining: “Plunder”: To take by force what is not yours, to pillage, not only goods, but lives can be plundered.
Referencing: “A distressing vision is declared to me; the treacherous dealer deals treacherously, and the plunderer plunders,” Isaiah 21:2.
Applying: Do not take what has not been given to you by God. Do not plunder the belongings or the character of others.