RTW 2023

Then at last the LORD of Heaven’s Armies   will himself be Israel’s glorious crown.He will be the pride and joy    of the remnant of his people.He will give a longing for justice    to their judges.He will give great courage    to their warriors who stand at the gates.

Isaiah 28:5-6

The consequences of Israel’s sin were coming to fruition, and I wonder if it made the Kingdom of Judah more motivated and willing to repent? (We know ultimately it didn’t, but perhaps for a time?)

• Samaria was the “wreath” of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, but they had turned to indulgence and wickedness, so it wasn’t a “pretty” wreath!
• God would be the wreath, the crown of glory and splendor for His people
• Crown: ăṭārâ  
• Diadem/wreath: ṣᵊp̄îrâ
• Spirit: rûaḥ
• Judgment, ordinance: mišpāṭ
• Significance of the city gate in ancient Israel https://www.thattheworldmayknow.com/city-gates
• “The battle at the gates” was more than a physical, military battle–it was the battle for justice and righteousness in the community of God’s people.

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Learn to do good. Seek justice. Help the oppressed. Defend the cause of orphans. Fight for the rights of widows.

Isaiah 1:17