She Laughs. She Prays.

Babylon creates two images for Christians today. First, Babylon, the enemy of Israel, who destroyed the temple and put into captivity the Judeans who held the city of Jerusalem and second, the devil’s destructive works as in Revelation. Isaiah 13 pits the destructive purposes of Satan with those of an Almighty God. And we know who wins.

Babylon Historically

In 587, the Babylonians attacked Judah entering a ten-year war over the city of Jerusalem. Despite a good fight, the Babylonians overtook the besieged city, destroyed the temple, and made the Israelites captive. Their captivity began the Jewish diaspora or the dispersing of Jews in various communities across the Middle East, Europe, and Africa.

Moses prophesies of the dispersion of the Jews In Deuteronomy 28:25, and the historical book of 2 Kings 17:23 speaks of the Assyrians early role in capturing the Israelites. It’s not until 1948 that Israel becomes a nation, fulfilling Amos 9:14-15 and nine other prophecies,[1] and the diaspora of the Jews ends.

Babylon Spiritually

If we think about the characteristics of the devil, we can compare these to Babylon. In the Bible’s first mention of Babel, the drama (Genesis 11:9) where confusion scatters the people, we learn that the evil one is the author of confusion (James 3:16). God offers us peace (I Corinthians 14:33) and a direction (Psalm 32:8), the opposite of what Babylon offers.

Although not writing to interpret Revelation, when speaking of Babylon the greatest source is Revelation. In Revelation, Babylon is described as a prostitute (Revelation 17:1-7). So first Babylon is a woman. Women in the Bible represent people groups often (2 Corinthians 11:2, Revelations 19:7) such as the city of Zion. Verse 17:18 tells us that this woman represents a city of power. The power she holds is as one who reigns over the kings of the earth. John 12:31 calls the Satan “the ruler of this earth.” But we know that the power He has is limited, because in the same verse John says that Jesus will cast him out. We know and believe that God holds us and the world in his hands (Psalm 63:8).

Babylon (Revelation 17:4) is dressed in purple and scarlet and adorned with gold, precious stones, and pearls. The woman of valor in Proverbs 31 dresses her family in scarlet and herself wears fine linen and purple. She is called a “noble woman.” The color comparisons in this remind us of the deceptiveness of power and wealth. Babylon is a woman of nobility but also one enslaved by power and wealth. When we read about the woman in Proverbs 31, she provides for the poor and the needy. Babylon holds a cup of unclean things, abominations and sexual immorality. Babylon in every way points to a spiritually deceptive being that lures people from God.

John further explains his vision of Babylon by writing, “the waters which you saw where the prostitute sits are peoples and multitudes, and nations and languages.” So as Christians, we often battle the culture and society as a whole. This passage shows that we will be battling multitudes, nations and people from many languages.

How do we do this? First, by being Bible believing followers of Jesus Christ. Paul in Acts 17 gives us great knowledge as to how to do this. In Acts 17, Paul speaks to the people of Thessalonica who reject his message of the Savior. So, he goes to Berea. Here he finds a noble people.

“Now the Berean Jews were of more noble character than those in Thessalonica, for they received the message with great eagerness and examined the Scriptures every day to see if what Paul said was true. As a result, many of them believed, as did also a number of prominent Greek women and many Greek men.” (Acts 17:11-12, NIV)

The difference between the Thessalonians and the Berean Jews were their eagerness to examine the Scriptures and find the truth. Our key to not being deceived by Babylon or the beast, as also described in Revelations, is to be people who read and study the Bible.

In Isaiah 13, the Lord tells us additional ways to confront and fight the “burden (KJV)” of Babylon. Isaiah 13 sets up quickly the call of God for his warriors.

First, the Lord asks us to raise a standard (Isaiah 13:2). The Lord in this passage says to call to the people and encourage them in the gates. Isaiah 59:19 tells us that when the enemy comes in like a flood God raises a standard against it. Babylon sits in great waters. It comes in like a flood. We need to be prepared to raise our flag, our standard so that God can defend us.

Second, the Lord has commanded us to be prepared for battle. Much of the preparation again requires us to be spiritually ready and avail ourselves to do God’s work.

Isaiah 59:1 tells us:

“Behold, the Lord's hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear: But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear.”

Spiritual preparedness for battle includes asking God to forgive our sins and listening to his Word as well as acting on his Word. And He will cause us to know his Word, understand His Word, and defend us.

Third, the Lord calls us his “sanctified ones (Isaiah 13:3, KJV).” He continues to describe the sanctified ones as his mighty ones who rejoice in His victory. Sanctified means to be set apart as sacred, dedicated, and holy. 2 Corinthians 6:19-20 describes our bodies as temples of the Holy Ghost. We have been set apart to glorify God with our whole beings.

Fourth, the Lord calls us warriors. So not only are we raising a standard, preparing, and setting our lives apart, we need to be warriors dressed for battle and willing to enter the fight. Ephesians 6:11 tells us to put on the whole armor of God so we can stand against the wiles of the devil. It continues:

“13 Therefore, put on every piece of God’s armor so you will be able to resist the enemy in the time of evil. Then after the battle you will still be standing firm. 14 Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God’s righteousness. 15 For shoes, put on the peace that comes from the Good News so that you will be fully prepared.[e] 16 In addition to all of these, hold up the shield of faith to stop the fiery arrows of the devil.[f] 17 Put on salvation as your helmet, and take the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.”

Fifth, the Lord asks us to stand together to defeat Babylon. We need to come together as Christians from whatever nation we have been called to defeat Babylon. We are stronger together.

As God prepared Israel to defeat Babylon, as the book of Revelation shows that Babylon is defeated, we continue to work for the Lord in our places of residence, knowing that our home is heaven and the victory is already one. We can be confident of this hope. "And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation (Romans 5:4).

[1] Ezekiel 37:10-14; Isaiah 66:7-8; Ezekiel 37:21-22; Jeremiah 16:14-15; Ezekiel 4:3-6; Ezekiel 34:13; Jeremiah 31:10; Leviticus 26:3, 7-8;

Our One Year Bibles finally arrived at Bristol Bay Church, Dillingham, AK. We have decided to start on March 17, 2024, which means it will take until next March 17, 2025, to finish reading all the way through. If you asked for a soft cover copy or would like one, please see me on anytime this week or on Sunday. I have about 10 of these. You can also purchase the electronic copy on Christianbook.com The One Year Chronological Bible NLT - eBook: 9781414361628 - Christianbook.com I will have a few journals and notebooks as well in case you want one to keep your answers in to the questions below in a notebook. And/or send them to me and we can stay in contact: pastorval@bristolbay.church

For those who want to read along in your own Bible, I will publish the passages for the week in a special column to check off. I look forward to reading with you. Each week I will also send some study questions to go with your reading if you choose to use them. Reply with questions and answers. I look forward to reading God's Word with you daily.

June 30

2 Kings 16:19-20

2 Chronicles 28:26-27

Isaiah 13:1-16:14

July 1

2 Chronicles 29:3-31:21

July 2

Proverbs 25:1-29:27

July 3

Proverbs 30:1-31:31

July 4

Psalm 42:1-46:11

July 5

Psalm 47:1-49:20

Psalm 84:1-87:7

July 6

Psalm 1:1-2:12

Psalm 10:1-18

Psalm 33:1-22

Psalm 71:1-24

Psalm 91:1-16

July 7

Psalm 92:1-97:12

June 30

1) In Isaiah 13:1-16:14, God speaks of needing a people prepared for war? How can we be prepared for the spiritual war we face on earth?

2) Who are the Israelites fighting against in this passage?

July 1

1) There are several people mentioned in 2 Chronicles 29:3-31:21. Give one sentence on each of the people in this reading. The sentence should connect the people to the events in the passage.

King Hezekiah-

Levites

Aaron

Gad

Nathan

King David

July 2

Most of Proverbs was written by King Solomon and recognized as a book during his days. Proverbs 25-29 are associated with the revival happening during the time of King Hezekiah and his scribes 200 years later. King Hezekiah ordered the scribes to search the Scripture. As a result, they found or collected these additional writings that are now associated with Proverbs.

1) Proverbs 25:21-22 How do these verses tell you to treat your enemies and why?

2) Proverbs 26:17-18 What do we learn about "lying" in this passage?

3) Proverbs 27 What does this passage say about counsel and advice?

4) Proverbs 28:11 Speaks of discernment. Consider other verses on discernment. I Corinthians 2:14; 5) Proverbs 3:17; Romans 12:2; I John 4:1

6) Proverbs 29:18 Compare various versions of this verse. Does one give you a better understanding of the verse? What do the verses say to you.

KJV-Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he.

AMP-Where there is no vision [no revelation of God and His word], the people are unrestrained; But happy and blessed is he who keeps the law [of God].

RSV-Where there is no prophecy the people cast off restraint, but blessed is he who keeps the law.

July 3

1) When I read Proverbs 30:1-31:31, I am inclined to stop and consider Proverbs 30:4. I love the descriptive words throughout. The end of this verse though asks "What is his name, and what is his son's name? Surely you know!" There are at least two views on the ending of this verse. Look online for the answers and consider them both.

2) Proverbs 30:8-9 give a view on what is the best way to live financially. What do you think?

3) Proverbs 31 describes a godly woman who gives help and safety to her family. Is there an area you can relate to? Is there an area that you do well in and one that you would like to improve? Is this Proverbs a valid one for women today to reference?

July 4

1) Compare Psalm 44 to Romans 8:34-38. Give at least one comparison.

2) Why is Psalm 45 called a Messianic passage?

July 5

1) These Psalms are written by the descendants of Korah. If you do a quick study of Korah, you will notice both God's judgment and God's grace. Korah is known for his rebellion but his family for their faithfulness. The prophet Samuel is descendent of Korah.

2) All the Psalms in this reading were written by a group of Levites. Levites "waited on the Lord" in the temple. They took care of the house of the Lord. Their joy in doing this is evident in Psalm 84. When I read this passage, I can hear their love of their work. Read this passage and compare it to your desire to be in the house of the Lord. Do you look forward to being in church? Ask God to give you a new desire for Him, His presence, and being in His house with friends.

July 6

1) Psalm 10:1-18 notes that the wicked succeed. Psalm 33:1-22 speaks of the joy of serving the Lord. 2) Which of these Psalms do you relate to the most? How would you answer someone who asks the same questions in Psalm 10:1-18. Two thoughts to consider: Would you mention final judgement? Romans 2:5? Or would you mention the joys of serving God and the hope of heaven? Hebrews 6:19?

3) Read Psalm 91 in KJV as well as NLT. What are some of the differences? Does comparing the two bring more understanding?

July 7

1) Psalm 92 focuses on what a person does on the Sabbath. What does this suggest we should do on the Sabbath?

2) Psalm 97 says, "The mountains melt like wax before the Lord, before the Lord of all the earth." Name some mountains in this world that melted before the Lord. What about your life? Pray over what needs to be melted?

June 24

1) Isaiah 8:19 speaks of the dangers of the occult. What does this mean specifically in regards to this passage? To get the full meaning of the dangers, we need to read Isaiah 8:20-22, "People who contradict his word are completely in the dark. 21 They will go from one place to another, weary and hungry. And because they are hungry, they will rage and curse their king and their God. They will look up to heaven 22 and down at the earth, but wherever they look, there will be trouble and anguish and dark despair. They will be thrown out into the darkness."

Where should you find guidance? Who should we look to? But shouldn’t people ask God for guidance? . . . Look to God’s instructions and teachings!

2) Explain Isaiah 9:2-7 from the perspective of a prophecy about Jesus?

This begins with talking about the people of darkness seeing a light--the light is Jesus. Jesus will break the slavery and oppression. "A child is born." Jesus is born! Verses 6-7 continue to give prophetic words about Jesus.

3) Isaiah 11:5 gives another prophecy on Jesus. Describe this and how do we know it's a prophecy of Jesus. Again, we need to put it in context. Isaiah 11:1 says a shoot will grow out of the "Stump of David's Family." This describes Jesus. The Spirit of the Lord will rest on him. This continues. In 11:5 he exemplifies truth and righteousness.

4) How were both of the prophecies fulfilled? Both of the prophecies were fulfilled with the birth of Jesus when he came for the salvation of the people.

June 25

1) After reading Isaiah 12:1-6, a passage of encouragement and strength for the journey, choose one line that will give you strength to live better and stronger this week. Memorize it. (personal choice)

2) Isaiah 17:7 describes an action God desire and says will come to pass for those who know Him and worship Him. How can you apply this verse to your life? People will look to the Creator and turn their eyes to the Holy One of Israel. As Christians we need to keep our eyes to on Jesus.

2) After reading 2 Chronicles 28:16-29:2, explain the responsibility of leadership from the perspective of God. Was this responsibility only because Ahaz was the king or does it extend to our lives and how we lead our family and other areas of leadership? In this passage the Bible speaks of King Ahaz encouraging the country of Judah to go against the Lord's commands. As a result, all of Judah suffered. Our leadership will affect everyone under us. We. cannot lead those under us away from God, but we need to lead them towards God. Effective leadership is necessary.

3) When Ahaz died, Hezekiah his son began to rule at age 25. How did Hezekiah change the kingdom of Judah? Hint: 2 Kings 18. He trusted in the Lord God. He removed the pagan shrines, smashed the sacred pillars, and cut down the Asherah poles. He broke up the bronze serpent that Moses had made, because the people of Israel had been offering sacrifices to it. The bronze serpent was called Nehushtan.[b]

4) In Hosea 1:1-2:13, compare how God deals with Judah to how He deals with Israel. God uses the prophet Hosea to exemplify Israel as a prostitute. During the time of Hosea, Judah was under three kings, and he dealt with Judah according to how the people were led by their Kings.

June 26

1) In Hosea 8:1, how does Isaiah describe the two main problems happening in this short passage? The enemy is coming, and the people have rejected the Lord.

2) Read the above article highlighting references to Hosea.

3) Write a brief comparison of God's love for the church as written in Hosea and Song of Solomon. Hosea shows God's love with persistence and acceptance despite sin. The church is a prostitute loved and pursued by God despite its sin. Song of Solomon shows the church as a perfect bride whom God is pursuing. God loves us no matter our returning his love

June 27

1) What is the significance of the threshing floor in Hosea 9:1? The threshing floor represents where God sifts the wheat-the good from the bad. Often God choses spiritually significant events to happen on the threshing floor. Here the people defile the threshing floor.

2) How do you think the prophets in Hosea 9:8 are feeling? What is the problem they are facing? The people are against those who serve God, the prophets. The people lay traps to harm them.

3) Think about Hosea 10:1. Do you see anything like this in the current culture? The people use their riches to worship other Gods and do opposite of what God would have them do. Often riches is associated with power and a freedom of choice. Sometimes those with riches see themselves as not needing God and use the power of riches to prove they don't need God.

June 28

1)In Isaiah 28:1-29, what is Samaria known for? Isaiah 28:7-8 describes a scene similar to what I have seen often. Pray for changes in our society using this passage to discover issues and ideas for change. Often, I have seen drunkenness that ends in vomit. People sicken by alcohol. Samaria has the same problem as many people. Alcohol leads many the wrong way. Our society is no different. Pray that our people can turn from alcohol so they can be fruitful. Pray that people become strong warriors for God rather than drunkards. Let us listen to God who offers us rest.

2) In Isaiah 1:1-20, what does God call Judah? What does he desire for Judah? How has Judah responded to God's care? God through the prophet Isaiah calls Judah rebellious. He desires for them to return to him so he can make them white as snow. With moon festivals and other evil celebrations that lead them away from God.

3) 2 Kings 17:14-17 describes the rebellion of Israel. What did they do that caused their demise? They rejected God's decrees and covenants. They would not listen to God. They worshiped worthless idols and became worthless themselves.

Pray over those you know who respond to God in similar ways. Ask God to give you the words to help them in their unbelief.

June 29

1) In Isaiah 1:21-5:30, find the priorities God has for His people. Write these priorities down. Do you live the priorities God is asking for? Do we need to live these priorities or is this for times past?

faithful, justice and righteousness, pure silver, defend the cause of orphans, fight for the widows. We still need to be filled with the good things of God, these are long standing priorities.

June 30

1) In Isaiah 13:1-16:14, God speaks of needing a people prepared for war? How can we be prepared for the spiritual war we face on earth? (Read the above Article for details)

2) Who are the Israelites fighting against in this passage? Babylon

Volume 1, Issue 15, June 24-30, 2024 https://secure.smore.com/n/wv5d1

Volume 1, Issue 14, June 17-24, 2024 https://secure.smore.com/n/zp2hm

Volume 1, Issue 13, June 10-16, 2024 https://secure.smore.com/n/wp1t4

Volume 1, Issue 12, June 3-9, 2024 https://secure.smore.com/n/b1g3h

Volume 1, Issue 11, May 27-June 2, 2024 https://secure.smore.com/n/7hnf6

Volume 1, Issue 10, May 20-26, 2024 https://secure.smore.com/n/w9dsya

Volume 1, Issue 9, May 13-19, 2024 https://secure.smore.com/n/y690wr

Volume 1, Issue 8, May 6-12, 2024, https://secure.smore.com/n/x4n6zd

Volume 1, Issue 7, April 29-May 5, 2024 https://secure.smore.com/n/rvg50

Volume 1, Issue 6, April 22-28, 2024 https://secure.smore.com/n/ke6mfb

Volume 1, Issue 5, April 15-21, 2024 https://secure.smore.com/n/ht0j9

Volume 1, Issue 4, April 8-14, 2024 https://secure.smore.com/n/ehqns

Volume 1, Issue 3, April 1-7, 2024 https://secure.smore.com/n/ehqns

Volume 1, Issue 2, March 25-31, 2024 https://secure.smore.com/n/buyf6

Volume 1, Issue 1, March 17-24, 2024 https://secure.smore.com/n/buyf6