08.06.08
Isaiah - Day 69
Scripture: Isaiah 3:16 (NIV): "The LORD says, 'The women of Zion are haughty, walking along with outstretched necks, flirting with their eyes, tripping along with mincing steps, with ornaments jungling on their ankles.' "
Thought: To me, oppression and promiscuity can go hand in hand in a degraded society.
Question: What is my attitude toward prostitution?
The emphasis of these women is entirely wrong. They think their physical attractiveness is most important. God calls them "haughty", and we know God detests a proud look (Proverbs 6:16 and 17, 16:5 and 21:4). They are caught up into a trend that produces promiscuity. They have exploited themselves, taking the features God has created and twisting them into an evil purpose. Their goal is to have power and influence over men to improve their standing and security in life. This is a misuse of God's intentions for women. God doesn't want a woman seductive toward many men; He wants a woman helpful to one man.
Taken in context, this verse points another finger; not only are the male leaders and elders at fault to oppress and mislead the people, but also now, the women are at fault to warp and twist their femininity to their evil purpose--both in a desire to "get ahead" in their world.
All of the descriptions here relate to prostitution of that day. We are no different today. Women use these "wiles" to climb their way up in society just as the male leaders oppressed others to make their "gains." Unfortunately, the reality is that in the end their behaviors will bring on the wrath of God, their Creator, Who has different purposes in mind for His creatures.
Prayer: Lord, I pray for the women of our country. May they all seek to draw near to You, honor You, worship You, obey You and live for You. Amen.
