A temporary relief, an eternal hope.

These were prophesies made against Edom (Dumah) and Arabia.  And these prophesies let them know in uncertain terms that disaster was coming to both.

In verse 11, the Edomites cry out, “What is left  of the night?”

In other words, “We’re suffering!  How much longer are we going to suffer at the hands of the Assyrians?”

The answer of Isaiah is bleak, “Morning is coming, but also the night.”  (Isaiah 21:12) 

In other words, “You will get a temporary relief from the Assyrians.  They will be overthrown…but not by you.  And their conquerors ( the Babylonians) will make your life even more miserable.”

The people of Arabia would also suffer disaster, as they would be overthrown within a year.

“Boy, that’s cheerful!  Thanks for the word, Bruce!”

You’re welcome.  🙂

But there is something to take from this.  All of us go through tough times in our lives.  All of us go through suffering.  For the most part, these tough times come and go.  Everyone has good times and bad times in their lives. 

But for those without God, like the Edomites and Arabians, ultimately there is no hope.  Darkness will fall, and they will go to hell for all eternity.

But for us who have Christ in our lives, we can know that in the end, there is a light we can look forward to.  Paul wrote,

I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us…

We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. 

Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit groan inwardly as we eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. 

For in this hope we are saved.  (Romans 8:18, 22-23)

Paul knew that our sufferings, though painful, are temporary.  And so despite all that he went through in his life, he had hope.  And so do we.

Our suffering will not last forever.  So if you are struggling, if you are suffering, turn to God.  Look to him.  And know that even now, the Spirit of God is praying for us. 

It’s precisely because God’s Spirit himself is praying for us that,

We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.  (Romans 8:28)