One of the greatest temptations in our relationship with God is the feeling that we can predict and ‘manipulate’ God to conform to our own desires and will. God works in mysterious ways, and no human being can fathom Him. This includes when He manifests His discipline and justice.
Whilst in the first half of chapter 30, the Lord states that the events experienced by Judah were the result of their rebellion and disobedience, the second half of chapter 30 affirms that God’s power and discipline extend beyond all nations. The Lord does not turn a blind eye to the cruelty of the nations that have taken Israel captive. Although the Lord uses them as ‘instruments’ to reveal His teaching to Israel, it appears that these nations act with arrogance and cruelty. Therefore, God declares His justice to those nations: ‘But all who devour you shall themselves be devoured, and all your enemies shall be taken into captivity. (v. 16)” This affirms that, at all times, the Lord will act as the Protector who defends His people.
That is not all the Lord has promised; in this passage He also promises healing for Israel’s wounds (verse 17). Why does the Lord heal them? Because the world has scorned them as “exiles” and “Zion, which no one cares for.” This healing is both a demonstration of the Lord’s faithfulness and a restoration of His people’s dignity in the eyes of the nations.
Do we not often see similar situations today? God’s people and the righteous throughout the world are frequently forced to endure such harsh circumstances. Challenges and struggles come one after another, whilst those who act wickedly and deceitfully seem to face no consequences whatsoever for their actions. It is as though we are living in an unjust world, where there are absolutely no consequences for those who do evil. Yet we must not jump to conclusions, for ultimately everything is within God’s authority and power. Just as His love is revealed in mysterious ways, so too is His justice upheld in mysterious ways. Let us continue to do what is required of us: to cultivate a relationship with Him and to live righteously at all times.
