Devise Noble Plans

Note from today’s Bible reading: Isaiah 31-37

Much of the writing of the prophets is spent warning about judgment that was coming against the people of God for their sins. However, there are a few passages that provide a message of hope for what would be coming later.

In speaking of the blessed future of God’s people, Isaiah said, “No longer will the fool be called noble, or the rogue be spoken of as generous” (Isaiah 32:5). The people had gone so far into sin that one who “speaks nonsense” and “inclines [his heart] toward wickedness” (Isaiah 32:6) was able to be considered noble. The one who “devises wicked schemes to destroy the afflicted” (Isaiah 32:7) was considered generous.

The way the people esteemed the fool and the rogue was contrary to what was right and reasonable. Yet a time was coming in which all of this would be corrected. One would have to speak the truth, do good, and help others in order to be considered noble and generous. Rather than sinking to the standards of a wicked culture, Isaiah encouraged God’s people to do what was right. He said, “But the noble man devises noble plans; and by noble plans he stands” (Isaiah 32:8). Those who are intentional about doing what is right will enjoy blessings and security from God.

So devise noble plans. There are times when the world seems to reward those who act foolishly and wickedly toward others. Yet we must be committed to doing what we ought to, trusting in the Lord that all will be right in the end.