Isaiah’s prophecy concerning the Moabites covers two chapters. The first (chapter 15) gives a picture of their total destruction. The second (chapter 16) provides some of the reasons for their downfall, along with a further picture of God’s compassionate heart for those who rebel against Him. We might remember how an Israelite family had settled in the land of Moab centuries earlier, seeking relief from a famine in their own land. Eventually, after her husband and two sons had died, the mother of this family returned to Bethlehem, accompanied by a loyal Moabite daughter-in-law named Ruth. “For where you go I will go, and where you lodge I will lodge,” Ruth said. “Your people shall be my people, and your God my God.” Ruth would eventually take her place in the lineage of Jesus, a testimony of God’s grace, and a signal that anyone who seeks refuge in the God of Israel will never be turned away or disappointed. Our Savior took on flesh right there in Bethlehem, where Ruth had once gleaned in the fields of Boaz. Yes, Christ was born in the city of David, but He came for Gentiles as well as Jews. Seven centuries before Christ, and four centuries after Ruth, Isaiah spoke an oracle concerning the proud Moabites. The LORD was about to humble them. And within a short period, the prophecy is fulfilled, as Assyria marches into Moab, capturing city after city (chapter 15). In their humbled state, the Moabites send tribute to Judah, begging for asylum. They hoped to find shelter under a refuge provided by the king of Zion. And God graciously answers this request with the promise of a Messianic throne. A descendant of David will reign with divine integrity, putting an end to all oppression and establishing justice by His steadfast love. With the coming of Christ, the whole world is now called to bow in submission before the King of Zion. Anyone can find refuge in Him, despite nationality or geography (16:1-5). Unfortunately, Moab’s interest in Zion is pragmatic but not spiritual. In their arrogance, the Moabites put their foot down, refusing salvation through the son of David. Therefore, they are doomed to more foreign invasion (v 6-8). Still, God grieves over their pain (v 9-12), even as He seals His decree that Moab will soon fall, eating the fruit of her accumulated sins (v 13-14). Devastation is coming to these unrepentant people, and it’s a picture of what awaits all who defy the living God. Misplaced religious trust is futile (v 12), but all who turn to Christ for mercy will escape the wrath that is to come. For further meditation: