Isaiah 16:3

"Give us counsel; render a decision. Shelter us at noonday with shade as dark as night. Hide the refugees; do not betray the one who flees.

Study Bible

Give us counsel; render a decision.
This plea reflects a desperate call for guidance and justice. In the context of Isaiah 16, the Moabites are seeking refuge and assistance from Judah. The request for counsel and decision-making indicates a need for wise leadership, reminiscent of Solomon's wisdom (1 Kings 3:28). Biblically, seeking counsel is often associated with seeking God's will (Proverbs 3:5-6). The Moabites' appeal to Judah may also symbolize a broader human need for divine guidance and righteous judgment, pointing to Christ as the ultimate source of wisdom and justice (1 Corinthians 1:30).

Shelter us at noonday with shade as dark as night.
This imagery of protection from the harshness of the sun at noon suggests a need for refuge and relief from intense oppression or danger. In the ancient Near East, the sun's heat was a common metaphor for trials and tribulations (Psalm 121:6). The request for shade as dark as night implies a deep, encompassing protection, which can be seen as a type of Christ, who offers rest and refuge to the weary (Matthew 11:28-30). The concept of God as a shelter is a recurring theme in Scripture, emphasizing His role as a protector (Psalm 91:1-2).

Hide the refugees; do not betray the one who flees.
This phrase underscores the importance of providing asylum and protection to those in distress. In the historical context, Moabites fleeing from Assyrian invasion sought safety in Judah. The call to hide and not betray refugees aligns with biblical principles of justice and mercy (Deuteronomy 10:18-19). It also foreshadows the New Testament's emphasis on caring for the marginalized and oppressed (Matthew 25:35-40). The plea not to betray those who flee highlights the need for trustworthiness and compassion, qualities exemplified by Jesus, who is a refuge for all who seek Him (Hebrews 6:18-20).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moab
A nation east of Israel, often in conflict with Israel. In Isaiah 16, Moab seeks refuge and counsel from Judah during a time of distress.

2. Judah
The southern kingdom of Israel, to whom Moab turns for help. Judah is called to provide protection and justice.

3. Refugees
Individuals fleeing from danger, seeking safety and protection. In this context, they are Moabites seeking refuge in Judah.

4. Isaiah
The prophet delivering God's message, calling for justice and compassion towards those in need.

5. God's Judgment
The overarching theme of Isaiah, where God's justice and mercy are highlighted, especially towards nations like Moab.

Teaching Points

Compassion and Justice
As believers, we are called to show compassion and execute justice, especially towards those who are vulnerable and in need of refuge.

Protection of the Vulnerable
The directive to "hide the refugees" emphasizes the importance of protecting those who are fleeing from danger, reflecting God's heart for the oppressed.

Trust in God's Sovereignty
Even in times of distress, like Moab's situation, we are reminded to trust in God's sovereign plan and His provision through His people.

Hospitality as a Christian Duty
The call to not betray the one who flees highlights the Christian duty of hospitality and care for strangers, reflecting Christ's love.

Practical Faith
Our faith should manifest in practical actions, such as providing counsel, executing judgment, and offering protection to those in need.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the historical context of Moab seeking refuge in Judah enhance our understanding of Isaiah 16:3?

2. In what ways can we apply the principles of compassion and justice from Isaiah 16:3 in our modern context?

3. How do the teachings of Jesus in the New Testament reinforce the message of Isaiah 16:3 regarding care for refugees and strangers?

4. What are some practical ways we can "make our shadow like night at high noon" for those seeking refuge today?

5. How does understanding God's character of justice and mercy influence our response to those in need, as seen in Isaiah 16:3?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 10:18-19
This passage emphasizes God's love for the foreigner and commands Israel to love the stranger, reflecting the call for compassion in Isaiah 16:3.

Matthew 25:35-40
Jesus speaks about caring for the stranger and the needy, which aligns with the call to hide and protect refugees in Isaiah 16:3.

Hebrews 13:2
Encourages hospitality to strangers, echoing the directive to not betray the one who flees.