As followers of Jesus, we need not despair when we think enemies of God have ascended into positions of authority. We shouldn’t fall prey to the temptation to wonder if God is doing anything about it. Instead, we stand in awe of a God who sees well into the future and orchestrates everything according to His good purposes. Paul wrote, “For we know that all things work together for good to those who love God and are called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28).

Reflection

How are 1 Peter 5:13 and Revelation 18 clear indicators that Babylon in the Bible represents more than just a city in the middle east, but also a spirit of rebellion against God that arises in every generation? How does John’s warning in 1 John 2:16 relate to the warning of Revelation 18:4? How do we heed these warnings? Consider the idea of the sovereignty of God. Does that idea make you unsettled, or does it bring you comfort? What verses indicate that God is the central actor in Isaiah 13? What reasons does God give in this chapter for overthrowing Babylon? Can these reasons be applied to the individual as well, and if so, how can we guard ourselves from getting caught up in living for Babylon