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Isaiah 17:7-8

In that day people will look to their Maker and turn their eyes to the Holy One of Israel. They will not look to the altars, the work of their hands, and they will have no regard for the Asherah poles and the incense altars their fingers have made.

The phrase “in that day” refers to a time of God’s judgment. In some passages this phrase refers to the end times; in others, it refers to the current situation. Here the phrase refers to a time when Israel, because of disobedience, would be invaded by the Assyrian army.

On the day of the invasion, God’s people finally turn to Him for help and deliverance. The altars they had built to foreign gods would be of no assistance. Asherah poles were wooden symbols of Asherah, the Canaanite fertility goddess, and the partner of Baal. But the lifeless Asherah poles would offer no aid when the enemy swarmed down upon the people.

If you are trusting in anything but God, one day the circumstances of life will clearly show you the utter futility of your “gods.” The altars of career and possessions will offer no relief from your predicament. The “Asherah” poles of position and power will not take up arms to defend you against life’s merciless enemies. One day you will look to your Maker. Please don’t wait until “that day.” Turn your eyes to the Holy One today!

Father, open our eyes to see the gods we serve. Give us the strength to destroy altars and tear down the poles. Help us acknowledge You as our Maker, as the Holy One . . . and turn our eyes to you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

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Read through the Bible this year:

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