Isaiah 14

“The LORD has founded Zion, and in her the afflicted of his people find refuge” (v32). God’s judgment on Babylon (and by extension, other people) was due to their self-importance and oppressive ways. Their leaders said in their hearts, “I will ascend to heaven; above the stars of God I will set my throne on high” (v13), and they felt justified in enslaving others. After years of being “afflicted” by foreign empires, Isaiah saw that God would redeem Israel (Zion) and make them a refuge for all His oppressed people (v1).

The injustice and suffering caused by sin isn’t God’s plan. One day, oppression and violence will end, and “the needy will lie down in safety” (v30).