Isaiah 28

The twenty-eighth through thirty-third chapters form almost one continuous prophecy concerning the destruction of Ephraim, the impiety and folly of Judah, the danger of their league with Egypt, the straits they would be reduced to by Assyria, from which Jehovah would deliver them on their turning to Him.

The twenty-eighth chapter refers to the time just before the sixth year of Hezekia's reign, the rest not very long before his fourteenth year. (Jamieson-Fausset-Brown)

“Watch closely. I’m laying a foundation in Zion, a solid granite foundation, squared and true. And this is the meaning of the stone: a trusting life won’t topple. I’ll make justice the measuring stick and righteousness the plumb line for the building."

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The Message reveals an embarrassing portrait of Ephraim: Pretentious drunks, shabby and washed out and seedy—Tipsy, sloppy-fat, beer-bellied parodies of a proud and handsome past.

Not really a resume builder...

More important, not something that God can tolerate. Isaiah say God has already picked out somebody to cut them down to size. Imagine this...being so bad that God intentionally goes out and finds a judge.

Think "American Sniper"...whose sole task was to kill Islamic terrorists.

And the results will be just as lethal. God's chosen judge will flatten them like a flash flood,
one-handed he’ll throw them to the ground. Samaria will disappear quicker than a piece of meat tossed to a dog!

Judah is next...and it's not much better. Though God's people should be filled with energy and wisdom to lead and guide others they aer described as "the priest and prophet stagger from drink,   weaving, falling-down drunks, Besotted with wine and whiskey, can’t see straight, can’t talk sense.
Every table is covered with vomit. They live in vomit."

So, I wonder...if we can't get to the truth from outside the church or (often) inside the church...how do we manage to build a life that honors God? Isaiah answers: A life of justice and righteousness can only be built upon the person and work of Jesus Christ. Education won't get us there. family ties will come up short. Money will never have enough value. Church affiliation, itself, is not sufficient. Rules and regulations are futile. Reputation can never measure up.

Think about this question: What is the foundation of my life? If it is anything other that Jesus Christ, God has already picked out my judge. I suspect, however, God could call him off if  necessary.

Live boldly out there today...