Idea: Confusing, tumultuous times can be like a veil over our eyes, which conceals the providence of God from us(John Calvin). God's judgment against Ethiopia, or the ancient nation of Cush, teaches us to deepen our faith in God when His providence is hidden from our eyes.
1. A Confusing Time - When Assyria invaded Canaan, Cush offered an alliance with Judah (see 2 Kings 19). The bleakness of circumstances could lead God's people to wonder what God was doing. Why was He silent? This isn't an uncommon experience. In the persecuted church, Christians face death and deprevation for the sake of Christ. It's tempting at these times to think that God is distant, is unable, or unwilling to act on behalf of his church. These dire circumstances veil God's mighty providence from our eyes.
2. God Raises the Banner of Christ Over Cush - Promise of Gospel light going to this ancient people.
3. God's Timing - He waits. A. God isn't inactive. His providence is always at work everywhere. B. God waits for a specific purpose. Their wickedness is not yet full. C. God waits so as to save His elect. Instead of Cush calling Judah to come and be their ally, God says I will call men and women from Cush to be MY people, to come to the place of the name of the Lord of hosts, to Mount Zion.
Conclusion
1. Warning to unbeliever. You imagine yourself to be safe and prosperous, You imagine that God is silent, or dead, or at least probably not there. But God can act in an instant.
2. Pray for the persecuted church. Specifically, pray for the mission, Cush4Christ currently working among this ancient people.
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