The Lord tells a parable of two sisters, Oholah and Oholibah, representingSamaria and Jerusalem. Both commit prostitution with neighboring nations.
- P139
Oholah lusted after the Assyrians, so the Lord delivered her into their hands.
Oholibah is worse, going after the Assyrians, the Chaldeans, and the Babylo-nians, and longing for the days when she was a prostitute in Egypt. - P139
This allegory portrays two sisters prostituting themselves, alluding to Israel and Judah making alliances with other nations. The older sister represents Samaria, the capital of the northern kingdom, which adopts the culture and idolatry of Assyria. The unfaithfulness of God’s people begins in Egypt, where they were once enslaved. Even though God miraculously delivered them, they disregard their commitment and return to their idolatrous ways. - P142
The story reminds us of the importance of faithfulness to God. He has rescued us as only He can, and we should offer our worship to Him alone. Let us search our hearts and seek to root out any idols that tempt us away from God. May we remain faithful, devoting our entire attention to Him. - P142
The younger sister depicts Judah making an alliance with the Babylonians.
The people of Judah should know what happens to those who are unfaithfulto God because they witnessed the judgment of Israel. Yet Judah also en-tnessed the judgmgages in idolatry. In rather provocative language, Judah is described as beingconsumed with the power and wealth of the Babylonians. - P142
When we hear ofpolitical or spiritual leaders who are exposed for their misdeeds, let us treatthem as cautionary tales, being fully aware that we are not immune to such Ftemptations. - P142
Let us ask the Lord to shield us and to help us keep our eyesfocused on Him. - P142
May we not indulge in envy but pursue contentment inGod, knowing that His plans for our lives are perfect.
Heavenly Father, when I read this allegory, I recognize that I am also vulnerable to envy and idolatry. Cleanse me from my sin and remind me that You are all I need. In Jesus’ name, amen. - P142
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