The Insignificance of Nations

Before him all the nations are as nothing; they are regarded by him as worthless and less than nothing. — Isaiah 40:17 As he continues describing God in his majesty and superiority, Isaiah says that all the nations, in comparison, are “as nothing”—even “less than nothing.” This means there is no room for pride or any sense of self-accomplishment in the sight of God. When Isaiah wrote this passage, Babylon was the superpower in that part of the world. It conquered many nations and had dominion over them.Looking back, we see that the empires of the past fell. The great realm of Egypt lay covered with the dust of centuries. Assyria lost its far-reaching empire. Babylon, greater than Assyria, would soon fall into the hands of the Medo-Persians, and later Persia would fall to the Greeks. That is how it goes: nations rise and fall. Strong today, weak tomorrow. A nation may be rich and powerful for a time, but then it will crumble, fall, and eventually be forgotten— less than nothing.Only God is never removed from his throne. Only the glory of God never fades. Only the power of God is never confronted by a greater power. Proud nations drink the cup of failure, but the Lord God will never face defeat. Sovereign Lord, nations are as nothing before you, and yet you care for them and all people. Help us to trust in your unshakable rule. Root us in your eternal glory, unfailing power, and eternal reign that can never be challenged. In Jesus’ name, Amen.