In Isaiah 18, Ethiopia responds to the growing threat of Assyria by sending messengers to seek alliances with surrounding nations. Yet Isaiah reminds Judah that its security does not depend on human plans, military strength, or political partnerships. The Lord is quietly watching, fully aware of the approaching danger, and prepared to act at the proper time.

In this episode, Curtis and Sally discuss how fear can pressure us to react quickly and create our own solutions. Instead, God invites us to quiet our hearts, look for His direction, and listen for His voice. As we surrender our plans and trust Him through uncertainty, our faith grows and His faithfulness becomes a testimony to those around us. "You can make many plans, but the Lord's purpose will prevail." —Proverbs 19:21

In this episode of Arise+Abide, Curtis and Sally read Proverbs 5 and discuss the warning to avoid the crooked path of sexual immorality and other desires that can lead us away from God. They reflect on how sin can appear desirable at first but eventually becomes a trap, holding us captive and leading to painful consequences. The conversation explores the importance of discipline, self-control, and trusting God's wisdom even when we do not fully understand His boundaries. Curtis and Sally also discuss how God sees the paths we take not simply with judgment, but with compassion and a desire to lead us back to life. Through Jesus, we can be freed from the sins that hold us captive, and through the Holy Spirit, our hearts and minds can be transformed as we learn to surrender our desires to God and follow His path.

In Isaiah 19, the Lord confronts Egypt's misplaced trust in idols, human wisdom, and earthly power. Curtis and Sally discuss how these false sources of security leave the nation fearful, divided, and unable to save itself—and how we can similarly rely on worldly advice rather than beginning with prayer, Scripture, and trust in God. Yet this chapter ultimately offers a remarkable message of hope: the Lord strikes Egypt but also brings healing, makes Himself known to its people, and reconciles former enemies. The promise of Egypt, Assyria, and Israel worshiping together reveals God's heart for every nation and points toward the peace, reconciliation, and salvation made possible through Jesus.