V. 36 God laments for Moab, who could not avoid the punishment because of idol worship. The expression, ‘laments like a flute’ is to show that God was trying to repress his heartbreak. It is also an expression of having constant concern. Do I have compassion like the heart of God over gentile Moab? Do I wait passively for the world that does not believe in God to be punished?
Vv. 40-44 God sends an eagle (Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon) to destroy proud Moab. In that day, the hearts of Moab’s warriors will be filled with terror like the heart of a woman in labor. After great terror, a pit awaits, and after that a snare. If you have turned from God so that you can plot unrighteousness, then stop. We can hide from the eyes of people, but we cannot avoid God’s judgment.
V. 47 God will restore Moab in the days to come. Eventually this day will be when the kingdom of God is established through the Messiah. Just as we, the gentiles, became people of the kingdom of God to attend the glory of restoration, God will give the opportunity to Moab also.
What lesson is God teaching me?
Vv. 37-39 When God decided to break the jar of Moab who were proud, hard-hearted, idol worshippers, Moab became like a house of mourning. All the people practiced funeral rituals (v. 37) and on all the roofs and in the public squares there was nothing but mourning. However, this mourning was not a comfort to them, but a source of shame and ridicule.
Let me dwell in you, Lord, so that my praise will not be changed to mourning.
