I write this not to create a riddle because it lacks pertinent definition or to write something so prophetic sounding that it will stump the reader. Numbers can reveal things like history and a repeat of the past. We each need to do our research, under the direction of the Spirit, to understand what is happening in the world around us.

Cyrus, a man not well-suited to lead a nation, became the Lord’s anointed one “whose right hand he will empower” (Isaiah 45:1). He will rule to bring order to the world. The rulers of nations “will be paralyzed with fear” (vs. 2) by his appearance. Through Cyrus, God will call to order the leaders of nations to deal with the fear of their unrighteous leadership.

Cyrus would lead in a way that reveals the deeper purpose of why God was using him, “And why have I called you for this work? Why did I call you by name when you did not know me? It is for the sake of Jacob my servant, Israel my chosen one” (vs. 4). This would happen “so all the world from east to west will know there is no other God” (vs. 6).  The work God does through a modern-day Cyrus will have global implications. Both Israel and the Church will be protected by the rule of Cyrus.

The Lord said, “I will raise up Cyrus to fulfill my righteous purpose, and I will guide his actions. He will restore my city and free my captive people – without seeking a reward” (vs. 13).

Then chapter 45 ends and chapter 46 arrives.  The Lord spoke to those still living in rebellion to God, “Listen to me, you stubborn people who are so far from doing right. For I am ready to set things right, not in the distant future, but right now!” (Isaiah 46: 12-13). Setting things right is not always a peaceful event. It will topple the idols we erected today that mock God and His people.

While the chapters and verses in Scripture were assigned only a few hundred years ago, the importance of those numbers offers interesting insight for us today. The transition through chapters 45 to 46 and the arrival of 47 predicts the end of the rule of Babylon and its motivating spirit. It will complete an assignment to set things right in our unbalanced world. That setting right is not for our glory or purpose but for the glory and purposes of the Lord.