What warning does Isaiah give in chapter 31?

Isaiah 31 primarily warns against trusting in Egypt for military assistance rather than placing reliance on God. In this chapter, Isaiah addresses the tendency of the Israelites to seek alliances with powerful nations, particularly Egypt, in times of crisis. The prophet makes it clear that such dependence undermines faith in God's ability to protect and deliver His people. He emphasizes that relying on human strength and resources, represented by Egypt's military might, can lead to disastrous consequences instead of the divine protection that comes from faith and trust in God.

The context of this warning is significant because it highlights a broader theme within the book of Isaiah: the dangers of misplaced trust and the call to fidelity to God's promises. Isaiah stresses that true security comes from God alone, who is powerful and capable of saving His people. This emphasis on trusting in God's strength rather than worldly powers reflects the spiritual challenges faced by the people of Israel during turbulent times.