These entire chapters are full of oracles against particular nations with particular treatment from the Lord. God is presented here as the one who discipline nations according to their behavior and according to the plans that he has for them as well as for the entire world.
The foundation of all this judgments is not the prophet’s desire or Israel’s expectations, but the direct act of God. Actually the prophet put it in this terms: “The Lord of the hosts has sworn: as I have designed, so shall it be; and as I have planned, so shall it come to pass” (14:24) and also “For the Lord of hosts has planned, and who will annul it? His hand is stretched out, and who will turn it back? (14: 27)
There is a powerful message in all these chapters; the reality is not just what it seems to be, but what is really happening. The rise and downfall of every nation named here, is the direct action and expressed will of God.
I think it will be very helpful for us to remember, that even though this world looks out of control, the Almighty God in behind scenes fulfilling his purposes. It is exactly like we remember the death our Lord Jesus Christ on this holy week, we know that many thought that the cross was the end, but actually behind the scenes our God was resurrecting our Lord.
Christ is risen!
Si Cristo ha resucitado!