April 15, 2025

God told Isaiah to walk around naked and barefoot for 3 years as a sign to show Egypt and Ethiopia what was going to happen to them when He took away their glory, and they became like servants. According to the commentaries, Isaiah wasn’t completely naked; he was basically only wearing his underwear, no outer garment, and only when in front of the people the prophecy was intended. God calls Isaiah His servant, and the lack of clothing was how a servant dressed. Isaiah was loyal to God, and even though it was embarrassing for him, he did what he was told to do to make a point. People are hardheaded and sometimes must be shown their future since hearing words doesn’t always work. People get their minds made up and don’t want to hear something that might challenge their understanding, so they must be shown it to believe it. God will shame you if you don’t give Him the respect He deserves. God expects us to be holy and obedient; if there is anything in you that needs to be cleaned up, you should do it on your own so that God doesn’t put you to shame. 

So shall the king of Assyria lead away the Egyptians prisoners, and the Ethiopians captives, young and old, naked and barefoot, even with their buttocks uncovered, to the shame of Egypt. And they shall be afraid and ashamed of Ethiopia their expectation, and of Egypt their glory. Isaiah 20:4-5