Definition: The LORD will enter into judgment with the ancients of his people, and the princes thereof: for ye have eaten up the vineyard; the spoil of the poor [is] in your houses.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Isaiah 3:14. It’s a pretty serious warning, and it speaks to a significant issue with how people are using their resources – especially wealth – and whether they're being treated fairly. Here’s a simple explanation: The Core Idea: This verse is telling us that God is going to hold judgment against those who have been greedy and wasteful, particularly when it comes to their possessions. It’s like a punishment for someone who has abused their blessings. Let's unpack the parts: “The LORD will enter into judgment with the ancients of his people…” – This means God isn't just looking at you; He is actively intervening and imposing consequences. “Ancient” refers to those who have been around for a long time, implying a history of behavior. It’s not about a casual reprimand; it’s a formal judgment. “…and the princes thereof: for ye have eaten up the vineyard…” – This is the key part. "The vineyard" represents God's kingdom and His plan for humanity. “Eaten up” means being depleted, ruined, or used up completely. It suggests that people have been taking more than they need and are leaving behind nothing worthwhile. “…the spoil of the poor [is] in your houses.” – This is the consequence. "Spoil" refers to a surplus or excess – things left over after you’ve used them up. “In your houses” means within your homes, your possessions, and your lives. It's saying that the waste and excess you’ve accumulated has become a problem within your own community – your family, your land, etc. So, what does it mean in simple terms? Basically, Isaiah 3:14 is warning about wastefulness and greed. It’s suggesting that people have been overly focused on accumulating wealth (or possessions) to the point where they've neglected their responsibilities, depleted their resources, and are now creating problems for themselves and for God. It’s a call for humility, responsibility, and prioritizing what is truly important - serving God and his kingdom. Important Note: It doesn’t necessarily mean that everyone is in immediate danger of punishment. It's a warning about the potential consequences of unchecked greed and materialism. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse? Give you some examples of how this could apply to real-world situations?