Egypt is told to stand ready because the sword of God's judgment is about to come upon the nation. It is unclear who the messengers are, but a warning is to be declared throughout Egypt, in the important towns of Migdol, Memphis, and Tahpanhes, that they must all stand ready to face the sword of destruction that is coming.
14 “Declare in Egypt, and proclaim in Migdol; proclaim in Memphis and Tahpanhes; say, ‘Stand ready and be prepared, for the sword shall devour around you.’