AUGUST 20 – Reading 232

by John Pra | August 20

“YOU WILL KNOW I AM THE LORD”
(Ezekiel 4:1-7:27)

“And I will stretch out my hand against them and make the land desolate and waste, in all their dwelling places, from the wilderness to Riblah. Then they will know that I am the Lord.” – Ezekiel 6:14

If you’ve come to Ezekiel’s prophecies for some light, feel good reading you’ve come to the wrong place. God’s words are harsh. Judah’s future is bleak. God’s judgment upon His people has already begun. Have you ever wondered why the Holy Spirit has inspired and included so many historical and prophetic books in the Old Testament that seem to say much of the same thing. Why not shorten everything up with a couple of prophets and warnings. What’s God’s point?

In Ezekiel 4-7, God speaks repeatedly through His prophet. Eight times in four chapters the phrase is repeated – “Then you will know that I am the Lord.” It would appear that God wasn’t simply meting out judgment to punish – He is determined to reveal himself, both in judgment and mercy.

God has Ezekiel going through all sorts of dramatic displays to give vivid portrayals of coming disaster. However, this judgment is not only to correct, but to reveal. God is angry, but he’s also sorrowful. His bride has run off to other lovers.

In our reading today, there are several truths that emerge:

1. God gave all Judah had and they squandered it (5:13-17).

    

2. God keeps His word – both promises and judgments (6:10, 13-14).

    

3. God will judge sin justly (7:1-9).

    

4. God alone give peace and satisfaction (7:23-27).

    

5. God is our only hope (7:14-27).
   

Application

• Recognize and repent of idolatry.  Anything we value, trust, or prioritize more that God becomes and idol. God is broken over divided hearts. Reflect on where your affections and trust lie and repent of any idols that have been erected.

• Take God’s Word seriously. We must hold fast to Scripture, they are trustworthy. Delay is not denial; His patience is not forgetfulness.

Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, You are the Lord and there is no other. Forgive me for chasing after things that cannot satisfy. Break them down. Give me a heart that desires You above all else. May I live as someone set apart, bearing witness to Your mercy and holiness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.