Category Archives: Sin

All Powerful / King of All, Humility, Justice / Judgment, Pride, Worthy of Fear / Reverence

The Fall of the Mighty: A Lesson in Humility (Ezekiel 31)

Do you ever marvel at the strength and success of those who seem invincible?

Ezekiel 31 reminds us that even the mightiest can fall, calling us to humility and reliance on God.

Key Verse: “Therefore thus says the Lord God: ‘Because you have increased in height, and it set its top among the thick boughs, and its heart was lifted up in its height, therefore I will deliver it into the hand of the mighty one of the nations, and he shall surely deal with it; I have driven it out for its wickedness.'” – Ezekiel 31:10-11 (NKJV)

Background Context: Ezekiel 31 contains a prophecy against Pharaoh, king of Egypt, using the metaphor of Assyria as a towering cedar tree. This chapter illustrates how Assyria, once great and powerful, was brought low due to its pride. It serves as a warning to Egypt and to all who place their trust in their own strength and grandeur.

(Summarized and  continued after scripture)

Ezekiel 31

Pharaoh Warned of Assyria’s Fate

      1In the eleventh year, in the third month, on the first of the month, the word of the LORD came to me saying,

2“Son of man, say to Pharaoh king of Egypt and to his hordes,
‘Whom are you like in your greatness?

      3‘Behold, Assyria was a cedar in Lebanon
With beautiful branches and forest shade,
And very high,
And its top was among the clouds.

      4‘The waters made it grow, the deep made it high.
With its rivers it continually extended all around its planting place,
And sent out its channels to all the trees of the field.

      5‘Therefore its height was loftier than all the trees of the field
And its boughs became many and its branches long
Because of many waters as it spread them out.

      6‘All the birds of the heavens nested in its boughs,
And under its branches all the beasts of the field gave birth,
And all great nations lived under its shade.

      7‘So it was beautiful in its greatness, in the length of its branches;
For its roots extended to many waters.

      8‘The cedars in God’s garden could not match it;
The cypresses could not compare with its boughs,
And the plane trees could not match its branches.
No tree in God’s garden could compare with it in its beauty.

      9‘I made it beautiful with the multitude of its branches,
And all the trees of Eden, which were in the garden of God, were jealous of it.

      10‘Therefore thus says the Lord GOD, “Because it is high in stature and has set its top among the clouds, and its heart is haughty in its loftiness, 11therefore I will give it into the hand of a despot of the nations; he will thoroughly deal with it. According to its wickedness I have driven it away. 12“Alien tyrants of the nations have cut it down and left it; on the mountains and in all the valleys its branches have fallen and its boughs have been broken in all the ravines of the land. And all the peoples of the earth have gone down from its shade and left it. 13“On its ruin all the birds of the heavens will dwell, and all the beasts of the field will be on its fallen branches 14so that all the trees by the waters may not be exalted in their stature, nor set their top among the clouds, nor their well-watered mighty ones stand erect in their height. For they have all been given over to death, to the earth beneath, among the sons of men, with those who go down to the pit.”

      15‘Thus says the Lord GOD, “On the day when it went down to Sheol I caused lamentations; I closed the deep over it and held back its rivers. And its many waters were stopped up, and I made Lebanon mourn for it, and all the trees of the field wilted away on account of it. 16“I made the nations quake at the sound of its fall when I made it go down to Sheol with those who go down to the pit; and all the well-watered trees of Eden, the choicest and best of Lebanon, were comforted in the earth beneath. 17“They also went down with it to Sheol to those who were slain by the sword; and those who were its strength lived under its shade among the nations.

      18“To which among the trees of Eden are you thus equal in glory and greatness? Yet you will be brought down with the trees of Eden to the earth beneath; you will lie in the midst of the uncircumcised, with those who were slain by the sword. So is Pharaoh and all his hordes!”’ declares the Lord GOD.”

Reflection on Ezekiel 31:

  • The Mighty Cedar: The chapter begins with a description of Assyria as a magnificent cedar tree, towering above all others in the garden of God (Ezekiel 31:3-9). This imagery conveys the great power, beauty, and influence of Assyria at its height.
  • Pride and Downfall: The metaphor shifts to the heart of the message: Assyria’s pride led to its downfall. Because its heart was lifted up in pride, God delivered it into the hands of the mighty one of the nations (Ezekiel 31:10-11). This reflects the biblical principle that pride precedes a fall (Proverbs 16:18).
  • Judgment and Humility: The fall of Assyria serves as a stark reminder that no matter how great and powerful, all are subject to God’s judgment (Ezekiel 31:12-14). The purpose of this judgment is to humble the proud and exalt the sovereignty of God.
  • A Warning to Egypt: The prophecy against Assyria is directed toward Pharaoh and Egypt, warning them that their pride and reliance on their own strength will lead to similar destruction (Ezekiel 31:15-18). This serves as a universal lesson on the dangers of pride and the importance of humility before God.

Summary Key Points:

  • The Danger of Pride: Assyria’s fall illustrates that pride leads to downfall, regardless of one’s power and success.
  • God’s Sovereignty: All nations and individuals are subject to God’s judgment, emphasizing His ultimate authority.
  • Humility Before God: The prophecy calls us to humility, recognizing that true strength and security come from God alone.
  • Universal Warning: The message to Egypt serves as a warning to all who trust in their own power and grandeur.

Application: Let us examine our hearts for any traces of pride and self-reliance. May we recognize that all power and success come from God and can be taken away in an instant. Let us cultivate humility, acknowledging God’s sovereignty over our lives and placing our trust in Him alone. By doing so, we align ourselves with His will and avoid the pitfalls of pride.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we acknowledge Your sovereignty and power over all creation. Help us to recognize the dangers of pride and to cultivate humility in our hearts. Teach us to rely on You alone for our strength and security. May we live in a way that honors You, acknowledging that all we have comes from Your hand. Keep us humble and faithful, trusting in Your wisdom and grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Diligent / Hard Worker, Envy / Jealousy / Coveting, Intgegrity / Honesty, Proverbs (Wisdom & Folly), Suffering / Adversity, Unteachable / Foolish, Wise

Wisdom for Life: Building a Strong Foundation (Proverbs 24)

How do we build a life that stands firm amidst challenges and adversity?

Proverbs 24 offers practical wisdom for constructing a strong, resilient foundation through wise living and righteous actions.

Key Verse: “By wisdom a house is built, and through understanding it is established; through knowledge its rooms are filled with rare and beautiful treasures.” – Proverbs 24:3-4 (NIV)

Background Context: Proverbs 24 is a collection of sayings that provide guidance on various aspects of life, including wisdom, strength, justice, and integrity. These proverbs emphasize the importance of applying wisdom and understanding to build a life that is secure and honorable. The chapter also addresses the pitfalls of envy, laziness, and wickedness, offering a comprehensive guide to living a godly life.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Proverbs 24

Precepts and Warnings

1Do not be envious of evil men,
Nor desire to be with them;

2For their minds devise violence,
And their lips talk of trouble.

3By wisdom a house is built,
And by understanding it is established;

4And by knowledge the rooms are filled
With all precious and pleasant riches.

5A wise man is strong,
And a man of knowledge increases power.

6For by wise guidance you will wage war,
And in abundance of counselors there is victory.

7Wisdom is too exalted for a fool,
He does not open his mouth in the gate.

8One who plans to do evil,
Men will call a schemer.

9The devising of folly is sin,
And the scoffer is an abomination to men.

10If you are slack in the day of distress,
Your strength is limited.

11Deliver those who are being taken away to death,
And those who are staggering to slaughter, Oh hold them back.

12If you say, “See, we did not know this,”
Does He not consider it who weighs the hearts?
And does He not know it who keeps your soul?
And will He not render to man according to his work?

13My son, eat honey, for it is good,
Yes, the honey from the comb is sweet to your taste;

14Know that wisdom is thus for your soul;
If you find it, then there will be a future,
And your hope will not be cut off.

15Do not lie in wait, O wicked man, against the dwelling of the righteous;
Do not destroy his resting place;

16For a righteous man falls seven times, and rises again,
But the wicked stumble in time of calamity.

17Do not rejoice when your enemy falls,
And do not let your heart be glad when he stumbles;

18Or the LORD will see it and be displeased,
And turn His anger away from him.

19Do not fret because of evildoers
Or be envious of the wicked;

20For there will be no future for the evil man;
The lamp of the wicked will be put out.

21My son, fear the LORD and the king;
Do not associate with those who are given to change,

22For their calamity will rise suddenly,
And who knows the ruin that comes from both of them?

23These also are sayings of the wise.
To show partiality in judgment is not good.

24He who says to the wicked, “You are righteous,”
Peoples will curse him, nations will abhor him;

25But to those who rebuke the wicked will be delight,
And a good blessing will come upon them.

26He kisses the lips
Who gives a right answer.

27Prepare your work outside
And make it ready for yourself in the field;
Afterwards, then, build your house.

28Do not be a witness against your neighbor without cause,
And do not deceive with your lips.

29Do not say, “Thus I shall do to him as he has done to me;
I will render to the man according to his work.”

30I passed by the field of the sluggard
And by the vineyard of the man lacking sense,

31And behold, it was completely overgrown with thistles;
Its surface was covered with nettles,
And its stone wall was broken down.

32When I saw, I reflected upon it;
I looked, and received instruction.

33“A little sleep, a little slumber,
A little folding of the hands to rest,”

34Then your poverty will come as a robber
And your want like an armed man.

Reflection on Proverbs 24:

  • The Value of Wisdom: The opening verses highlight the importance of wisdom, understanding, and knowledge in building a strong and enduring life (Proverbs 24:3-4). These qualities are essential for establishing a foundation that can withstand life’s challenges.
  • Strength in Adversity: Verses 5-6 emphasize that wisdom brings strength and success, especially in times of adversity (Proverbs 24:5-6). Wise counsel and strategic planning lead to victory and resilience.
  • Justice and Integrity: The chapter stresses the importance of justice and integrity, warning against evil actions and promoting righteousness (Proverbs 24:11-12). It calls for a commitment to doing what is right, even when it is difficult.
  • Avoiding Envy: The proverbs caution against envying the wicked, reminding us that their prosperity is fleeting and that righteousness leads to lasting peace (Proverbs 24:19-20). This encourages contentment and trust in God’s justice.
  • Diligence and Hard Work: The dangers of laziness are highlighted through the imagery of a neglected field (Proverbs 24:30-34). This serves as a reminder of the importance of diligence and hard work in achieving a fruitful and prosperous life.

Summary Key Points:

  • Wisdom as a Foundation: Building a life on wisdom, understanding, and knowledge ensures a strong and enduring foundation.
  • Resilience through Wisdom: Wise counsel and planning provide strength and success in facing adversity.
  • Commitment to Justice: Upholding justice and integrity is crucial for a righteous and honorable life.
  • Contentment in Righteousness: Avoiding envy and trusting in God’s justice leads to lasting peace.
  • The Importance of Diligence: Hard work and diligence are necessary for achieving a prosperous and fruitful life.

Application: Let us strive to build our lives on the foundation of wisdom, understanding, and knowledge. May we seek wise counsel and plan diligently, especially in times of adversity. Let us commit to justice and integrity, avoiding the pitfalls of envy and laziness. By applying these principles, we can construct a life that stands firm and brings honor to God.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we thank You for the wisdom and guidance found in Your Word. Help us to build our lives on the strong foundation of wisdom, understanding, and knowledge. Grant us the strength and resilience to face adversity with wise counsel and diligent planning. May we uphold justice and integrity in all our actions, trusting in Your righteousness and avoiding envy. Teach us the value of hard work and diligence, and may our lives reflect Your glory and honor. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

All Powerful / King of All, Discipline / Guidance From God, Doubt / Lacking Faith, Protector / Deliverer, Provider, Strong in Our Weakness, Worthy of Fear / Reverence

Trusting in the Lord: A Warning Against False Security (Ezekiel 29)

Where do you place your trust in times of trouble?

Ezekiel 29 warns us about the dangers of relying on earthly powers and the importance of placing our trust in the Lord.

Key Verse: “Because they have been a staff of reed to the house of Israel, when they took hold of you with the hand, you broke and tore all their shoulders; when they leaned on you, you broke and made all their backs quiver.” – Ezekiel 29:6-7 (NKJV)

Background Context: Ezekiel 29 contains a prophecy against Egypt, symbolized by the great dragon lying in the midst of its rivers. Egypt, once a source of hope and security for Israel, is condemned for its arrogance and false promises. This chapter emphasizes the futility of relying on earthly powers instead of trusting in the Lord.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Ezekiel 29

Judgment of Egypt

      1In the tenth year, in the tenth month, on the twelfth of the month, the word of the LORD came to me saying, 2“Son of man, set your face against Pharaoh king of Egypt and prophesy against him and against all Egypt.

3“Speak and say, ‘Thus says the Lord GOD,
“Behold, I am against you, Pharaoh king of Egypt,
The great monster that lies in the midst of his rivers,
That has said, ‘My Nile is mine, and I myself have made it.’

      4“I will put hooks in your jaws
And make the fish of your rivers cling to your scales.
And I will bring you up out of the midst of your rivers,
And all the fish of your rivers will cling to your scales.

      5“I will abandon you to the wilderness, you and all the fish of your rivers;
You will fall on the open field; you will not be brought together or gathered.
I have given you for food to the beasts of the earth and to the birds of the sky.

      6“Then all the inhabitants of Egypt will know that I am the LORD,
Because they have been only a staff made of reed to the house of Israel.

      7“When they took hold of you with the hand,
You broke and tore all their hands;
And when they leaned on you,
You broke and made all their loins quake.”

      8‘Therefore thus says the Lord GOD, “Behold, I will bring upon you a sword and I will cut off from you man and beast. 9“The land of Egypt will become a desolation and waste. Then they will know that I am the LORD.
Because you said, ‘The Nile is mine, and I have made it,’ 10therefore, behold, I am against you and against your rivers, and I will make the land of Egypt an utter waste and desolation, from Migdol to Syene and even to the border of Ethiopia. 11“A man’s foot will not pass through it, and the foot of a beast will not pass through it, and it will not be inhabited for forty years. 12“So I will make the land of Egypt a desolation in the midst of desolated lands. And her cities, in the midst of cities that are laid waste, will be desolate forty years; and I will scatter the Egyptians among the nations and disperse them among the lands.”

      13‘For thus says the Lord GOD, “At the end of forty years I will gather the Egyptians from the peoples among whom they were scattered. 14“I will turn the fortunes of Egypt and make them return to the land of Pathros, to the land of their origin, and there they will be a lowly kingdom. 15“It will be the lowest of the kingdoms, and it will never again lift itself up above the nations. And I will make them so small that they will not rule over the nations. 16“And it will never again be the confidence of the house of Israel, bringing to mind the iniquity of their having turned to Egypt. Then they will know that I am the Lord GOD.”’”

      17Now in the twenty-seventh year, in the first month, on the first of the month, the word of the LORD came to me saying, 18“Son of man, Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon made his army labor hard against Tyre; every head was made bald and every shoulder was rubbed bare. But he and his army had no wages from Tyre for the labor that he had performed against it.” 19Therefore thus says the Lord GOD, “Behold, I will give the land of Egypt to Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon. And he will carry off her wealth and capture her spoil and seize her plunder; and it will be wages for his army. 20“I have given him the land of Egypt for his labor which he performed, because they acted for Me,” declares the Lord GOD.

      21“On that day I will make a horn sprout for the house of Israel, and I will open your mouth in their midst. Then they will know that I am the LORD.”

Reflection on Ezekiel 29:

  • Judgment Against Egypt: God declares judgment on Pharaoh, king of Egypt, comparing him to a great dragon in the Nile who boasts of creating the river (Ezekiel 29:3). This imagery highlights Egypt’s arrogance and self-sufficiency.
  • False Security: Egypt is described as a “staff of reed” to the house of Israel—a false support that breaks when leaned upon, causing injury (Ezekiel 29:6-7). This metaphor illustrates the unreliability of placing trust in earthly powers instead of God.
  • Desolation and Restoration: God pronounces that Egypt will be desolate for forty years, scattering its people among the nations (Ezekiel 29:10-12). However, He also promises eventual restoration, emphasizing His sovereignty over nations and His ability to judge and restore according to His will (Ezekiel 29:13-16).
  • Purpose of Judgment: The prophecy concludes with a declaration that Egypt’s downfall will serve as a reminder to Israel of the folly of relying on foreign powers instead of God (Ezekiel 29:16). This reinforces the importance of placing trust in the Lord alone.

Summary Key Points:

  • Futility of Earthly Security: Egypt’s failure as a reliable ally illustrates the danger of relying on worldly powers.
  • God’s Sovereignty: God’s judgment and eventual restoration of Egypt underscore His control over nations and history.
  • Lesson for Israel: The downfall of Egypt serves as a lesson for Israel (and us) to trust in God rather than earthly sources of security.

Application: Let us examine where we place our trust and security. Are we relying on worldly powers, wealth, or relationships instead of God? May we learn from the example of Egypt and Israel, choosing to place our trust in the Lord who is sovereign over all. Let us remember that true security and hope are found only in Him.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we acknowledge that You alone are our true source of security and hope. Help us to recognize the futility of relying on earthly powers and to place our trust in You. Teach us to lean on Your strength and wisdom in times of trouble. May we always remember Your sovereignty and faithfulness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

All Powerful / King of All, Humility, Pride, Worthy of Fear / Reverence

The Fall of the Proud: A Lesson in Humility (Ezekiel 28)

Have you ever felt the allure of pride, thinking you are invincible or above others?

Ezekiel 28 provides a sobering reminder of the dangers of pride and the importance of humility before God.

Key Verse: “Your heart was lifted up because of your beauty; you corrupted your wisdom for the sake of your splendor. I cast you to the ground, I laid you before kings, that they might gaze at you.” – Ezekiel 28:17 (NKJV)

Background Context: Ezekiel 28 contains a prophetic message against the prince and king of Tyre, who symbolize the ultimate fall of pride and arrogance. The passage also includes a lament over the fall of Tyre, drawing parallels between the pride of Tyre’s leaders and the fall of Lucifer. This chapter serves as a powerful illustration of the consequences of pride and self-exaltation.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Ezekiel 28

Tyre’s King Overthrown

      1The word of the LORD came again to me, saying,

2“Son of man, say to the leader of Tyre, ‘Thus says the Lord GOD,
“Because your heart is lifted up
And you have said, ‘I am a god,
I sit in the seat of gods
In the heart of the seas’;
Yet you are a man and not God,
Although you make your heart like the heart of God—

      3Behold, you are wiser than Daniel;
There is no secret that is a match for you.

      4“By your wisdom and understanding
You have acquired riches for yourself
And have acquired gold and silver for your treasuries.

      5“By your great wisdom, by your trade
You have increased your riches
And your heart is lifted up because of your riches—

6Therefore thus says the Lord GOD,
‘Because you have made your heart
Like the heart of God,

      7Therefore, behold, I will bring strangers upon you,
The most ruthless of the nations.
And they will draw their swords
Against the beauty of your wisdom
And defile your splendor.

      8‘They will bring you down to the pit,
And you will die the death of those who are slain
In the heart of the seas.

      9‘Will you still say, “I am a god,”
In the presence of your slayer,
Though you are a man and not God,
In the hands of those who wound you?

      10‘You will die the death of the uncircumcised
By the hand of strangers,
For I have spoken!’ declares the Lord GOD!”’”

      11Again the word of the LORD came to me saying,

12“Son of man, take up a lamentation over the king of Tyre and say to him, ‘Thus says the Lord GOD,
“You had the seal of perfection,
Full of wisdom and perfect in beauty.

      13“You were in Eden, the garden of God;
Every precious stone was your covering:
The ruby, the topaz and the diamond;
The beryl, the onyx and the jasper;
The lapis lazuli, the turquoise and the emerald;
And the gold, the workmanship of your settings and sockets,
Was in you.
On the day that you were created
They were prepared.

      14“You were the anointed cherub who covers,
And I placed you there.
You were on the holy mountain of God;
You walked in the midst of the stones of fire.

      15“You were blameless in your ways
From the day you were created
Until unrighteousness was found in you.

      16“By the abundance of your trade
You were internally filled with violence,
And you sinned;
Therefore I have cast you as profane
From the mountain of God.
And I have destroyed you, O covering cherub,
From the midst of the stones of fire.

      17“Your heart was lifted up because of your beauty;
You corrupted your wisdom by reason of your splendor.
I cast you to the ground;
I put you before kings,
That they may see you.

      18“By the multitude of your iniquities,
In the unrighteousness of your trade
You profaned your sanctuaries.
Therefore I have brought fire from the midst of you;
It has consumed you,
And I have turned you to ashes on the earth
In the eyes of all who see you.

      19“All who know you among the peoples
Are appalled at you;
You have become terrified
And you will cease to be forever.”’”

Judgment of Sidon

      20And the word of the LORD came to me saying, 21“Son of man, set your face toward Sidon, prophesy against her

22and say, ‘Thus says the Lord GOD,
“Behold, I am against you, O Sidon,
And I will be glorified in your midst.
Then they will know that I am the LORD when I execute judgments in her,
And I will manifest My holiness in her.

      23“For I will send pestilence to her
And blood to her streets,
And the wounded will fall in her midst
By the sword upon her on every side;
Then they will know that I am the LORD.

24“And there will be no more for the house of Israel a prickling brier or a painful thorn from any round about them who scorned them; then they will know that I am the Lord GOD.”

Israel Regathered

      25‘Thus says the Lord GOD, “When I gather the house of Israel from the peoples among whom they are scattered, and will manifest My holiness in them in the sight of the nations, then they will live in their land which I gave to My servant Jacob. 26“They will live in it securely; and they will build houses, plant vineyards and live securely when I execute judgments upon all who scorn them round about them. Then they will know that I am the LORD their God.”’”

Reflection on Ezekiel 28:

  • Judgment on the Prince of Tyre: The chapter begins with a prophecy against the prince of Tyre, whose heart was lifted up in pride, claiming to be a god (Ezekiel 28:1-2). God declares that he will be brought down by foreign nations, emphasizing that no one can stand against God’s judgment (Ezekiel 28:6-10).
  • Lament over the King of Tyre: Ezekiel then delivers a lament over the king of Tyre, drawing a striking parallel to the fall of Lucifer. The king is described as having been in Eden, adorned with precious stones, and anointed as a guardian cherub until iniquity was found in him (Ezekiel 28:12-15). This highlights the beauty and splendor that led to his pride and downfall.
  • The Fall of Pride: Because of his pride and corrupted wisdom, God cast him down from his exalted position (Ezekiel 28:16-17). This serves as a stark warning that pride leads to downfall, no matter how exalted one may seem.
  • The Consequence of Arrogance: The chapter concludes with a prophecy against Sidon and a promise of restoration for Israel. This emphasizes God’s ultimate sovereignty and the certainty of His judgment against pride and arrogance (Ezekiel 28:20-26).

Summary Key Points:

  • Danger of Pride: The pride of the prince and king of Tyre serves as a powerful warning that pride leads to downfall.
  • Sovereignty of God: No matter how exalted one may be, God’s judgment is certain and His sovereignty prevails.
  • Call to Humility: We are called to humility, recognizing that all we have and are comes from God, and to guard against the allure of self-exaltation.

Application: Let us examine our hearts for any traces of pride and self-exaltation. May we embrace humility, acknowledging that our beauty, wisdom, and achievements come from God. Let us live in reverence of God’s sovereignty, knowing that He alone exalts and brings down. By cultivating humility, we align ourselves with God’s will and avoid the pitfalls of pride.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we come before You acknowledging Your sovereignty and our need for humility. Search our hearts and remove any trace of pride and self-exaltation. Help us to recognize that all we have comes from You and to live in a way that honors Your sovereignty. Teach us to walk in humility, trusting in Your wisdom and grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Faith / Trusting God, Money / Finances / Wealth, Pride

The Lament for Tyre: Reflecting on the Perils of Pride and Wealth (Ezekiel 27)

Have you ever considered how fleeting wealth and status can be? Ezekiel 27 offers a vivid lament for the city of Tyre, reminding us of the dangers of pride and the transience of earthly riches.

Key Verse: “Your wealth, merchandise, and wares, your mariners and pilots, your caulkers and merchandisers, all your men of war who are in you, and the entire company which is in your midst, will fall into the midst of the seas on the day of your ruin.” – Ezekiel 27:27 (NKJV)

Background Context: Ezekiel 27 is a poetic lament for the city of Tyre, renowned for its wealth and commercial success. The chapter paints a detailed picture of Tyre’s splendor and extensive trade network, but it also prophesies its downfall. The lament highlights the pride and false security that come from material wealth, serving as a warning against the perils of relying on earthly riches.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Ezekiel 27

Lament over Tyre

      1Moreover, the word of the LORD came to me saying, 2“And you, son of man, take up a lamentation over Tyre;

3and say to Tyre, who dwells at the entrance to the sea, merchant of the peoples to many coastlands, ‘Thus says the Lord GOD,
“O Tyre, you have said, ‘I am perfect in beauty.’

      4“Your borders are in the heart of the seas;
Your builders have perfected your beauty.

      5“They have made all your planks of fir trees from Senir;
They have taken a cedar from Lebanon to make a mast for you.

      6“Of oaks from Bashan they have made your oars;
With ivory they have inlaid your deck of boxwood from the coastlands of Cyprus.

      7“Your sail was of fine embroidered linen from Egypt
So that it became your distinguishing mark;
Your awning was blue and purple from the coastlands of Elishah.

      8“The inhabitants of Sidon and Arvad were your rowers;
Your wise men, O Tyre, were aboard; they were your pilots.

      9“The elders of Gebal and her wise men were with you repairing your seams;
All the ships of the sea and their sailors were with you in order to deal in your merchandise.

      10“Persia and Lud and Put were in your army, your men of war. They hung shield and helmet in you; they set forth your splendor. 11“The sons of Arvad and your army were on your walls, all around, and the Gammadim were in your towers. They hung their shields on your walls all around; they perfected your beauty.

      12“Tarshish was your customer because of the abundance of all kinds of wealth; with silver, iron, tin and lead they paid for your wares. 13“Javan, Tubal and Meshech, they were your traders; with the lives of men and vessels of bronze they paid for your merchandise. 14“Those from Beth-togarmah gave horses and war horses and mules for your wares. 15“The sons of Dedan were your traders. Many coastlands were your market; ivory tusks and ebony they brought as your payment. 16“Aram was your customer because of the abundance of your goods; they paid for your wares with emeralds, purple, embroidered work, fine linen, coral and rubies. 17“Judah and the land of Israel, they were your traders; with the wheat of Minnith, cakes, honey, oil and balm they paid for your merchandise. 18“Damascus was your customer because of the abundance of your goods, because of the abundance of all kinds of wealth, because of the wine of Helbon and white wool. 19“Vedan and Javan paid for your wares from Uzal; wrought iron, cassia and sweet cane were among your merchandise. 20“Dedan traded with you in saddlecloths for riding. 21“Arabia and all the princes of Kedar, they were your customers for lambs, rams and goats; for these they were your customers. 22“The traders of Sheba and Raamah, they traded with you; they paid for your wares with the best of all kinds of spices, and with all kinds of precious stones and gold. 23“Haran, Canneh, Eden, the traders of Sheba, Asshur and Chilmad traded with you. 24“They traded with you in choice garments, in clothes of blue and embroidered work, and in carpets of many colors and tightly wound cords, which were among your merchandise.

25“The ships of Tarshish were the carriers for your merchandise.
And you were filled and were very glorious
In the heart of the seas.

      26“Your rowers have brought you
Into great waters;
The east wind has broken you
In the heart of the seas.

      27“Your wealth, your wares, your merchandise,
Your sailors and your pilots,
Your repairers of seams, your dealers in merchandise
And all your men of war who are in you,
With all your company that is in your midst,
Will fall into the heart of the seas
On the day of your overthrow.

      28“At the sound of the cry of your pilots
The pasture lands will shake.

      29“All who handle the oar,
The sailors and all the pilots of the sea
Will come down from their ships;
They will stand on the land,

      30And they will make their voice heard over you
And will cry bitterly.
They will cast dust on their heads,
They will wallow in ashes.

      31“Also they will make themselves bald for you
And gird themselves with sackcloth;
And they will weep for you in bitterness of soul
With bitter mourning.

      32“Moreover, in their wailing they will take up a lamentation for you
And lament over you:
‘Who is like Tyre,
Like her who is silent in the midst of the sea?

      33‘When your wares went out from the seas,
You satisfied many peoples;
With the abundance of your wealth and your merchandise
You enriched the kings of earth.

      34‘Now that you are broken by the seas
In the depths of the waters,
Your merchandise and all your company
Have fallen in the midst of you.

      35‘All the inhabitants of the coastlands
Are appalled at you,
And their kings are horribly afraid;
They are troubled in countenance.

      36‘The merchants among the peoples hiss at you;
You have become terrified
And you will cease to be forever.’”’”

Reflection on Ezekiel 27:

  • Tyre’s Splendor and Wealth: The chapter begins by describing Tyre’s beauty and grandeur. Tyre is compared to a splendid ship, made of the finest materials and manned by skilled sailors (Ezekiel 27:1-9). This illustrates the city’s pride in its wealth and craftsmanship.
  • Extensive Trade Network: Tyre’s extensive trade network is depicted through its connections with various nations and regions, bringing in valuable goods and commodities (Ezekiel 27:10-25). This emphasizes Tyre’s economic power and influence.
  • The Fall of Tyre: Despite its wealth and success, Tyre is destined for destruction. The lament describes how the city’s wealth, merchandise, and people will fall into the sea on the day of its ruin (Ezekiel 27:26-27). This serves as a stark reminder of the impermanence of material wealth and the consequences of pride.
  • Mourning of the Nations: The surrounding nations and trading partners mourn the fall of Tyre, expressing shock and sorrow at its sudden demise (Ezekiel 27:28-36). This highlights the far-reaching impact of Tyre’s downfall and the lesson it serves to others.

Summary Key Points:

  • The Fleeting Nature of Wealth: Tyre’s wealth and splendor could not prevent its downfall, illustrating the transience of material riches.
  • The Danger of Pride: Tyre’s pride in its wealth and achievements led to its destruction, warning us against placing our security in earthly success.
  • Impact on Others: The fall of Tyre affected many nations, reminding us that our actions and reliance on wealth can have far-reaching consequences.

Application: Let us reflect on the fleeting nature of wealth and the dangers of pride. May we place our security and trust not in material riches but in God, who provides true and lasting security. Let us seek humility and recognize that all we have comes from Him. May we live with the awareness that our actions impact those around us and strive to build a legacy rooted in faith and integrity.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we acknowledge that all we have comes from You. Help us to see the fleeting nature of material wealth and to place our trust in You alone. Guard us against pride and the false security that comes from earthly riches. Teach us to live humbly and to recognize the far-reaching impact of our actions. May our lives reflect Your glory and bring lasting blessings to those around us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Fear / Reverence for God, Holy Spirit / Ruach HaKodesh, Hypocrisy, Jesus Christ / Yeshua, Loving / Kind, Share the Good News

The Fear of the Lord: Embracing Boldness and Integrity (Luke 12:1-12)

Do you ever find yourself hesitant to live out your faith openly?

Luke 12:1-12 calls us to embrace boldness and integrity, trusting in God’s protection and guidance.

Key Verse: “Also I say to you, whoever confesses Me before men, him the Son of Man also will confess before the angels of God.” – Luke 12:8 (NKJV)

Background Context: In Luke 12:1-12, Jesus addresses His disciples amidst a large crowd. He warns them about the hypocrisy of the Pharisees and encourages them to live with integrity and fear of God, rather than fear of people. Jesus speaks about God’s omniscience, the value He places on His followers, and the importance of acknowledging Him before others.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Luke 12:1-12

God Knows and Cares

     1Under these circumstances, after so many thousands of people had gathered together that they were stepping on one another, He began saying to His disciples first of all, “Beware of the leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. 2“But there is nothing covered up that will not be revealed, and hidden that will not be known. 3“Accordingly, whatever you have said in the dark will be heard in the light, and what you have whispered in the inner rooms will be proclaimed upon the housetops.

      4“I say to you, My friends, do not be afraid of those who kill the body and after that have no more that they can do. 5“But I will warn you whom to fear: fear the One who, after He has killed, has authority to cast into hell; yes, I tell you, fear Him! 6“Are not five sparrows sold for two cents? Yet not one of them is forgotten before God. 7“Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear; you are more valuable than many sparrows.

      8“And I say to you, everyone who confesses Me before men, the Son of Man will confess him also before the angels of God; 9but he who denies Me before men will be denied before the angels of God. 10“And everyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man, it will be forgiven him; but he who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit, it will not be forgiven him. 11“When they bring you before the synagogues and the rulers and the authorities, do not worry about how or what you are to speak in your defense, or what you are to say; 12for the Holy Spirit will teach you in that very hour what you ought to say.”

Reflection on Luke 12:1-12:

  • Warning Against Hypocrisy: Jesus cautions His disciples to beware of the “leaven of the Pharisees,” which is hypocrisy (Luke 12:1). He emphasizes that nothing hidden will remain concealed; everything will be revealed (Luke 12:2-3). This teaches us the importance of living authentically and transparently before God and others.
  • Fear of the Lord: Jesus instructs His disciples not to fear those who can kill the body but have no power beyond that. Instead, they should fear God, who has authority over eternal destiny (Luke 12:4-5). This shifts our perspective from earthly fears to a reverent fear of God.
  • God’s Care and Value: Jesus reassures His disciples of their immense value to God, comparing them to sparrows. He reminds them that God knows even the number of hairs on their heads (Luke 12:6-7). This assures us of God’s intimate care and attention to our lives.
  • Confessing Christ: Jesus underscores the importance of acknowledging Him before others. He promises that those who confess Him will be acknowledged before the angels of God, while those who deny Him will be denied (Luke 12:8-9). This encourages us to boldly profess our faith.
  • The Holy Spirit’s Guidance: Jesus assures His disciples that the Holy Spirit will provide the necessary words when they face persecution and trials for their faith (Luke 12:11-12). This highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in empowering and guiding believers.

Summary Key Points:

  • Integrity Over Hypocrisy: We are called to live authentically, knowing that God sees all.
  • Reverent Fear of God: Our primary concern should be to honor and revere God, rather than fearing people.
  • God’s Care: We are deeply valued by God, who knows and cares for every detail of our lives.
  • Bold Confession: We are encouraged to boldly confess Christ, trusting in His acknowledgment before the angels.
  • Holy Spirit’s Empowerment: In times of trial, the Holy Spirit will guide and empower us to speak the truth.

Application: Let us examine our lives for any areas of hypocrisy and strive to live with integrity, knowing that God sees all. May we shift our fear from human opinion to a reverent fear of God, recognizing His ultimate authority over our lives. Let us embrace the boldness to confess Christ before others, assured of His care and the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we come before You with a desire to live authentically and boldly for You. Help us to overcome any hypocrisy in our lives and to walk in integrity. Teach us to fear You above all else, knowing that You hold our eternal destiny. Remind us of Your deep care for us and give us the courage to confess Christ before others. Fill us with the Holy Spirit, guiding and empowering us in times of trial. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

All Powerful / King of All, Arrogance, Discipline / Guidance From God, Humility, Justice / Judgment, Money / Finances / Wealth, Pride, Worthy of Fear / Reverence

The Fall of Tyre: A Lesson in Humility (Ezekiel 26)

Do we sometimes take pride in our own strength and accomplishments, forgetting the ultimate sovereignty of God? Ezekiel 26 warns us about the dangers of pride and self-reliance, reminding us that God alone is sovereign.

Key Verse: “Therefore thus says the Lord God: ‘Behold, I am against you, O Tyre, and will cause many nations to come up against you, as the sea causes its waves to come up.'” – Ezekiel 26:3 (NKJV)

Background Context: Ezekiel 26 contains a prophecy against the city of Tyre, a powerful and wealthy city on the Mediterranean coast. Tyre’s pride and its rejoicing over Jerusalem’s fall led to God’s pronouncement of judgment. This chapter details the complete destruction that would come upon Tyre as a result of its arrogance and opposition to God’s people.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Ezekiel 26

Judgment on Tyre

      1Now in the eleventh year, on the first of the month, the word of the LORD came to me saying, 2“Son of man, because Tyre has said concerning Jerusalem, ‘Aha, the gateway of the peoples is broken; it has opened to me. I shall be filled, now that she is laid waste,’ 3therefore thus says the Lord GOD, ‘Behold, I am against you, O Tyre, and I will bring up many nations against you, as the sea brings up its waves. 4‘They will destroy the walls of Tyre and break down her towers; and I will scrape her debris from her and make her a bare rock. 5‘She will be a place for the spreading of nets in the midst of the sea, for I have spoken,’ declares the Lord GOD, ‘and she will become spoil for the nations. 6‘Also her daughters who are on the mainland will be slain by the sword, and they will know that I am the LORD.’”

      7For thus says the Lord GOD, “Behold, I will bring upon Tyre from the north Nebuchadnezzar king of Babylon, king of kings, with horses, chariots, cavalry and a great army. 8“He will slay your daughters on the mainland with the sword; and he will make siege walls against you, cast up a ramp against you and raise up a large shield against you. 9“The blow of his battering rams he will direct against your walls, and with his axes he will break down your towers. 10“Because of the multitude of his horses, the dust raised by them will cover you; your walls will shake at the noise of cavalry and wagons and chariots when he enters your gates as men enter a city that is breached. 11“With the hoofs of his horses he will trample all your streets. He will slay your people with the sword; and your strong pillars will come down to the ground. 12“Also they will make a spoil of your riches and a prey of your merchandise, break down your walls and destroy your pleasant houses, and throw your stones and your timbers and your debris into the water. 13“So I will silence the sound of your songs, and the sound of your harps will be heard no more. 14“I will make you a bare rock; you will be a place for the spreading of nets. You will be built no more, for I the LORD have spoken,” declares the Lord GOD.

      15Thus says the Lord GOD to Tyre, “Shall not the coastlands shake at the sound of your fall when the wounded groan, when the slaughter occurs in your midst? 16“Then all the princes of the sea will go down from their thrones, remove their robes and strip off their embroidered garments. They will clothe themselves with trembling; they will sit on the ground, tremble every moment and be appalled at you.

17“They will take up a lamentation over you and say to you,
‘How you have perished, O inhabited one,
From the seas, O renowned city,
Which was mighty on the sea,
She and her inhabitants,
Who imposed her terror
On all her inhabitants!

      18‘Now the coastlands will tremble
On the day of your fall;
Yes, the coastlands which are by the sea
Will be terrified at your passing.’”

      19For thus says the Lord GOD, “When I make you a desolate city, like the cities which are not inhabited, when I bring up the deep over you and the great waters cover you, 20then I will bring you down with those who go down to the pit, to the people of old, and I will make you dwell in the lower parts of the earth, like the ancient waste places, with those who go down to the pit, so that you will not be inhabited; but I will set glory in the land of the living. 21“I will bring terrors on you and you will be no more; though you will be sought, you will never be found again,” declares the Lord GOD.

Reflection on Ezekiel 26:

  • God’s Judgment on Tyre: God declares that He is against Tyre and will bring many nations against it like the waves of the sea (Ezekiel 26:3). This imagery of relentless waves underscores the certainty and totality of Tyre’s impending destruction.
  • Destruction of the City: The prophecy describes how Tyre’s walls and towers will be broken down, and its dust scraped away, making it a bare rock (Ezekiel 26:4). This complete devastation illustrates the futility of relying on one’s own strength and defenses against God’s judgment.
  • The Ruin of Wealth and Commerce: Tyre, known for its wealth and bustling commerce, will see its riches plundered and its merchants lamenting its fall (Ezekiel 26:12-15). This highlights how material wealth and human achievements are transient and cannot save us from God’s sovereign will.
  • A Warning to Others: The fall of Tyre serves as a warning to other nations and cities. They will be appalled at Tyre’s downfall and recognize the sovereignty of God (Ezekiel 26:16-21). This calls for humility and acknowledgment of God’s ultimate authority over all.

Summary Key Points:

  • Pride and Downfall: Tyre’s pride and self-reliance led to its complete destruction by God’s decree.
  • Transience of Wealth: Material wealth and human achievements are fleeting and cannot protect us from God’s judgment.
  • God’s Sovereignty: The fall of Tyre serves as a reminder of God’s ultimate authority and power over all nations and people.

Application: Let us examine our own lives for areas where pride and self-reliance may have taken root. May we humbly acknowledge God’s sovereignty and submit to His will, recognizing that true security and strength come from Him alone. Let us not place our trust in material wealth or human achievements but in God’s enduring power and grace.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we come before You, acknowledging Your sovereignty and power over all. Help us to recognize areas of pride and self-reliance in our lives and to submit humbly to Your will. Teach us to place our trust not in material wealth or human achievements but in Your enduring strength and grace. May we live lives that reflect Your humility and acknowledge Your ultimate authority. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

All Powerful / King of All, Compassion, Justice / Judgment, Mercy, Revenge

Divine Justice: Understanding God’s Sovereignty (Ezekiel 25)

Have you ever witnessed or experienced injustice and wondered how it fits into God’s plan?

Ezekiel 25 reveals God’s sovereignty and His righteous judgment on the nations that defy Him.

Key Verse: “Thus says the Lord God: ‘Because you clapped your hands, stamped your feet, and rejoiced in heart with all your disdain for the land of Israel, indeed, therefore, I will stretch out My hand against you.'” – Ezekiel 25:6-7 (NKJV)

Background Context: In Ezekiel 25, God pronounces judgment on Israel’s neighboring nations—Ammon, Moab, Edom, and Philistia. These nations rejoiced over Israel’s downfall and acted against God’s people. Through Ezekiel, God declares that He will execute judgment on them, demonstrating His sovereignty and justice.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Ezekiel 25

Judgment on Gentile Nations—Ammon

      1And the word of the LORD came to me saying, 2“Son of man, set your face toward the sons of Ammon and prophesy against them, 3and say to the sons of Ammon, ‘Hear the word of the Lord GOD! Thus says the Lord GOD, “Because you said, ‘Aha!’ against My sanctuary when it was profaned, and against the land of Israel when it was made desolate, and against the house of Judah when they went into exile, 4therefore, behold, I am going to give you to the sons of the east for a possession, and they will set their encampments among you and make their dwellings among you; they will eat your fruit and drink your milk. 5“I will make Rabbah a pasture for camels and the sons of Ammon a resting place for flocks. Thus you will know that I am the LORD.” 6‘For thus says the Lord GOD, “Because you have clapped your hands and stamped your feet and rejoiced with all the scorn of your soul against the land of Israel, 7therefore, behold, I have stretched out My hand against you and I will give you for spoil to the nations. And I will cut you off from the peoples and make you perish from the lands; I will destroy you. Thus you will know that I am the LORD.”

Moab

      8‘Thus says the Lord GOD, “Because Moab and Seir say, ‘Behold, the house of Judah is like all the nations,’ 9therefore, behold, I am going to deprive the flank of Moab of its cities, of its cities which are on its frontiers, the glory of the land, Beth-jeshimoth, Baal-meon and Kiriathaim, 10and I will give it for a possession along with the sons of Ammon to the sons of the east, so that the sons of Ammon will not be remembered among the nations. 11“Thus I will execute judgments on Moab, and they will know that I am the LORD.”

Edom

      12‘Thus says the Lord GOD, “Because Edom has acted against the house of Judah by taking vengeance, and has incurred grievous guilt, and avenged themselves upon them,” 13therefore thus says the Lord GOD, “I will also stretch out My hand against Edom and cut off man and beast from it. And I will lay it waste; from Teman even to Dedan they will fall by the sword. 14“I will lay My vengeance on Edom by the hand of My people Israel. Therefore, they will act in Edom according to My anger and according to My wrath; thus they will know My vengeance,” declares the Lord GOD.

Philistia

      15‘Thus says the Lord GOD, “Because the Philistines have acted in revenge and have taken vengeance with scorn of soul to destroy with everlasting enmity,” 16therefore thus says the Lord GOD, “Behold, I will stretch out My hand against the Philistines, even cut off the Cherethites and destroy the remnant of the seacoast. 17“I will execute great vengeance on them with wrathful rebukes; and they will know that I am the LORD when I lay My vengeance on them.”’”

Reflection on Ezekiel 25:

  • Judgment on Ammon: God rebukes the Ammonites for their malicious joy over the destruction of the temple and Israel’s exile. He warns that their land will be given to the people of the East (Ezekiel 25:1-7). This judgment underscores that gloating over the misfortunes of others incurs God’s wrath.
  • Judgment on Moab: Moab is condemned for saying that Judah is like all other nations. God declares that Moab’s strongholds will be destroyed, and they will know His power (Ezekiel 25:8-11). This emphasizes that disregarding God’s unique relationship with His people invites His judgment.
  • Judgment on Edom: Edom is judged for taking revenge on Judah. God announces that He will lay waste to Edom, showing that vengeance belongs to the Lord (Ezekiel 25:12-14). This highlights that taking matters into our own hands and seeking revenge leads to divine retribution.
  • Judgment on Philistia: The Philistines are punished for their longstanding hostility and vengeful actions against Judah. God promises to destroy the Philistines and wipe out their remnant (Ezekiel 25:15-17). This illustrates that harboring and acting on deep-seated animosity results in God’s decisive intervention.

Summary Key Points:

  • Divine Justice: God’s judgment on the nations reveals His commitment to justice and His intolerance of malicious joy and vengeance.
  • Sovereignty of God: The punishments reflect God’s sovereignty over all nations and His protection of His people.
  • Consequences of Actions: Rejoicing in others’ misfortunes and seeking revenge bring about God’s righteous judgment.

Application: Let us reflect on God’s sovereignty and His commitment to justice. We should avoid rejoicing over the misfortunes of others or taking revenge into our own hands. Instead, let us trust in God’s righteous judgment and seek to live in harmony with others, showing compassion and mercy.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we acknowledge Your sovereignty and righteousness. Help us to trust in Your divine justice and refrain from rejoicing over the misfortunes of others. Grant us hearts that seek peace and reconciliation, leaving vengeance to You. May we always act with compassion and mercy, reflecting Your love to those around us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Discipline / Guidance From God, Disobeying, Rebelling Against, Ignoring God, Father / Yahweh, Justice / Judgment, Repenting from Sin, Worthy of Fear / Reverence

The Parable of the Boiling Pot: A Call to Repentance (Ezekiel 24)

Have you ever experienced a moment when reality hits hard, prompting a deep reflection on your actions?

God often uses vivid illustrations to capture our attention and call us to repentance, just as He did with the people of Israel through the prophet Ezekiel.

Key Verse: “In your filthiness is lewdness. Because I have cleansed you, and you were not cleansed, you will not be cleansed of your filthiness anymore till I have caused My fury to rest upon you.” – Ezekiel 24:13 (NKJV)

Background Context: In Ezekiel 24, God commands Ezekiel to deliver a parable to the rebellious house of Israel. The parable of the boiling pot serves as a powerful metaphor for the impending judgment on Jerusalem due to the people’s persistent sins and refusal to repent.

(Summarized and continued after scripture)

Ezekiel 24

Parable of the Boiling Pot

      1And the word of the LORD came to me in the ninth year, in the tenth month, on the tenth of the month, saying, 2“Son of man, write the name of the day, this very day. The king of Babylon has laid siege to Jerusalem this very day.

3“Speak a parable to the rebellious house and say to them, ‘Thus says the Lord GOD,
“Put on the pot, put it on and also pour water in it;

      4Put in it the pieces,
Every good piece, the thigh and the shoulder;
Fill it with choice bones.

      5“Take the choicest of the flock,
And also pile wood under the pot.
Make it boil vigorously.
Also seethe its bones in it.”

      6‘Therefore, thus says the Lord GOD,
“Woe to the bloody city,
To the pot in which there is rust
And whose rust has not gone out of it!
Take out of it piece after piece,
Without making a choice.

      7“For her blood is in her midst;
She placed it on the bare rock;
She did not pour it on the ground
To cover it with dust.

      8“That it may cause wrath to come up to take vengeance,
I have put her blood on the bare rock,
That it may not be covered.”

9‘Therefore, thus says the Lord GOD,
“Woe to the bloody city!
I also will make the pile great.

      10“Heap on the wood, kindle the fire,
Boil the flesh well
And mix in the spices,
And let the bones be burned.

      11“Then set it empty on its coals
So that it may be hot
And its bronze may glow
And its filthiness may be melted in it,
Its rust consumed.

      12“She has wearied Me with toil,
Yet her great rust has not gone from her;
Let her rust be in the fire!

      13“In your filthiness is lewdness.
Because I would have cleansed you,
Yet you are not clean,
You will not be cleansed from your filthiness again
Until I have spent My wrath on you.

14“I, the LORD, have spoken; it is coming and I will act. I will not relent, and I will not pity and I will not be sorry; according to your ways and according to your deeds I will judge you,” declares the Lord GOD.’”

Death of Ezekiel’s Wife Is a Sign

      15And the word of the LORD came to me saying, 16“Son of man, behold, I am about to take from you the desire of your eyes with a blow; but you shall not mourn and you shall not weep, and your tears shall not come. 17“Groan silently; make no mourning for the dead. Bind on your turban and put your shoes on your feet, and do not cover your mustache and do not eat the bread of men.” 18So I spoke to the people in the morning, and in the evening my wife died. And in the morning I did as I was commanded. 19The people said to me, “Will you not tell us what these things that you are doing mean for us?” 20Then I said to them, “The word of the LORD came to me saying, 21‘Speak to the house of Israel, “Thus says the Lord GOD, ‘Behold, I am about to profane My sanctuary, the pride of your power, the desire of your eyes and the delight of your soul; and your sons and your daughters whom you have left behind will fall by the sword. 22‘You will do as I have done; you will not cover your mustache and you will not eat the bread of men. 23‘Your turbans will be on your heads and your shoes on your feet. You will not mourn and you will not weep, but you will rot away in your iniquities and you will groan to one another. 24‘Thus Ezekiel will be a sign to you; according to all that he has done you will do; when it comes, then you will know that I am the Lord GOD.’”

      25‘As for you, son of man, will it not be on the day when I take from them their stronghold, the joy of their pride, the desire of their eyes and their heart’s delight, their sons and their daughters, 26that on that day he who escapes will come to you with information for your ears? 27‘On that day your mouth will be opened to him who escaped, and you will speak and be mute no longer. Thus you will be a sign to them, and they will know that I am the LORD.’”

Reflection on Ezekiel 24:

  • The Boiling Pot: God instructs Ezekiel to set a pot on the fire, fill it with choice pieces of meat, and boil it. This symbolizes Jerusalem, filled with its inhabitants and their corruption (Ezekiel 24:3-5). The boiling pot represents the intense judgment coming upon the city due to its sins.
  • Scum and Corruption: As the pot boils, scum (or rust) accumulates, representing the persistent impurities and wickedness of the people. God declares that the pot will not be cleansed until all its contents are burned away (Ezekiel 24:6-12). This highlights the severity of their sin and the need for thorough purification.
  • The Death of Ezekiel’s Wife: In a personal and painful illustration, God informs Ezekiel that his wife will die suddenly, and he is not to mourn openly (Ezekiel 24:15-18). This symbolizes the impending destruction of Jerusalem and the people’s inability to mourn properly due to the overwhelming calamity.
  • A Sign to the People: Ezekiel’s actions and the parable serve as a sign to the people of Israel. Despite the severe judgment, God’s desire is for them to recognize their sin, repent, and turn back to Him (Ezekiel 24:24-27).

Summary Key Points:

  • Judgment for Sin: The boiling pot symbolizes the intense judgment due to persistent sin.
  • Need for Purification: The scum represents the deep-seated corruption that must be cleansed.
  • Call to Repentance: God uses vivid illustrations to prompt sincere repentance and return to Him.

Application: Let us examine our lives for any persistent sins or areas where we need God’s cleansing. May we respond to His call for repentance with sincerity and humility. God’s desire is for us to turn away from our sins and seek His forgiveness and restoration.

Closing Prayer: Heavenly Father, we come before You, acknowledging our sins and our need for Your cleansing power. Just as You called Israel to repentance, we ask that You reveal any areas in our lives that need purification. Help us to turn away from our sins and seek Your forgiveness. Restore us, O Lord, and make us vessels of honor for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

This devotional challenges us to reflect on our own lives and heed God’s call to repentance, seeking His cleansing and restoration.

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.

Discipline / Guidance From God, Disobeying, Rebelling Against, Ignoring God, Idols / False Gods, Justice / Judgment, Repenting from Sin

Restoring Faithfulness in Our Walk with God (Ezekiel 23)

Key Scripture: Ezekiel 23:35 (NIV) – “Therefore this is what the Sovereign Lord says: Since you have forgotten me and turned your back on me, you must bear the consequences of your lewdness and prostitution.” (full scripture below)

Reconnect: In Ezekiel 23, the prophet conveys a powerful and stark message from God to the people of Jerusalem and Samaria. Using vivid and unsettling imagery, God describes their unfaithfulness and idolatry as acts of prostitution, emphasizing the severity of their spiritual adultery. This chapter reminds us of the consequences of turning away from God and embracing the ways of the world.

Reflection: God’s message in Ezekiel 23 is a call to examine our hearts and our faithfulness to Him. Just as Israel and Judah faced dire consequences for their spiritual infidelity, we too can find ourselves distanced from God’s blessings when we allow other things to take His place in our lives. It’s easy to get caught up in the allure of worldly pleasures and forget our first love, but God desires our complete devotion.

Think about the areas in your life where you might be turning away from God. Are there habits, relationships, or pursuits that are drawing you away from Him? Ezekiel 23 challenges us to confront these distractions and recommit ourselves to living faithfully before God. His call to return to Him is always accompanied by His willingness to forgive and restore.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, we come before You with humble hearts, acknowledging that we have sometimes turned away from You. Forgive us for the times we have placed other things above our relationship with You. Help us to recognize the distractions and idols in our lives that pull us away from Your love. Renew our hearts and minds, and draw us closer to You. Thank You for Your mercy and grace, always ready to forgive and restore us. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Action Step: This week, take time each day to identify and eliminate one distraction that has been pulling you away from God. Replace it with time spent in prayer, reading the Bible, or worshiping. Make a conscious effort to draw closer to God and renew your commitment to Him.

Full Scripture:

Ezekiel 23

Oholah and Oholibah’s Sin and Its Consequences

      1The word of the LORD came to me again, saying, 2“Son of man, there were two women, the daughters of one mother; 3and they played the harlot in Egypt. They played the harlot in their youth; there their breasts were pressed and there their virgin bosom was handled. 4“Their names were Oholah the elder and Oholibah her sister. And they became Mine, and they bore sons and daughters. And as for their names, Samaria is Oholah and Jerusalem is Oholibah.

      5“Oholah played the harlot while she was Mine; and she lusted after her lovers, after the Assyrians, her neighbors, 6who were clothed in purple, governors and officials, all of them desirable young men, horsemen riding on horses. 7“She bestowed her harlotries on them, all of whom were the choicest men of Assyria; and with all whom she lusted after, with all their idols she defiled herself. 8“She did not forsake her harlotries from the time in Egypt; for in her youth men had lain with her, and they handled her virgin bosom and poured out their lust on her. 9“Therefore, I gave her into the hand of her lovers, into the hand of the Assyrians, after whom she lusted. 10“They uncovered her nakedness; they took her sons and her daughters, but they slew her with the sword. Thus she became a byword among women, and they executed judgments on her.

      11“Now her sister Oholibah saw this, yet she was more corrupt in her lust than she, and her harlotries were more than the harlotries of her sister. 12“She lusted after the Assyrians, governors and officials, the ones near, magnificently dressed, horsemen riding on horses, all of them desirable young men. 13“I saw that she had defiled herself; they both took the same way. 14“So she increased her harlotries. And she saw men portrayed on the wall, images of the Chaldeans portrayed with vermilion, 15girded with belts on their loins, with flowing turbans on their heads, all of them looking like officers, like the Babylonians in Chaldea, the land of their birth. 16“When she saw them she lusted after them and sent messengers to them in Chaldea. 17“The Babylonians came to her to the bed of love and defiled her with their harlotry. And when she had been defiled by them, she became disgusted with them. 18“She uncovered her harlotries and uncovered her nakedness; then I became disgusted with her, as I had become disgusted with her sister. 19“Yet she multiplied her harlotries, remembering the days of her youth, when she played the harlot in the land of Egypt. 20“She lusted after their paramours, whose flesh is like the flesh of donkeys and whose issue is like the issue of horses. 21“Thus you longed for the lewdness of your youth, when the Egyptians handled your bosom because of the breasts of your youth.

      22“Therefore, O Oholibah, thus says the Lord GOD, ‘Behold I will arouse your lovers against you, from whom you were alienated, and I will bring them against you from every side: 23the Babylonians and all the Chaldeans, Pekod and Shoa and Koa, and all the Assyrians with them; desirable young men, governors and officials all of them, officers and men of renown, all of them riding on horses. 24‘They will come against you with weapons, chariots and wagons, and with a company of peoples. They will set themselves against you on every side with buckler and shield and helmet; and I will commit the judgment to them, and they will judge you according to their customs. 25‘I will set My jealousy against you, that they may deal with you in wrath. They will remove your nose and your ears; and your survivors will fall by the sword. They will take your sons and your daughters; and your survivors will be consumed by the fire. 26‘They will also strip you of your clothes and take away your beautiful jewels. 27‘Thus I will make your lewdness and your harlotry brought from the land of Egypt to cease from you, so that you will not lift up your eyes to them or remember Egypt anymore.’ 28“For thus says the Lord GOD, ‘Behold, I will give you into the hand of those whom you hate, into the hand of those from whom you were alienated. 29‘They will deal with you in hatred, take all your property, and leave you naked and bare. And the nakedness of your harlotries will be uncovered, both your lewdness and your harlotries. 30‘These things will be done to you because you have played the harlot with the nations, because you have defiled yourself with their idols. 31‘You have walked in the way of your sister; therefore I will give her cup into your hand.’

32“Thus says the Lord GOD,
‘You will drink your sister’s cup,
Which is deep and wide.
You will be laughed at and held in derision;
It contains much.

      33‘You will be filled with drunkenness and sorrow,
The cup of horror and desolation,
The cup of your sister Samaria.

      34‘You will drink it and drain it.
Then you will gnaw its fragments
And tear your breasts;
for I have spoken,’ declares the Lord GOD.

35“Therefore, thus says the Lord GOD, ‘Because you have forgotten Me and cast Me behind your back, bear now the punishment of your lewdness and your harlotries.’”

      36Moreover, the LORD said to me, “Son of man, will you judge Oholah and Oholibah? Then declare to them their abominations. 37“For they have committed adultery, and blood is on their hands. Thus they have committed adultery with their idols and even caused their sons, whom they bore to Me, to pass through the fire to them as food. 38“Again, they have done this to Me: they have defiled My sanctuary on the same day and have profaned My sabbaths. 39“For when they had slaughtered their children for their idols, they entered My sanctuary on the same day to profane it; and lo, thus they did within My house.

      40“Furthermore, they have even sent for men who come from afar, to whom a messenger was sent; and lo, they came—for whom you bathed, painted your eyes and decorated yourselves with ornaments; 41and you sat on a splendid couch with a table arranged before it on which you had set My incense and My oil. 42“The sound of a carefree multitude was with her; and drunkards were brought from the wilderness with men of the common sort. And they put bracelets on the hands of the women and beautiful crowns on their heads.

      43“Then I said concerning her who was worn out by adulteries, ‘Will they now commit adultery with her when she is thus?’ 44“But they went in to her as they would go in to a harlot. Thus they went in to Oholah and to Oholibah, the lewd women. 45“But they, righteous men, will judge them with the judgment of adulteresses and with the judgment of women who shed blood, because they are adulteresses and blood is on their hands.

      46“For thus says the Lord GOD, ‘Bring up a company against them and give them over to terror and plunder. 47‘The company will stone them with stones and cut them down with their swords; they will slay their sons and their daughters and burn their houses with fire. 48‘Thus I will make lewdness cease from the land, that all women may be admonished and not commit lewdness as you have done. 49‘Your lewdness will be requited upon you, and you will bear the penalty of worshiping your idols; thus you will know that I am the Lord GOD.’”

May the grace and peace of our Lord, Yeshua, be with you.

John Golda

Do you know for sure if you will go to heaven or hell when you die? Are you experiencing in your life the peace and joy of a personal relationship with our Creator and Father? Learn more about salvation through The Message of the Cross.