Pastor’s Bible Reading Schedule: Ezekiel 10-13
Devotional Thought:
In Ezekiel 9, there is a remnant spared by God in almost every one of His judgments. God will take those who are serious about obeying His commandments and fulfilling His will and uses them to carry out His program. The prophesy of Ezekiel is that Judah would be taken captive and that the slaughter would begin at the altar. It was spiritual idolatry that sparked God’s righteous judgment, and He ordered that the judgment begin at the place of worship. I wonder if God brought judgment to America, would it once again start at many churches that have replaced true worship for man-centered entertainment? In chapter 10, God reveals His glory as He did when the tabernacle was dedicated under Moses. “Then the glory of the LORD went up from the cherub, and stood over the threshold of the house; and the house was filled with the cloud, and the court was full of the brightness of the LORD’S glory.” (vs. 4) We have such an important responsibility to remember the holiness and glory of the Lord when we are worshipping in His house, studying His word, and glorifying His name. Whenever we see the judgment of God, it is so encouraging that God always gives a glimpse of His mercy and grace. In chapter 11, God reminds Ezekiel that although He is scattering the Israelites among the heathen, He will gather them together again. “Thus saith the Lord GOD; Although I have cast them far off among the heathen, and although I have scattered them among the countries, yet will I be to them as a little sanctuary in the countries where they shall come. Therefore say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; I will even gather you from the people, and assemble you out of the countries where ye have been scattered, and I will give you the land of Israel.” (11:16-17) We know the fulfillment of this happened when Israel became a recognized state, and from that time, Jews from all over the world have been going back to Israel. May we never presume upon the grace of God, but may we be completely convinced of God’s holiness and consistent judgment on sin. However, may we never grow complacent to the marvelous grace of God that is sufficient in every situation, and for His mercy that is new every morning. Great is Thy faithfulness!
Personal Requests:
• Lord, please help me to hate sin the way you do. May I not make provision for my flesh to fulfill the lusts thereof.
• Lord, please help me to never forget or take for granted your grace and mercy. May I demonstrate gratitude for your grace through obedience to your word.
• Lord, may I remember the great judgment and price tag for sinful behavior. Thank you for reminding and warning me of the price tag of sin.