Ezekiel 29:1-30:26
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Ezekiel chapters 29 & 30 are fascinating in that we are seeing God lay out the plans for Egypt's transformation from being one of the most powerful nations in the world to one of the least powerful - but God does provide some redemption for Egypt after 40 years of hardship. However, God says that Egypt will never again reach the heights of power in the world that it had under the Pharaohs. Verse 14 in chapter 29 captures this: "I will restore the prosperity of Egypt and bring its people back to the land of Pathros in southern Egypt from which they came. But Egypt will remain an unimportant, minor kingdom." Very interesting to reflect on this.
Verse 7 in chapter 29 stands out as to why God is unhappy with Egypt (in part - idols are another reason...) - "Israel leaned on you, but like a cracked staff, you splintered and stabbed her in the armpit. When she put her weight on you, you gave way, and her back was thrown out of joint." God was not happy that Israel created an alliance with Egypt as we read earlier in Ezekiel - but at the same time, God was not happy with Egypt for bailing on the alliance when Babylon attacked Jerusalem. Think God likes for us to keep our promises in our life? Do you keep your promises in your life? Are you careful to never make empty promises?
The end of chapter 29 is fascinating in that God decides to allow Babylon to take plunder from Egypt in light of its war against Tyre (see yesterday's readings below). We continue to see that God is using King Nebuchadnezzar and the armies of Babylon for His purposes - for a time. We are reminded though at the end of this chapter in verse 21 - "And the day will come when I will cause the ancient glory of Israel to revive." God's still got the redemption of Israel in mind... Below is a map of how big the Babylonian empire is around this timeframe - (a map like this one below once again proves the amazing truth & history in God's words and prophecies in the Bible...)
Worship Video: Today's readings reminded me of Josh Turner's fantastic song "Long Black Train." This song is basically a country & western worship tune! :) "There is victory in the Lord! Don't go riding on that long black train!"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PyRZTAmcW7c
Have you experienced victory in the Lord? Click here for Victory!
Comments from You: What verses or insights stand out to you from today's readings? Please post up by clicking on the "Comments" link below!
Grace, love, peace, and joy!
Mike
p.s. I would greatly appreciate it if you would pray for this Bible Blog ministry today! Please also consider partnering with us by financially supporting this ministry. Thank you!
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