Ezekiel 7:1-9:11
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Ezekiel chapter 7 has a line that repeats twice in verses 4 & 27: "Then you/they will know that I am the LORD!" We are seeing here that God is not happy with Israel in large part because they do not realize that he is the Lord. They have sold out to other gods and idols and sin and don't really think God will do much about it. Well, God opens this chapter with strong words in verse 1: "The end is here!" God's patience has run out. But, keep in mind that God kept trying to get the Israelites to repent over and over and over again. They wouldn't. Do we sometimes test God's patience? If so, will we repent in the areas of our life where we test God's patience?
Ezekiel chapter 8 reminds me of a lawyer making a case in court! And God absolutely puts forth a strong case for why the end arrived for Jerusalem in the 5th/6th century B.C. It is so sad to see these sins take place in and around the Temple. In chapter 9 we see six angels of God appear from the north gates - where one of the major idols was located. In this vision, these 6 angels are carrying out God's judgment on Israel. Verse 7 gives us a hint that God is preparing to leave the Temple completely: ""Defile the Temple!" the LORD commanded." We'll pick this up in tomorrow's readings... Below is an artist's interpretation of Ezekiel's visit to Jerusalem: (I realize this is one of the more "unique" pieces of art I have posted up - just wait until we get to the book of Revelation! :)
YouTube: Today's readings reminds me of the Casting Crowns song "Slow Fade," which was in the movie Fireproof. Here's the video for the song:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QASREBVDsLk
Are you in a slow fade in your life? Click here for the fast track to God!
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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