A New Heart: A Study in EzekielSample

What does it say?

The man in linen retrieved burning coals from among the wheels to scatter over the city. Then the cherubim rose with the wheels, taking the glory of the Lord with them.

What does it mean?

Ezekiel’s vision reached its climax, symbolically depicting the heartbreaking events that would soon take place in Jerusalem. God’s wrath, represented by the burning coals, would consume the city when the Babylonian army set fire to Jerusalem (2 Kings 25:8-9). The destruction of the Lord’s holy city was possible only because His presence would no longer reside in His temple or with His people. The Lord would not live in a house defiled by idol worship. So, the presence of the Lord climbed onto His chariot and rode out of the temple and out of Jerusalem (11:22-25).

How should I respond?

Christians are the dwelling place of the Lord – His temple (1 Cor. 6:19). The Holy Spirit resides within followers of Christ, promising never to leave (John 14:16-17). We cause Him to grieve when we allow things into our hearts and minds that are contrary to the character of God (Eph. 4:30-32). What is the condition of your “temple” today? Is it a place the Spirit of the Lord feels comfortable calling home? Or do you have doors you try to keep locked? Ask the Lord to show you any ungodly attitude or habit that has taken up residence in your heart – then be determined to clean it out.