A New Heart: A Study in EzekielHalimbawa

What does it say?

Instead of answering the elders’ inquiry, the Lord confronted the house of Israel’s history of rebellion.

What does it mean?

The Lord spared and delivered His chosen people time after time, even though they continuously rebelled. Disobedience requires judgment, so He allowed each generation to suffer the consequences of their sinful choices. God finally stopped intervening altogether, letting them immerse completely in idolatry and paganism. God’s people failed to properly represent His name to the surrounding nations. Despite their actions, the Lord protected His name by acting with mercy, grace, and justice. The elders in captivity still had the audacity to ask the Lord about their present circumstances.

How should I respond?

By definition, a Christian is a person who follows Christ and displays His character. Each of us would have to admit failing to adequately represent His name at times. Human nature is selfish; we often demand our own way, and then we ask God why our lives seem out of control. All the while, people who do not have a relationship with Jesus watch us vacillate between obedience and rebellion to God’s Word. What would happen if you focused on obedience to the Lord more than blessings from Him? God will defend His name and character – how will you be an example of His grace today?