Tuesday, February 18 – Ezekiel 6, 7

1. Through what means would the LORD bring judgment upon Israel for their abominations? (Ezekiel 6:11).

2. Where did Israel burn incense to idols? (Ezekiel 6:13).

3. What were Ezekiel’s first words in his prophecy to Judah? (Ezekiel 7:2).

4. What could not deliver Israel in the day of the LORD’s wrath? (Ezekiel 7:19).

Ezekiel 6 declares that God Himself would bring war upon Israel to put an end to their idolatry. This message shocked a nation that used to believe God chose and favored them. However, they had turned away from Him and embraced pagan practices. Even amid judgment, God showed mercy by promising to preserve a remnant.

Suffering is a way of calling to repentance. It may prevent a more significant dose or even eternal death. “Then those of you who escape will remember Me… and they shall loathe themselves for the evils which they committed” (Ezekiel 6:9). True repentance includes regret over sin, not just regret over consequences (2 Corinthians 7:10). Sometimes, God allows hardship to bring us back to Him.

God gives a final warning: “With sword, famine, and pestilence they shall die” (Ezekiel 6:11). These three judgments meant total destruction—war, starvation, and disease. This is not the decree of a cruel God but of a Father exhausted by rebellion. “I will stretch out My hand against them… and they shall know that I am the LORD” (Ezekiel 6:14).

Ezekiel 7 declares the destruction of Judah as inevitable. “An end! The end has come upon the land” (Ezekiel 7:2). Every corner of Israel would suffer God’s judgment. Pride, idolatry, and rebellion had reached their limit, and consequences would follow.

Israel trusted in material wealth rather than in God. But riches could not save them from divine judgment. (Stop & Think: January 5, 2022). Paul says: “The love of money is the root of all kinds of evil” (1 Timothy 6:10).

Israel misused God’s blessings for selfish gain. They even took gold meant for the Temple and made idols (Ezekiel 7:20). How often do we misuse God’s gifts for selfish purposes rather than honoring Him?

Jerusalem’s Temple, wealth, and power became sources of pride. Yet, the Babylonians would destroy everything they trusted in. (Freebiblestudyhub.com). “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall” (Proverbs 16:18). (Freebiblestudyhub.com). If you are experiencing humbling circumstances, God may be refining you.

Ezekiel’s prophecy reminds us that God’s patience has limits. He longs for repentance, but when people refuse, judgment is inevitable. Today, God calls us to turn away from sin and devote ourselves fully to Him. Let us not delay in surrendering our lives to Him.

“Grace be with all those who love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. Amen.” (Ephesians 6:24)

May you have a blessed and prosperous day!