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Ezekiel-14

The Lord's Grief and Judgment: A Devotional Study on Ezekiel 14

Introduction

The book of Ezekiel is known for its prophetic messages, illustrated with powerful and awe-inspiring visions from God. The fourteenth chapter is a pivotal point in this narrative, revealing the Lord's deep emotions and firm judgments towards Jerusalem and its leaders. Join us as we explore this weighty prophecy.

Section 1: The Lament of the Lord (Ezekiel 14:1-9)

Devotional Thought: In this section, the Lord voices His intense grief and sadness over the sinful practices and leadership of Jerusalem. His heart is moved towards vengeance and judgment, yet His love and mercy invite repentance. Today, consider why God's love and mercy still invites repentance in our lives, even after His righteous judgments.

Reflection Questions:

  • In what ways has God's love and mercy moved your heart towards repentance?
  • How has God's righteous judgment affected you in the past?

Section 2: The Feast of the Wicked (Ezekiel 14:10-21)

Devotional Thought: God illustrates His coming judgment through the destructive feasts consumed by the three most influential leaders of Jerusalem. The Lord forbids any plea or prayer for these men in light of their blatant disregard for His will. Today, consider why our actions versus our words matter in God's eyes.

Reflection Questions:

  • In what ways should our actions match our words to please the Lord?
  • How can we avoid the fate of the three wicked leaders mentioned in this section?

Section 3: A Reminder of Hope (Ezekiel 14:22-24)

Devotional Thought: The chapter ends with a reminder of God's will to judge injustice and to pour out His Spirit upon the land. The Lord's promise of a coming personal savior, the Messiah, continues to offer hope to the people of God. Today, consider how we can reflect hopeful anticipation for the Lord's coming salvation.

Reflection Questions:

  • How does the promise of a coming personal savior give us hope today?
  • In what ways can we model hopeful anticipation for the Lord's salvation in our lives?

Conclusion:

Ezekiel 14 offers a profound illustration of God's intense emotional connections: love, mercy, grief, and judgment. These emotions highlight the stark reality of our need for God's grace and mercy. May we avoid the greedy feasts, lead with righteous actions, and anticipate the Lord's salvation as we live out our faith today.