Tag: Jeremiah

From a Trickle to a Torrent: When God’s Life Flows Through You

In Ezekiel 47, we read about a river flowing from the temple, starting as a trickle but quickly becoming a mighty, life-giving stream. As the river moves, it transforms everything in its path, bringing life to barren lands and healing even the salty, lifeless Dead Sea. This vision is more than a geographical restoration; it’s a profound picture of what happens when God’s presence and power flow into our lives.

Like the river in Ezekiel’s vision, God’s work in our lives often starts small. It may begin as a single moment—a prayer, a conviction, an encounter with Him. At first, it’s ankle-deep. We feel the refreshing presence of God, but we’re still in control. But as we step deeper into the flow, we begin to experience something more profound. What starts as a trickle of God’s life begins to swell, transforming not only us but also the areas of our lives that feel barren or lifeless.

The deeper we go, the less control we have—and that’s a good thing. As the river gets stronger, it moves us, reshaping our priorities, our desires, and our hearts. Where there was once spiritual dryness, God brings healing. Where we once felt stagnant, He causes us to flourish. This river is a symbol of God’s uncontainable life, and He invites us to step into its flow, allowing His presence to transform us completely.

But here’s the challenge: many of us are content to stay in the shallow waters. We’re hesitant to surrender fully, fearing what might happen if we lose control. But God calls us to dive deeper, to let His Spirit carry us where we cannot go on our own. Just as the river brings life to everything it touches, when we allow God’s presence to fully immerse us, we become a powerful witness to the source of life and healing for others.

The question for us today is: are we willing to wade deeper? Are we ready to let God take us beyond the comfortable and into the transformative depths of His presence? When we do, the impact isn’t just personal. Like the river in Ezekiel’s vision, God’s work in us will overflow into the world around us, bringing healing, renewal, and life to others.

Son of Man — What Does THAT Mean?

During today’s reading, I again noticed Ezekiel being constantly referred to as the “son of man.” So I would like to briefly explore what this phrase means, where we see it in Scripture, and why it is significant.

In the case of Ezekiel, “son of man” is meant to underscore his human frailty and his role as a representative of the people. Over 90 times, God addresses Ezekiel with this title, reminding him of his position as a mortal messenger delivering divine words. Ezekiel’s use of “son of man” connects him to the people of Israel, highlighting that, like them, he is a mere human with a responsibility to share God’s message, particularly concerning personal responsibility for sin and repentance (Ezekiel 33:10-20).

The title “son of man” also appears in Daniel 7:13-14, where “one like a son of man” is depicted as a divine figure who comes with the clouds of heaven and is given authority, glory, and sovereign power. This vision is messianic, pointing to a figure who will rule over all nations, and it is this aspect of the title that Jesus refers to when He calls Himself the “Son of Man.” His audience would have understood the profound implications of this self-designation, recognizing it as a claim to divine authority and fulfillment of the messianic prophecy.

So what does recognizing Jesus as the “Son of Man” mean for us today? This title carries profound implications for our lives and calls us to action in several key ways:

First, it reminds us that Jesus identifies with us. As the “son of man” from Ezekiel, Jesus shared in our humanity. He experienced the trials, temptations, and sufferings that we face. This means that when we struggle, we can turn to Jesus, knowing that He understands our pain. This shared experience is not just a point of empathy but a call for us to lean on Him in our weakness. We are encouraged to follow His example, living a life of obedience and reliance on God even in the face of suffering.

Second, it emphasizes Jesus’ authority. As the “son of man” from Daniel, He is the one given all power and dominion. This recognition demands our submission to His lordship. Jesus is not just a compassionate friend but the sovereign ruler of all creation. Our response should be one of reverence, acknowledging His authority in every aspect of our lives. This calls us to obedience, aligning our wills with His and allowing His authority to guide our decisions, actions, and attitudes.

Third, it assures us of God’s faithfulness. The “Son of Man” in Daniel’s vision is a direct prophecy of Jesus, who came once as foretold and will return on the clouds in glory. This fulfillment of prophecy demonstrates God’s unwavering faithfulness to His promises. He is true to His word, having already accomplished what He promised and guaranteeing that He will fulfill the rest in due time. This gives us great hope, especially in challenging times, knowing that God’s plans are sure and trustworthy. For those who trust in Him, this is a source of deep comfort. However, it also serves as a sober warning to those who live in rebellion, as God’s justice will ultimately prevail. Our response should be one of faith, trusting in God’s promises, and living in a way that reflects our confidence in His faithfulness.

Finally, we are reminded of our personal responsibility. As emphasized in Ezekiel 33:10-20, we are accountable for our actions and decisions. Recognizing Jesus as the “Son of Man” calls us to examine our lives, repent where necessary, and live in a way that honors God. This responsibility is not burdensome but a response to the grace and truth that we have received in Christ. It challenges us to live out our faith actively, taking seriously the call to follow Jesus in every area of our lives.

In sum, acknowledging Jesus as the “Son of Man” is more than just an intellectual assent; it is a transformative recognition that should shape how we live, think, and relate to God and others.

Ignoring God’s Warnings? Why Defiance Leads to Disaster

In Jeremiah 44:16-17, the people of Judah blatantly refuse to listen to the prophet’s warnings. They declare their intention to continue worshiping the “Queen of Heaven,” a pagan deity, despite knowing the consequences of their idolatry. This brazen attitude—choosing their own way over God’s commands—is strikingly similar to what we see in modern times. People often reject God’s Word, preferring to follow their desires or the cultural norms that make them feel more comfortable.

Similarly, in Ezekiel 33:21-33, we see another tragic example of misplaced trust. After hearing of Jerusalem’s fall, the people still do not repent. Instead, they continue to seek security in all the wrong places, including aligning themselves with enemies of God. The idea of trying to hide from God’s judgment in the arms of His enemies is tragically laughable, yet it reflects a deep spiritual blindness.

Fast forward to today, and the same attitudes persist. How often do people refuse to accept Biblical truths, choosing instead to live according to their own desires or societal trends? This is evident in countless ways—whether it’s justifying sin, ignoring God’s commands, or reshaping Christianity to fit modern sensibilities. The refusal to listen to God’s Word is as dangerous now as it was then, leading to spiritual ruin.

Moreover, just as the people of Judah sought refuge in the arms of God’s enemies, many today seek comfort or security in places that are directly opposed to God’s will. It might be in harmful relationships, unethical practices, or ideologies that stand in stark contrast to Biblical principles. This attempt to find safety or fulfillment outside of God’s will is as futile and destructive now as it was for the Israelites.

The lessons from Jeremiah and Ezekiel are clear: Rejecting God’s Word and seeking refuge in the wrong places lead only to disaster. The folly of trying to hide from God in the arms of His enemies is a timeless warning. As believers, we must remain steadfast in our commitment to God, listening to His Word and finding our security in Him alone.

It’s Okay to Grieve

In today’s readings from Lamentations 5, Obadiah 1, and Jeremiah 40-41, we’re reminded that even the most faithful servants of God, like Jeremiah, experience deep grief and sorrow. Jeremiah, who had prophesied the eventual restoration and glory of Jerusalem, was still profoundly affected by the immediate devastation and loss that he witnessed.

This leads us to an important understanding: Joy in the Christian life is not synonymous with constant happiness or a cheerful demeanor in all circumstances. Rather, true joy is rooted in the hope we have in God—a hope that endures even through tears and pain.

Lamentations 5 presents a vivid picture of the suffering and despair experienced by the people of Jerusalem after the city’s destruction. Yet, even in this darkest hour, there is a cry to God—a recognition that He is still sovereign and that restoration is possible. This cry is not a denial of the pain but a hopeful acknowledgment of God’s enduring faithfulness.

Jeremiah himself, though a prophet of hope, did not ignore the realities of his present situation. His grief was real, and it was valid. However, his joy was found not in the absence of sorrow but in the assurance that God’s promises would ultimately come to pass.

This distinction is crucial for us today. We may face circumstances that bring deep sorrow, and it’s important to acknowledge and feel that pain. But biblical joy is the strength that allows us to look to God through our tears, trusting that He is at work and that His promises are true. It’s the assurance that even in our darkest moments, God is with us, and He will see us through to the fulfillment of His good purposes.

Why Your Life Needs to Burn Down… Sometimes

When I read today’s passage, one thought struck me above the others: Israel, now “desolate,” would finally have its “Sabbath Rest.” This isn’t just about a nation lying in ruins—it’s about the spiritual renewal that only comes after the flames of destruction have swept through.

Imagine a forest. For centuries, forest fires were a natural part of its life cycle. The flames would burn away dead wood, making room for new growth. Today, we try to stop any fire from breaking out, thinking we’re protecting the forest. But without those periodic burns, the underbrush grows thick, the dead wood piles up, and eventually, a fire does come—and it’s far more devastating.

Israel’s desolation was like that necessary fire. The nation had accumulated so much spiritual “dead wood”—idolatry, injustice, and disobedience—that God allowed a cleansing fire to sweep through. This wasn’t just judgment; it was a reset, a forced Sabbath rest. In the ashes of what was, God was preparing the ground for what could be—a new beginning, a renewal.

What does this mean for us? Sometimes, God allows parts of our lives to “burn down” so that we can experience true spiritual renewal. We might resist, thinking we’re protecting ourselves, but without these periods of cleansing, the weight of unaddressed sin, unresolved issues, and spiritual complacency only grows. When God strips away what’s unnecessary, He’s making room for new growth—preparing us for something better.

So, if you’re going through a time of desolation, don’t despair. It might be that God is clearing the way for something new. Let the old burn away, and embrace the Sabbath rest He’s offering—a time to reflect, repent, and renew your commitment to Him. After the fire, new life will spring forth.

The Dangerous Mistress of Success

In Ezekiel 28:16, we see the fall of Tyre, a city once renowned for its wealth, beauty, and power. Tyre was a prominent trade center in the ancient world, its merchants known for their success and influence. However, with prosperity came pride, and with pride came corruption. The very success that elevated Tyre to great heights also led to its downfall.

Tyre’s history is marked by a dangerous attachment to wealth and power. As the city’s riches grew, so did its arrogance and sense of invulnerability. They trusted in their trade, their fortified city, and their alliances, believing that their success made them untouchable. But this self-sufficiency blinded them to their moral decay. Ezekiel speaks of how their “abundant trade” filled them with violence, and their heart became proud because of their beauty (Ezekiel 28:16-17).

God’s judgment came upon Tyre not just because of their external actions, but because of the internal corruption that wealth and success had fostered. The very thing they had put their trust in became their undoing. Their success, instead of being a blessing, became a snare.

Today, our culture often defines success in terms of wealth, power, and influence—much like Tyre. But success, when pursued as an end in itself, is a dangerous mistress. It can lead to pride, self-reliance, and a gradual turning away from God. Just as Tyre’s wealth led to its downfall, so too can our pursuit of success, if it causes us to forget who is truly in control.

The lesson from Tyre is clear: success is not inherently bad, but when it becomes our focus and our measure of worth, it can lead us away from God. True success is found in a life that honors God, recognizes His sovereignty, and uses blessings to further His kingdom, not just personal gain.

Rightly Jealous: Understanding God’s Jealousy

Jealousy is bad. Paul tells us so in Galatians 5. So why do we constantly read about God’s “good” jealousy in passages like today’s reading?

See, when we think of jealousy, it’s easy to imagine something negative—a destructive emotion rooted in envy or insecurity. Yet, when we read about God’s jealousy in Scripture, it is framed as pure, righteous, and entirely different from the jealousy that you and I experience.

God’s jealousy is not about envy. He does not covet something that isn’t rightfully His. Rather, His jealousy is about protecting the covenant relationship He has with us. Just as a spouse has the right to expect exclusive devotion and affection, God, who entered into a covenant with His people, rightfully demands our wholehearted love and loyalty.

This divine jealousy is not rooted in insecurity or a desire to control, but in the understanding that turning away from God leads to our own destruction. Just as a spouse would feel righteous jealousy if their partner’s affections were being shared with another, God’s jealousy arises when our hearts are divided and we pursue other “lovers”—whether that be idols, worldly desires, or anything that takes His rightful place in our lives.

On the other hand, human jealousy, when rooted in envy, is about desiring what belongs to someone else, whether it be their possessions, achievements, or relationships. This kind of jealousy is destructive and rooted in selfishness, leading to bitterness and resentment. In contrast, God’s jealousy is protective and stems from His love for us, knowing that only in Him can we find true fulfillment and peace.

Understanding the difference between these forms of jealousy helps us see why God’s jealousy is not only justified but is also an expression of His deep love for us. Just as we would be rightly jealous for the exclusive affection of our spouse, God’s jealousy is a reflection of His covenantal commitment to us, desiring our full and undivided devotion.

Grief, Glory, and God’s Eternal Purposes

Grief is a complex and deeply personal experience that manifests in various ways. Some people express it openly, with tears and lament, while others may internalize their sorrow, showing little outward signs of their inner turmoil. The Christian response to grief is multifaceted. We are called to mourn with those who mourn, showing compassion and empathy. Yet, as Christians, our response is also shaped by our hope in Christ and the knowledge that God is sovereign over all circumstances, even the painful ones.

Ezekiel’s experience in chapter 24, where he was commanded not to outwardly mourn the loss of his wife, reminds us that sometimes, grief is not just about expressing sorrow but about trusting in God’s greater plan. Outward expressions of grief can be important, but they are not the ultimate measure of our response to loss. True comfort comes from knowing that, despite the pain and suffering we experience, God is working all things together for His eternal purposes.

This doesn’t always lessen the immediate sting of grief, but it provides a framework for understanding our suffering within the larger context of God’s redemptive plan. We may not always understand the “why” behind our pain, but we can take small comfort in the reality that God is weaving even our grief into His glory-filled purposes.

The Allure of Destruction

Sin and evil rarely present themselves as dangerous or destructive. Instead, they are often wrapped in enticing packages, appealing to our fleshly desires and offering fleeting moments of pleasure. Whether it’s indulging in a secret sin, embracing a lifestyle that contradicts God’s commands, or simply turning a blind eye to the ways of the world, evil always promises quick rewards and instant gratification.

Yet, as today’s reading shows, the good times don’t last. The path of sin and evil ultimately leads us away from God and, therefore, away from salvation. As Ezekiel warned, sin’s consequences are dire. The destruction may not come immediately, but it is inevitable. What seemed like a harmless indulgence can quickly turn into a trap, leading to spiritual decay and, ultimately, destruction.

In Ezekiel 24:13, God speaks through the prophet about the people’s sins: “Because I tried to cleanse you, but you refused to be cleansed. So you will not be cleansed from your filthiness again until I have satisfied my fury on you.” The allure of sin led the people of Israel to resist God’s attempts at purification, and they suffered the consequences.

Today, we face similar temptations. The world offers countless distractions and temptations that seem harmless or even good on the surface. But if we are not vigilant, we risk being led down a path that takes us further from God. The temporary pleasures of sin are not worth the eternal consequences.

Let us not be fooled by the attractive facade of sin and evil. Instead, let us seek God’s wisdom and strength to resist temptation, knowing that true joy and peace come from following Him.

Defeat as Discipline

In today’s readings, we encounter a challenging truth: not every obstacle or hardship is meant to be overcome. Sometimes, the “bad things” that happen to us are actually God’s way of protecting or disciplining us.

Ezekiel 3:20 (NLT) presents a sobering warning: “If righteous people turn away from their righteous behavior and ignore the obstacles I put in their way, they will die. And if you do not warn them, they will die in their sins. None of their righteous acts will be remembered, and I will hold you responsible for their deaths.” Here, God emphasizes that even the righteous are not exempt from discipline. If they turn away from their righteousness, God may place obstacles in their path, not to be overcome, but as a form of discipline.

In Jeremiah 28, the false prophet Hananiah tells the people of Judah that God will break the yoke of Babylon and free them within two years. However, Jeremiah counters this by saying that their captivity is God’s will and must be endured. Hananiah’s false prophecy leads to his death, underscoring the severity of trying to escape or misrepresent God’s discipline.

These passages remind us that not every challenge is meant to be overcome. Sometimes, what we perceive as obstacles are actually God’s protective hand or corrective discipline at work. When we try to “escape” these challenges, we might miss the lesson or the protection God intends for us.

Rather than rushing to overcome every difficulty, we need to ask ourselves: Is this obstacle God’s way of protecting me? Is this hardship His discipline? Trusting in God’s plan, even when it involves discomfort, can lead to greater growth and alignment with His will.