November 27, 2006 - Ezekiel 30-32 and I Peter 4
The prophecies of Ezekiel in chapters 30-32 should be a great testimony to us about the rule of God in this world and the truth of His Word. I am sure it is hard for us to conceive of the greatness of Egypt in the time of the Pharaohs, because in our lifetime Egypt has not been a power in the world much less a spectacular world power. However, in Ezekiel's time and before Egypt was one of the greatest kingdoms in the world. What happened? I believe they had their chance to worship the true God of the universe, and they rejected Him, so He rejected them and brought them down. That is what these prophecies tell us, and that is what we have seen to be the truth over the last 2,500 years. One question that this has to bring to mind is, "Will the same thing happen to America, since our country has rejected God, too?" I don't know the plan of God, but I believe this is a possible outcome of our rebellion against God and a reason America is not mentioned in the prophecies of the end times.
I Peter 4 is a blunt directive for us as believers in an unbelieving world. We must put off the flesh and cease living in the lusts of the flesh. (v.2) That would solve a multitude of problems. Then, we could get on with the spiritual side of life, to live the Spirit filled life. (v.7-11) However, if a believer is addicted to the lusts of the flesh, he or she will never live the Spirit filled life. It is as simple as that. We must let God deliver us from those things. The end of time is at hand. (v.7) We must be faithful to suffer with Jesus. (v.13) We must begin judgment with ourselves, not with those who do not believe. (v.17) It is supposed to be our holy lifestyle that draws people to Jesus, so if we are missing it, how will they come to Him? (v.18) Let's give ourselves body, soul, and spirit to the Lord for His use and for His glory.
Tomorrow, I intend to read Ezekiel 33-34 and I Peter 5.
I Peter 4 is a blunt directive for us as believers in an unbelieving world. We must put off the flesh and cease living in the lusts of the flesh. (v.2) That would solve a multitude of problems. Then, we could get on with the spiritual side of life, to live the Spirit filled life. (v.7-11) However, if a believer is addicted to the lusts of the flesh, he or she will never live the Spirit filled life. It is as simple as that. We must let God deliver us from those things. The end of time is at hand. (v.7) We must be faithful to suffer with Jesus. (v.13) We must begin judgment with ourselves, not with those who do not believe. (v.17) It is supposed to be our holy lifestyle that draws people to Jesus, so if we are missing it, how will they come to Him? (v.18) Let's give ourselves body, soul, and spirit to the Lord for His use and for His glory.
Tomorrow, I intend to read Ezekiel 33-34 and I Peter 5.