PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Ezekiel 29-30
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“Egypt will no longer be a source of confidence for the people of Israel but will be a reminder of their sin in turning to her for help. ” (Ezekiel 29:16)
We live in a world that is collectively in rebellion against God.
In our world there are the major powers and players, and the little people.
Egypt was not only a major power, but for Israel represented THE superpower.
They had been slaves under Egypt for centuries; its name meant suffering and death.
Yet again and again the people seem to be attracted to its power and wealth.
They could not help but be impressed by – and confident in – its worldly glory!
Satan tries to tempt Jesus with the splendour of the worldly kingdoms (Matthew 4:8-10).
But Jesus knows that this is a worship issue, of where we place our confidence.
Those who seek to raise the glory of their own nations fall into the same trap.
Superpowers are not what they seem, and the little people are not so little.
Jesus and his followers were not impressive in their time, yet they changed the world.
Following Jesus and the Jesus Way is not a way to make ourselves or nation great again.
It is a lowly path of trusting and serving God like Jesus did, in humility and grace.
PRAYER
Lord, forgive me when I get distracted by worldly wealth and power. Remind me how today’s superpowers are as fragile and unreliable as Egypt, and will go the same way!
Who do I turn to for help? “a reminder of their sin in turning to her for help.”
When Israel/Judah turned to help from Egypt – and not the Lord – they looked to earthly power. We do too – yet even powerful nations like USA/China/Russia – needs to know that you are in charge. When it comes to personal things – who do I turn to – where to I get my help. Often I lean on my own understanding or cosy up to those I think can help me – but really I’m guilty of the same thing. God expects that I will call on him (Ps 50:15) and He is more than ready to come with durable help. Lord I often stand in the way and I neglect to call on you! Forgive me and help me to learn – remind me again and again as you reminded your then and now!
God is the Lord over all.
Even today when nations arise against nations to show their might and wealth, they will fall and fail. They put their trust in their army and missiles, their own might and power. They too will eventually know that the Lord God is in charge. That knowledge is my hope this day and every day. This is my Father’s world and in that knowledge I go forward each day to serve Him.
This is my Father’s world:
O let me ne’er forget
That though the wrong seems oft so strong,
God is the Ruler yet.
This is my Father’s world:
Why should my heart be sad?
The Lord is King: let the heavens ring!
God reigns; let earth be glad!