How can we apply the warning in Ezekiel 17:15 to modern life? Setting the Scene Ezekiel 17:15: “But this king rebelled against him by sending his envoys to Egypt to get horses and a large army. Will he prosper? Will the one who does such things escape? Can he break the covenant and yet escape?” Key Truths to Grasp • God takes covenants—promises, contracts, commitments—seriously. • Seeking security in human alliances instead of trusting the Lord invites judgment. • Broken promises erode both personal integrity and national stability. Modern Parallels • Business contracts signed, then quietly ignored when inconvenient. • Marriage vows cast aside for “greener pastures.” • Churches altering clear biblical positions to curry favor with culture. • Political leaders pledging one course yet choosing another when polls shift. Principles for Today 1. Honor Every Covenant • Psalm 15:4b: “He who keeps his oath even when it hurts.” • Christians should treat a signature as sacred; our “Yes” must remain “Yes” (Matthew 5:37). • Default posture: fulfill commitments unless doing so would require sin. 2. Trust God Above Human Backup Plans • Psalm 20:7: “Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.” • Ezekiel’s king thought Egyptian cavalry could bail him out. Modern equivalents: savings accounts, political connections, social media influence. • Wise stewardship is good; ultimate confidence belongs to the Lord alone (Proverbs 3:5-6). 3. Reject Expedient Rebellion • Romans 13:1-2 commands submission to governing authorities unless they order disobedience to God. • Work for change through righteous means, not back-channel betrayals that mirror Israel’s treachery. 4. Count the Cost Before Promising • Ecclesiastes 5:4-5 warns against rash vows. • Before volunteering, signing, or pledging, pause to ask: “Can I finish what I start? Will this honor Christ long-term?” Practical Action Steps • Review current commitments—marital, financial, ministry, civic. Identify any you are tempted to abandon. • Confess broken promises to God; seek restitution where possible. • Build accountability—invite a trusted believer to ask regularly about follow-through. • Teach children and new believers the weight of covenant-keeping through family devotions and small-group study. • When facing pressure to compromise, rehearse Ezekiel 17:15 aloud; let its questions search your heart: – “Will he prosper?” – “Can he break the covenant and yet escape?” Encouragement for the Faithful God delights to bless those who cling to integrity: “The LORD rewards every man’s righteousness and faithfulness” (1 Samuel 26:23). Living true to our word may be costly, but it positions us under His unfailing protection and favor. |
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