How can Ezekiel 41:11 inspire us to create sacred spaces in our lives? Setting the scene in Ezekiel 41 “There were two doorways into the side rooms, one on the south and another on the north, each with a doorway in front of it. The width of the wall on each side was five cubits.” (Ezekiel 41:11) Why the detail matters • God gave Ezekiel a literal tour of a future temple to underline His holiness and order. • Every measurement, doorway, and wall communicates that worship is not random; sacred space is intentional (cf. Exodus 25:8-9). Key observations from verse 11 • Two doorways – specific, designated points of entry. • Doorway “in front” – clear approach, no confusion about how to enter. • Five-cubit walls – thick, protective boundaries. Principles we can draw 1. Intentional design • God plans His dwelling places precisely; we should plan environments that facilitate communion with Him (1 Corinthians 14:33). 2. Controlled access • Doorways invite in but also limit what enters. Our lives need disciplines that welcome the Spirit and resist defilement (James 4:7-8). 3. Protective boundaries • The five-cubit walls remind us to guard what is holy. Holiness thrives when sin is kept out (2 Corinthians 6:16-18). Creating sacred spaces today • Personal space – Set aside a consistent spot and time for Scripture and prayer. – Remove digital distractions; add a Bible, journal, and perhaps a hymnbook. • Family space – Establish a room or table where Bibles stay open, conversations center on Christ, and media is filtered. – Schedule family devotions, reinforcing that the home belongs to God (Deuteronomy 6:6-7). • Church space – Participate in maintaining a reverent atmosphere before services; arrive early, pray, greet others warmly. – Support efforts to keep the sanctuary free from clutter and worldly intrusions (Psalm 96:9). • Community space – Offer hospitality: dedicate your living room or backyard to Bible studies or fellowship meals (1 Peter 4:9-10). – Volunteer to help create prayer rooms, chapels, or quiet zones in schools, hospitals, and workplaces. Guarding the doorways • Examine influences entering your mind through entertainment, reading, and conversation (Philippians 4:8). • Practice confession and repentance to keep the interior clean (1 John 1:9). • Fill the “side rooms” of your schedule with service and worship rather than idle pursuits (Ephesians 5:15-16). Encouragement to persevere “You yourselves are God’s temple, and God’s Spirit dwells in you.” (1 Corinthians 3:16) As God’s living temples, we honor Him by designing, protecting, and regularly using sacred spaces. Ezekiel’s measured doorways and sturdy walls call us to measurable, sturdy commitments that keep our lives open to the Lord and closed to corruption. |
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