How can we ensure God's presence remains in our lives today? Witnessing the Glory Depart “And the cherubim lifted their wings and rose up from the earth before my eyes, with the wheels beside them. And they stood at the entrance of the east gate of the LORD’s house, and the glory of the God of Israel was above them.” • The scene is heartbreaking: the tangible glory of God leaving the temple because persistent sin had pushed Him out of the very place built for His name. • It is a sober reminder that God’s presence is not automatically guaranteed where rebellion is tolerated. Why the Glory Left Then—and Leaves Now • Idolatry (Ezekiel 8) replaced wholehearted devotion. • Leaders refused to repent, so judgment followed (Ezekiel 9). • When sin is cherished, God’s manifested presence withdraws, even though His omnipresence never ceases. Guarding His Presence in the New Covenant The temple is now personal and corporate: “Do you not know that you yourselves are God’s temple, and that God’s Spirit dwells in you?” Because Christ has made His home in believers, we can host what Israel lost—if we walk in obedience. Five Daily Commitments That Keep His Presence Evident 1. Whole-hearted love and obedience • John 14:23 – “If anyone loves Me, he will keep My word… We will come to him and make Our home with him.” • Quick obedience keeps fellowship unbroken. 2. Continual repentance • James 4:8 – “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands…” • Sin confessed immediately prevents dull hearts. 3. Spirit-filled living • Galatians 5:16 – “Walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” • 1 Thessalonians 5:19 – “Do not quench the Spirit.” • Yielded steps invite His active nearness. 4. Worship and gratitude • Psalm 16:11 – “You will fill me with joy in Your presence.” • Praise enthrones God in daily life, reminding us He is welcome. 5. Covenant community • 2 Corinthians 6:16 – “I will dwell with them and walk among them.” • Gathering with believers strengthens the collective dwelling place of God. Warnings Embedded in Ezekiel’s Vision • Religious activity cannot substitute for purity. • Leadership and people alike are accountable for maintaining holiness. • Delayed repentance risks experiencing what Judah did—a tragic departure. Promises That Anchor Our Confidence • Matthew 28:20 – “I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” • Hebrews 13:5 – “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” The covenant guarantee is unbreakable; the manifest enjoyment of it depends on our response. As we treasure Christ, obey His words, and stay sensitive to His Spirit, the glory that once left the temple remains in and among us, shining through our lives for the world to see. |
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