How should Ezekiel 22:25 influence our prayers for church leadership? Setting the Scene Ezekiel 22 describes God’s charges against Jerusalem. In verse 25 He zeroes in on the city’s leaders: “There is a conspiracy of her princes within her. Like a roaring lion tearing its prey, they devour people, they seize treasures and precious things, and make many widows within her.” The Spirit sets before us a literal snapshot of corrupt rulers who conspire, consume, and capitalize on the vulnerable—a timeless warning for every generation of God’s people. Key Observations from Ezekiel 22:25 • Conspiracy: leadership acting in secret agreement against God’s ways • Predatory power: “roaring lion” pictures unchecked aggression • Human cost: “they devour people,” lives are destroyed • Greed: “seize treasures and precious things,” abusing resources • Collateral sorrow: “make many widows,” the weakest suffer most Parallels in New-Testament Leadership Standards • Acts 20:28—overseers must guard the flock, not exploit it • 1 Peter 5:2-3—shepherd willingly, eagerly, free from greedy motives • 1 Timothy 3:2-3—above reproach, gentle, not lovers of money • John 10:11—Jesus lays down His life; true leaders imitate Him • 1 Peter 5:8—the devil prowls “like a roaring lion”; corrupt leadership echoes that enemy Prayer Points Shaped by Ezekiel 22:25 • Integrity that kills every hint of conspiracy or hidden agenda • Protective courage so leaders guard, not devour, the flock • Humility that serves instead of grasping for power • Financial purity and transparent stewardship of church resources • Tender care for widows, orphans, and all who are vulnerable • Spirit-given boldness to expose and uproot corruption quickly • Unity around Scripture as the supreme authority for decisions • Continual repentance that keeps hearts soft before God • Supernatural protection from the enemy who prowls to destroy • Raising up of shepherds after God’s heart (Jeremiah 3:15) Praying with Hope This verse delivers a sober caution, yet it also fuels expectation. When we intercede for leaders to embody the opposite of the “roaring lion,” we cooperate with God’s passion for a pure, protective, and self-sacrificing shepherding of His people. |
    |