What can we learn about God's sovereignty from Ezekiel 24:25? Setting the Scene • In Ezekiel 24 the siege of Jerusalem begins. • God tells Ezekiel to mark “this very day” (v. 2), then compares Jerusalem to a pot set on the fire. • Verse 25 turns personal: the prophet will soon lose “their stronghold—their joy and glory, the desire of their eyes… as well as their sons and daughters.” The Verse Itself “And you, son of man, on the day I take from them their stronghold — their joy and glory, the desire of their eyes, and the longing of their souls — as well as their sons and daughters,” (Ezekiel 24:25) Key Observations About God’s Sovereignty • “On the day I take…” – God sets the calendar; human events unfold on His timetable (Isaiah 46:9-10). • “I take from them” – possession is ultimately God’s, not ours (Psalm 24:1). • “Their stronghold, joy, glory… sons and daughters” – He can touch every category of security: property, reputation, pleasure, even family (Job 1:21). • The verse predicts something impossible to prevent; divine purpose overrides human resistance (Proverbs 19:21). • God reveals the plan beforehand, showing foreknowledge and authority (Amos 3:7; John 13:19). Wider Biblical Echoes • Nations: God raises up and brings down kingdoms (Daniel 2:21; 4:34-35). • Individuals: He directs every step (Proverbs 16:9). • Salvation history: Even the cross followed a “predetermined plan and foreknowledge of God” (Acts 2:23). Practical Take-Aways • Security rests in the Sovereign, not in the gifts He lends. • Because He controls timing, waiting seasons are purposeful (Psalm 31:15). • Sorrow under His hand can be trusted; discipline is love-driven (Hebrews 12:6-11). • His sovereignty fuels humble worship: “Our God is in heaven; He does whatever pleases Him” (Psalm 115:3). Living This Truth • Yield today’s plans to the One who can “take” or “give” in a moment. • Hold relationships and possessions with open hands, stewarding them for His glory. • Let the certainty of His rule quiet fear when strongholds crumble; He remains unshaken (Psalm 46:1-2). |
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