What lessons can we learn from the desolation described in Ezekiel 33:28? The Prophetic Warning in Ezekiel 33:28 “I will make the land a desolation and a horror, and the pride of her strength will cease; and the mountains of Israel will be so desolate that no one will pass through.” Historical Snapshot • Ezekiel speaks to exiles who assumed Jerusalem’s fall meant God’s promises were void; the Lord reminds them His covenant still stands—and so do its stipulations (Deuteronomy 28:15–68). • The ruin of the land is not random calamity but the righteous consequence of persistent rebellion. Timeless Lessons • God’s Word never falters – Every threat and every promise carries equal weight (Numbers 23:19). – The same voice that pledged the land to Abraham also decreed its devastation when defiled (Leviticus 26:27–33). • Sin empties our “proud strength” – National power, personal talent, or church reputation collapses when pride replaces humble obedience (Proverbs 16:18; 1 Peter 5:5–6). • The land belongs to the Lord – Psalm 24:1 frames stewardship, not ownership; misuse invites removal. – Modern application: careers, resources, and platforms are held on God’s terms. • Judgment begins with God’s people – “It is time for judgment to begin with the household of God” (1 Peter 4:17). – Discipline purifies witness so the world sees holiness, not hypocrisy. • Consequences can outlive the sinner – Desolation meant generations would tread barren soil. – Today’s choices carve tomorrow’s landscape for families and nations (Exodus 34:7). • Silence of the land underscores God’s voice – Empty mountains shouted louder than prophets about the gravity of rebellion. – When God removes blessings, He amplifies the need to listen (Amos 8:11). God’s Heart Behind the Desolation • “I take no pleasure in anyone’s death… so repent and live!” (Ezekiel 18:32; 33:11). • Judgment is remedial, not arbitrary—aimed at turning hearts back. Hope Beyond Ruin • Same prophet promises restoration: “I will sprinkle clean water on you… I will give you a new heart” (Ezekiel 36:24–28). • God’s mercies are “new every morning” (Lamentations 3:22–23). • Desolation is never God’s last word; repentance opens the door to renewal (2 Chronicles 7:14). Putting It into Practice • Examine areas where pride masks dependence on the Lord. • Align stewardship of possessions and influence with God’s standards. • Receive discipline as an invitation to deeper intimacy, not as rejection (Hebrews 12:5–11). • Cling to the certainty that repentance ushers in restoration, just as surely as sin invites desolation (Romans 11:22; Galatians 6:7). |
    |