What lessons can we learn from the lioness's actions in Ezekiel 19:3? Setting the Scene in Ezekiel 19 “She brought up one of her cubs, and he became a strong lion. He learned to tear the prey, and he devoured men.” – Ezekiel 19:3 Observing the Lioness’s Actions • Nurtures a single cub with focused attention • Guides him to physical and social maturity—“he became a strong lion” • Intentionally trains him in predatory skill—“he learned to tear the prey” • Releases him to act on that training—“he devoured men” Lesson 1: Parental Influence Shapes Future Character • The lioness models how deliberate parenting creates deliberate outcomes (cf. Proverbs 22:6). • What we cultivate in children—courage or cruelty—often grows to full strength. Lesson 2: Training Determines Direction • Skill-building is morally neutral until purpose is defined. • Like the young lion, leaders can be schooled in aggression rather than justice (Psalm 94:20). Lesson 3: Strength Without Godly Restraint Turns Destructive • Power detached from righteousness devours instead of protects (Proverbs 28:16). • Self-control, a fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23), must temper every God-given ability. Lesson 4: Leadership Accountability Before God • The cub portrays Judah’s princes; their brutality toward people provoked divine judgment (Ezekiel 19:4). • Earthly authority is always under higher authority (Romans 13:1-2). Lesson 5: Consequences Are Inevitable • The narrative quickly shifts to capture and exile (Ezekiel 19:4-9). • “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked; for whatever a man sows, he will reap in return.” – Galatians 6:7 Living It Out Today • Cultivate virtue, not just competence, in those you mentor. • Evaluate whether your influence equips others to serve or to dominate. • Channel God-given talents toward building up the body of Christ (1 Peter 4:10-11). • Remember that every choice carries a harvest; sow righteousness now for peace later (Isaiah 32:17). |
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