Worship

Scripture

When I was a high school teacher I often heard the phrase “act your age.” As students were entering 9th grade and growing into maturity, there was a new, higher expectation for their conduct. This growth was confusing at times and often came with some strange behavior. I had students asking for financial advice one day and breaking down into tears about a late assignment the next. They were desperate to be ready for adulthood but they still found themselves trapped in childlike reactions.

Of course, there is ample grace for children as they begin their journey into adulthood. I believe many of my students were just kiddos in big bodies. At the same time, some of them needed a strong nudge in the right direction. They needed what the world likes to call “tough love.”

As a teacher, my goal was to prepare my students for a time when the grace of childhood would end. I remember having a conversation with a particular student who strongly believed they were ready to enter the “real world,” but still acted out in class, couldn’t control their tongue, and regularly ended up in detention. I decided they needed the “tough” kind of love. I told them this, “if you don’t want to be treated like a baby, stop acting like one.” Harsh, I know. But far more gracious than what they were stepping into after graduation.

As I read through Ezekiel, I come back to the same word; harsh. This is some serious “tough love.” But it is still love! God knows what’s best for His children and He knows their adulterous hearts will only lead to misery! Because of His love for them, He says what needs to be said. He calls them spiritual prostitutes. The heaviness of the situation calls for some rather intense comparisons. Such a strong metaphor can feel like alot to stomach, but God uses this strong language to shock His people from their spiritual infidelity. 

Seek the Lord and ask Him to reveal the parts of your heart that sell themselves to other idols. Even if you think you’ve gone too far, He is gracious to forgive the weight of sin if we’ll just return to Him. 

Prayer

HONOR GOD

God is more concerned with your willingness to glorify Him than what you have to offer Him. Will you honor Him, now, with what you have? Take a moment and give Him your best praise in prayer.

ASK GOD

God is ready to meet you in your time of need. Where do you need God’s grace?

SUBMIT TO GOD

CLOSING PRAYER

Father, help me to cling to your promises for they are the realest thing I have. They are true and everlasting. Do not allow me to give up your promises for simple earthly pleasures or moments of weakness. Keep me from the temptations of the enemy and may your Holy Spirit guide me in my walk each and everyday.  In Jesus Name, Amen.