Ezekiel 27:1-28:26, 33:21-33
Some people think being a Christian ought to guarantee health, wealth, and happiness. And in a sense, they are right. God created Adam and Eve who enjoyed all that and more in the Garden of Eden. But when sin entered the picture, things changed. Forever.
Jerusalem was in ruins. And Ezekiel tells us the Jews were questioning God. Shouldn’t they, as descendants of Abraham, “possess the land”?
God, through Ezekiel in chapter 33 reminds them that as long as sin exists, as long as they disobey God’s commands, they will not possess the land.
He goes on to say God is not impressed with their worship. They listen to the Word but don’t put it into practice. They express devotion but their hearts are greedy for unjust gain.
Ezekiel says you might as well go to a concert and enjoy the music, admire the talented musicians, and be thrilled by the performance for all the good it does to hear God’s Word and not be moved to action. The result is the same. You leave the venue unchanged.
God would remind us today that we cannot enjoy the things God created us to have – joy, fellowship with our holy God, peace, strength, hope – as long as sin exists in our lives.
The question is: what are you going to do about it? Did you go to church yesterday and hear the Truth proclaimed from the pulpit? Did you allow God to speak to you today when you read his Word? Have you felt him nudge you toward talking to your neighbor or co-worker about the Lord? Have you felt conviction over a sin you’ve committed?
Hearing is the first step. But it’s not the only step. We need to get out there and obey, allowing God’s Word to change us from the inside so we can live for him in the day to day.
Remember, you can’t possess the land, you can’t have that sweet fellowship with the Lord if you have sin in your heart.
Material health and wealth aren’t the focus here. What is important is your heart’s condition in light of Scripture. I pray that you will allow God to defeat sin in your life as you confess and repent. Then you will possess the “land” he has in store for you.
And there is a great view from there!
alighttomyway 
We all seem to want to enjoy material wealth, and think that God is Santa Claus, there to give us what we want. But a good father will give us only what is best for us. Oh Lord, help us to focus on what is really important. Great post.
I am so thankful for our good Father who knows what is best for us. And that is so much better than we can ask or think. May God bless you and make you a blessing, my friend.
I really like and appreciate this comment: “Material health and wealth aren’t the focus here. What is important is your heart’s condition in light of Scripture.” Much truth! Thank you! 🙂
Thanks, Toni. I just want to have my priorities straight!