September 20, 2021

Read – Ezekiel 28What does it say?
Ezekiel prophesied the violent death of Tyre’s ruler, who thought he was a god because of his wealth and wisdom.

What does it mean?
Ethbaal III, the ruler of Tyre, fell prey to the same temptation presented to Eve in the Garden of Eden, “You will be like God.” Ezekiel’s lament alludes to Satan’s influence over the king, comparing the rise and fall of each. Both were given positions of great power, but just as Satan took credit for his God-given beauty and wisdom, Ethbaal’s pride grew alongside his wealth, eventually leading to wicked and violent behavior. The Lord removed both in disgrace from their places of honor. Similar to Ethbaal’s appalling death, Satan and his reign on Earth will come to a horrible end when Jesus returns.

How should I respond?
Long ago Satan was removed from God’s angelic ranks and will one day be thrown into the lake of fire for eternity – Luke 10:18; Rev. 20:10. But as long as he roams and rules the Earth, we have to be on our guard against his constant appeals to our pride – 1 Peter 5:8. He still tries to convince us that our accomplishments are our own doing. Or he makes us think that we’re wise enough to make decisions without regard for God’s Word. Think back through your week – how many sinful thoughts or actions were rooted in an attitude of pride? Today, take God at His Word so you won’t fall for the oldest temptation in the book – Proverbs 16:18.