September 8, 2018
What does it say?
Jerusalem would bear the consequences of prostituting her God-given beauty and fame. God’s atonement and everlasting covenant will cause her to know that He is the Lord.
What does it mean?
Ezekiel’s second parable portrays Israel as an adulterous wife. With the Lord as her Provider and Protector, Jerusalem was widely known for her wealth and beauty. When fame turned to pride, the people forgot God’s faithfulness to their covenant relationship. The blessings of the Lord were used to create and worship idols as Israel sought security in allying with enemies of the Lord. The punishment for Jerusalem’s spiritual adultery was the death of this once magnificent city. During the Millennium, however, Jerusalem will be completely restored under the New Covenant. The Lord’s atoning sacrifice will bring new understanding that He alone is Lord.
How should I respond?
Christians are in a covenant relationship with God. We pledge to follow and serve Christ; He promises provision, guidance, and unconditional love. Sounds wonderful, right? So why are we sometimes unfaithful to such a faithful God? Like Israel, we tend to focus on the things God has provided rather than the Lord Himself. Before you know it, something other than Christ has hold of your affections. How might you be committing spiritual adultery? Ask God for a new perspective on anything that has taken His place as Lord in your life.