At the time of my writing this passage, and it has been for quite some time, there is a significant amount of division in the world. It seems as though everyone has a beef with someone else and everyone is “fighting” to not be excluded in something.
I was led to Ezekiel 37 this morning as I continue to study the word “obey” and what I found addresses this division. In the passage, verses 15-28, Ezekiel is laying out the reunification of the northern and southern kingdoms of Israel. And as noted in the commentary found in my ESV Bible for verses 21-22, “This renewed national unity requires a secure national home…under the rule of one king”. The one king is David and the “national home” is the promised land.
Before I move on, I have to mention that I am not someone that believes in the rule of one man for a nation. I do however believe in my Lord as King of heaven and earth, and I stand by Him.
The unification as I see it here in this passage is related to everyone being together in their following of one set of criteria. That criteria or plan or guidance is set forth by God.
“24My servant David shall be king over them, and they shall all have one shepherd. They shall walk in my rules and be careful to obey my statutes.” – Ezekiel 37:24 (ESV)
When I am able to align myself with those of like mind and action, I find myself in a position of unification. And when that unity is based on the statutes of God, I am unstoppable and will certainly prosper like no other in this world. God will commune with me and I with Him in His greatness and the love He has for me.
“27My dwelling place shall be with them, and I will be their God and they shall be my people 28Then the nations will know that I am the LORD who sanctifies Israel, with my sanctuary is in their midst forevermore.” – Ezekiel 37:27-28 (ESV)
It seems to me that the division we are experiencing in this world today is related to our not having a secure home under one king. Each of us are seeking our own glory as opposed to banding together for the glory found in one path. Businesses, athletic teams, non-profit organizations, churches, and school districts all great create missions, visions, and goals to be sure that everyone is doing what is best for the organization. Does it not make sense for the world to do the same?
The good thing is that we have that mission, vision, and goals already established for us as laid out in the word of God. And our king, well pretty obvious I am talking about God and our “secure national home”, well, is the kingdom of God. When we are all obeying the statutes laid out by God, we will carry out the work of God and thereby our unity naturally manifests.
Where are you looking for your guidance? Are you looking to find your “secure national home” in the kingdom of God? Are you looking to obey the statutes of God in your quest for unity?
Trevor's Thoughts 