ESOCS Devotional 3 July 2021
TEXT: EZEKIEL 36:22-28
MEMORY VERSE: “Therefore say unto the house of Israel, Thus saith the Lord God; I do not this for your sakes, O House of Israel, but for mine Holy name’s sake, which ye have profaned among the heathen, whither ye went.” (Ezekiel 36:22 KJV).
The meaning of the names we bear is deeper than we may know. Names mean our reputation, character, status, integrity, standing, etc. Imagine, then, the name of God! God is Holy, and His name too is Holy, such that He jealously protects it against blasphemy through any act of ungodliness. He scattered Israel into many heathen nations because of their sin; yet, they continued profaning His name even among those heathen nations where they settled. They merited His punishment. However, He did not allow those nations to destroy them in order to protect His name. But, why did God want to protect His Holy name – His reputation?
First, He was concerned about the salvation of Israel and the whole world. Again, to allow Israel to remain in sin and be permanently destroyed by these nations would make them and the other nations think that the heathen gods were more powerful than Israel’s God (Him). Also, He can never give His glory to another (Isaiah 48:11). He alone is the only true and righteous God; He had expected them to live righteously too.
Believers today have the responsibility to represent God properly to the rest of the world through their character. How do we behave in our communities, churches, work places, or elsewhere outside these places? Do we represent the image and name of God? Don’t live another person’s life; God may show mercy on the person but turn His back on you. Live up to your covenant with Him. His name is Awesome, Holy, and a memorial unto all generations forever. Live godly to protect His name anywhere you are.
- List lifestyles that make you misrepresent God, and stop them.
- Ask God to help you overcome these lifestyles.
Read Other ESOCS Devotional here
FURTHER READING: Exodus 3:13-15; Isaiah 9:6; Psalm 99:3
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ESOCS Devotional 3 July 2021
