ESOCS Devotional 8 August 2022
TEXT: EZEKIEL 19:11-16
MEMORY VERSE: “But she was plucked up in fury, she was cast down to the ground, and the east wind dried up her fruit: her strong rods were broken and withered; the fire consumed them.”Ezekiel 19:12 KJV
0 And the apostles, when they had returned, told Him all that they had done. Then He took them and went aside privately into a deserted place belonging to the city called Bethsaida. 11 But when the multitudes knew it, they followed Him; and He received them and spoke to them about the kingdom of God, and healed those who had need of healing. 12 When the day began to wear away, the twelve came and said to Him, “Send the multitude away, that they may go into the surrounding towns and country, and lodge and get provisions; for we are in a deserted lace ”
The lamentation (cry and warning) against the children of Israel was captured in the light of an instance drawn from a Prince and his lioness Mother – both didn’t rely on the Strength of God, but acted according to their folly, as a result of their strength. But they ended up tragically, as their strength were conquered by their enemies (Zach. 4:6).
God, according to His mercies and kindness would provide the church gifts and bestow offices and grace upon her – and to you as part of the church. All these grace are basically to serve God in Spirit, and in truth, and not to boast with them, for our vain glory (John 4:24). We ought to be like Jesus Christ, who, despite all the glory and power given to Him didn’t exalt Himself, neither did He count it robbery to be made equal with God (the FATHER). He was humble until death, and served in extreme humility (Phil. 2:6-8).
However, His meekness graduated Him into a higher status beyond every other names, and by that, He has Power, authority and capacity above them all (Phil. 6:9-10). This is because He humbled Himself and worked according to God’s instructions. Again, He didn’t let His glory overwhelm Him. So, it is important to note that the downfall of brethren and the church is lack of reverence to God – to serve in humility; and being sober, and conscious of He who has sent us.
No matter what gifts, splendor and glory the Lord has bestowed on you, no matter what position you occupy in the society or in your work place, the Lord wants you to know that you’re there simply because He alone kept you there; and without Him, you can do nothing.
- Repent today and pray!
- Lord, give me the grace and spirit of humility so that I will not live a life of pride.
Read Other ESOCS Devotional here
FURTHER READING: Ezekiel 19:11-16; John 19:17-24; Hebrews 4:1-10
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ESOCS Devotional 8 August 2022
