My center…. (devo reflection)

Ezekiel 27:25 “‘The ships of Tarshish serve as carriers for your wares. You are filled with heavy cargo as you sail the sea.”
Psalm 46:5 comes heavily to mind as I read this chapter: “God dwells in that city; it cannot be destroyed. From the very break of day, God will protect it.” Just like yesterday, the issue here is one of sharp contrasts. In the Psalm, because God is in the city, the city cannot be destroyed. In this chapter, the city of Tyre is a powerful, magnificent trading port, yet God is no where within the city. All the riches, all the beauty and craftsmanship, all the money and power come to absolutely nothing without God at its center.
Ezekiel 27:26 “Your oarsmen take you out to the high seas. But the east wind will break you to pieces far out at sea.”
For me, the message is easy to connect to our modern life. There is so much value placed on appearances, on wealth and power and influence. So many are chasing the almighty dollar or pervasive influence over others. But if God isn’t within us, if He’s not our center, we can’t stand. This world is not our home. Our end goal is not here. Our reward is in heaven. Jesus, Help me never forget that.
Ezekiel 27:27 “Your wealth, merchandise and wares, your mariners, sailors and shipwrights, your merchants and all your soldiers, and everyone else on board will sink into the heart of the sea on the day of your shipwreck.”
Lord, Thank You for the reminder that this world is not my home, that I am not chasing the things the world deems important. Help me to keep You at my center so that I can stand strong in You. Amen.
Ezekiel 27:28 “The shorelands will quake when your sailors cry out.”
Have a blessed day.