Ezekiel 19:10 “‘Your mother was like a vine in your vineyard planted by the water; it was fruitful and full of branches because of abundant water.’”
The last line of Ezekiel 19:14 is pretty clear: “This is a lament and is to be used as a lament.” The time for voluntary repentance and return has passed. Now is time for judgment. I truly doubt the Israelites, so used to wallowing in their own sin, had any real concept of the significance, but Ezekiel did. God did.
Ezekiel 19:11 “‘Its branches were strong, fit for a ruler’s scepter. It towered high above the thick foliage, conspicuous for its height and for its many branches.’”
Of course I’ve not yet seen God face-to-face and I’m limited by my human perspective, but I think this was not just an official lament to be carried out by the prophet. I think God cares deeply about His children, wants them to follow Him and live abundant, full lives. I think it hurts His heart when we choose our own stubborn pride over His provision.
Ezekiel 19:12 “‘But it was uprooted in fury and thrown to the ground. The east wind made it shrivel, it was stripped of its fruit; its strong branches withered and fire consumed them.’”
Lord, Thank You for this glimpse into Your heart. Thank You that You love us so much that You lament when we choose our will over Yours. Help me to keep You as the center of my life. Always. Amen.
Ezekiel 19:14 “‘Fire spread from one of its main branches and consumed its fruit. No strong branch is left on it fit for a ruler’s scepter.’ “This is a lament and is to be used as a lament.”
Have a blessed day.