Ezekiel 23:35 “Therefore this is what the Sovereign Lord says: Since you have forgotten me and turned your back on me, you must bear the consequences of your lewdness and prostitution.”
This is a rather rough chapter in its imagery and analogies. Commentary says, “The course language was used to shock, and to reflect God’s own disgust with Jerusalem’s sins.” Even now, even with judgement a certainty, God was still trying to get through to His people.
Ezekiel 23:48 “So I will put an end to lewdness in the land, that all women may take warning and not imitate you.”
Commentary also says of verse 49, “The severity of conquest and exile had a purpose greater than punishment. The ultimate purpose was to reveal God in both His judgements and His gracious restorations.” Even now, even when the people had turned so grievously from God, He is still the God of compassion, seeking ultimate restoration.
Ezekiel 23:49a “You will suffer the penalty for your lewdness and bear the consequences of your sins of idolatry….”
Lord, These chapters are hard for me. Israel keeps being disobedient. You keep trying to help them see Your way, but You continue to let them choose, even knowing they will choose wrong, because Your goal is ultimately their restoration. Give me peace and hope as I continue through these chapters. Help me to draw closer to You through Your word. Amen.
Ezekiel 23:49b “…Then you will know that I am the Sovereign Lord.”
Have a blessed day.