Main Idea: The Lord of Heaven rules over the kingdoms of man.
A Look at the Text:
In chapter 30, the Lord’s judgment of Egypt is still in view as Ezekiel prophesies the downfall of this great country. The Day of the Lord was on its way, and it was going to be a time of doom (Ezek. 30:3). The proud might of Egypt would be brought down, their cities would be laid waste, and their wealth would be put to an end (Ezek. 30:6-10).
Even more, their idols would be cut down and revealed for the powerless frauds that they were (Ezek. 30:13), and the power of Pharaoh would be broken by Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon (Ezek. 30:20-22).
This was certain to come, for it was God who would be placing His sword into the king of Babylon’s hand to strike down the land of Egypt (Ezek. 30:24). In the end, they would know that He is the Lord, Yahweh, the living God (Ezek. 30:8,19,25,26).
Bringing it Home:
Over and over again, God assured His people and the entire watching world through the prophet Ezekiel that His name would be made known. His glory and fame would fill the earth. This would certainly happen in the midst of countless judgments on the national level.
What is fascinating is that from a natural viewpoint this was warfare between nations, but from a spiritual viewpoint this was the true Sovereign orchestrating nations as chess pieces upon His board.
He was the One who entrusted Nebuchadnezzar with His own sword. He was the One who was bringing judgment upon His people in Judah and upon the other nations. He was the One who was judging Egypt for their crimes. When all was said and done, people would be able to see how God’s hand was directing all of these things, and it would abound for His fame.
So let us then be encouraged today that no matter what things look like on earth, there is One who is reigning in the heavens. Even if the earth be filled with turmoil, none of it has challenged His heavenly rule. We can rest assured that His Kingdom has drawn near in Jesus Christ, and one day, it will be the only Kingdom left standing.
Challenge:
Do national problems cause me to become fearful or anxious?