S) "21 Then the word of the Lord came to me, saying, 22 'Son of man, what is this proverb you people have concerning the land of Israel, saying, "The days are long and every vision fails"? 23 Therefore say to them, "Thus says the Lord God, 'I will make this proverb cease so that they will no longer use it as a proverb in Israel.' But tell them, 'The days draw near as well as the fulfillment of every vision."'"
Ezekiel 12:21-23 (NASB)
O) The objects in this passage are less important, I think, than the overall effect. The people were misguided and pessimistic in their world view. In the midst of exile and oppression, they had lost touch with their God (because of their own unfaithfulness, to be sure). God was determined change that culture. I don't think we live in a culture today, that can justifiably claim every vision is fulfilled. I do think, very much, that the LORD wants to change several things about our culture, especially our Christian culture.
A) My concern is not so much about Christian culture at large, but about my family culture. There are several, very common proverbs in today's world. Phrases like, "You only live once" (YOLO), or "If it wasn't for bad luck, I'd have no luck at all." So many of these types of sayings exist because people do not truly know the LORD, even if they've heard of Him. In my family, I want to be sure that my wife and kids know Him well, and understand the promises we do have through His Word. As phrases, sayings, and proverbs come and go, His words never fail, never change. So, I want to continually set the culture in my home. My hope is that my children's children's children will hear something errant, and will immediately be able to call it out for the hopeless or angry or shallow lie that it is.
P) Father God, Your goodness is beyond my full understanding. But, even what I do know, is enough to deserve my eternal devotion, in the hope of Your lovingkindness and redemption. Help me guard my family against surrounding culture that is unbiblical. Help me to set a culture in my house, that is firmly founded on knowing You. Keep us from the deceptions of the world, so that You will be glorified and praised when others see the hope, joy, and love we share. In the name of Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.
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