S) "15 It will be the lowest of the kingdoms, and it will never again lift itself up above the nations. And I will make them so small that they will not rule over the nations. 16 And it will never again be the confidence of the house of Israel, bringing to mind the iniquity of their having turned to Egypt. Then they will know that I am the Lord God."
Ezekiel 29:15-16 (NASB)
O) This is from the prophecy against Egypt, when Nebuchadnezzar was going to make his way to conquer them. The LORD tells Ezekiel about their destruction (and restoration) with a particular purpose, relative to the Israelites. In general, the prophecies against the surrounding nations were about the punishment of those nations, often for boasting over Judah and Israel, or taking advantage of the judgment against God's people. In this case, it includes punishment for Egypt's treatment of the children of God, but it's also more than that. God wanted Israel to pay close attention, to realize once and for all, that Egypt was never going to be a viable, saving, protective help to them.
A) God can, has, and will, use other people to indirectly carry out His will in my life. In a difficulty, He will use the willing hands of a friend, to help me. In distress, He will use brothers and sisters, or even unbelievers, for His will. He is sovereign, holy, and just; this is His prerogative. However, He is still the source of my securities. He is still my protection and provision, my portion and my shield. It is foolish, and unfaithful, for me to think that others can or will save me from calamity. On a related note, I need to realize how temporary it is, the help I might receive from others. I can only afford to have confidence in one, The One, because He is the trustworthy, faithful, powerful, sovereign, Father God who knows and loves me beyond comprehension or doubt.
P) Father, You alone are the Lord GOD. I repent from foolishly, unfaithfully putting my trust or hope in any person or thing, other than You. I will have no confidence, but in You alone. In my time of need, I will look to You alone, and trust that You are mighty to save, however You choose to execute salvation and redemption. Let Your will alone be done. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.
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