S) "21 'I will bring terrors on you and you will be no more; though you will be sought, you will never be found again,' declares the Lord God."
Ezekiel 26:21 (NASB)
O) Reading through this account of the city/nation of Tyre, I couldn't help thinking of a global phenomenon, that so many diverse cultures share a common legend: Atlantis. The descriptions of Tyre in these chapters today (and it's also notable how much time is devoted to their prophecy, as compared to the other nations judged), tells of their vast power, trade, wisdom, and influence. It describes that they were seated in the midst of the seas (that is, an island). At the very least, all of this (along with the actual content from the verse above) tells us that this is not the same Tyre from the New Testament (which is likely to be the same, or nearly the same, as the present day city). But, when I was reading through all of this prophecy against Tyre, and I read the verse above, I couldn't help but be reminded of how many people devote their lives to searching for this lost city of Atlantis. Even if the legends of Atlantis were not about this nation, it still leaves us with a few points to consider. First and foremost, this verse reminds us of God's ultimate sovereignty. What He wishes to cover, no one will discover. What God wishes to destroy, no one can rebuild. Second, this verse is a reminder that humans seek what we value. When this nation was destroyed, it apparently affected a wide, wide range of peoples. The talk of the wealth, information, and power that was lost was immense. People miss those things when they held such a large place in their hearts. What we seek reveals what is important to us. Even today, people have theories about what Atlantis was, and many people devote their lives to seeking the lost ruins, based entirely about what is important to them (e.g., scientific enlightenment, fame, and even wealth). Lastly, This verse reminds us of the righteous judgment of the LORD. Tyre was judged for their various sins, and their desolation was utter. God was completely in the right to destroy them.
A) Working backwards, it can sometimes be a harsh reminder that I am guilty of sins (although, not necessarily the same sins as Tyre, guilty just the same). My sins ultimately deserve death. But, Jesus took those sins upon Himself, bearing the righteous judgment, the punishment of those sins, the death I deserved on the cross. Every verse about God's judgment should produce thanksgiving and humility in me. Also, I must beware hindsight longing, especially (see also, Ecclesiastes 7:10). What I am seeking reveals what is important in my heart. I should be aware of my desires, as they will reveal my heart. My heart should be for God, and the things of God, and my desires should be in alignment with that. Finally, my Lord GOD is sovereign. What should I ever fear, when I am fully submitted to Him? Living under His reign, I should have ultimate peace, patience, love, and joy. If I don't, then I am forgetting who is in charge, here.
P) Father, You are perfect and just. You are sovereign and merciful. You know my heart better than I ever really could. Open my eyes to see as You see, and let the indwelling Holy Spirit convict me when my desires are not what they should be. Help me to let go of regrets, to not dwell on them. Help me to seek You and the things that glorify You. Thank You for the mercy and grace I have in the gospel of Jesus Christ. In His name I pray. Amen.
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