S) "6 Thus says the Lord,
'Indeed, those who support Egypt will fall
And the pride of her power will come down;
From Migdol to Syene
They will fall within her by the sword,'
Declares the Lord God."
Ezekiel 30:6 (NASB)
O) Egypt had a longstanding place in the hearts of many Israelites, because it had been a consistently powerful nation (although, not always the most powerful empire around). Even today, the nation survived history, and it is still culturally relevant on a global level. Because of their consistent power, wealth, and influence, the Israelites were drawn to them for help from the time shortly after the Exodus, all the way through their history, really until the final exiles were carried away. From Israel's perspective, this was a form of idolatry, mistakenly believing that Egypt could provide safety, security, or peace, when really that was the exact role the LORD wanted to fill for them, Himself. Israel wasn't exactly the only nation that looked to Egypt for alliance, support, or hope. There were many nations that gave allegiance to Egypt in the midst of their distress, and when the judgment of the LORD was being poured out upon Egypt (through the sword of Babylon), there were many nations that wanted to help. But, God is sovereign, and their help was futile. Not only that, but standing in allegiance, in opposition to what God says and wills, is always going to make a person an enemy of God, incurring the same wrathful judgment that is coming. This is what happened to anyone who tried to help Egypt in the midst of their punishment.
A) There is an older expression, having a bit of a rebirth in today's political climate, "On the wrong side of history." and I find it particularly troubling. In light of this verse, it brings to mind two very important... rebuttals, I might say. First of all, people have a very limited view of "history" because laws, cultures, and norms ebb and flow and change on a vast scale, when we look at history in a broad view. Secondly, and more importantly, there is a much more dangerous place to find myself, than on the wrong side of history: the wrong side of God's judgment. I must be careful in the execution of this principle, but I can never, under any circumstances, whatsoever, support sin. I just cannot ever do that. When compassion wells within me, and I want to support a person who is sinning, I must carefully pray for wisdom, that I can support the person while making it clear that I do not condone their sin. My support for them must be driven by love, that wants to see them reconciled to their Creator, in righteous forgiveness, through the blood of Jesus Christ. Supporting a person who is practicing sin, must always have the gospel at its core. The gospel must be my focus.
P) Father, You are sovereign and infinite. You rightly determine what is just and true. What is the right side of history, ultimately depends on what You determine is right, because Your judgments are eternally true. Help me to view things with an eternal mindset, so that my narrow view of history does not tempt me toward a wrong view of Your judgments. With eternity in mind, let me be bold in sharing the beauty, grace, mercy, and love of the gospel. Soften the hearts of those I love, who have not yet submitted to the Way. Open their eyes and ears, to know and accept Your truth. Let my life be a beacon of Your hope, peace, joy, and love. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.
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