S) "28 Her prophets have smeared whitewash for them, seeing false visions and divining lies for them, saying, 'Thus says the Lord God,' when the Lord has not spoken."
Ezekiel 22:28 (NASB)
O) Few things anger the LORD, quite like speaking for Him falsely. When I think about the kind of harm that could befall my kids, if someone lied to them about things I never said, convincing them I did, it makes me furious. Yet, these prophets, who were supposed to be the protectors of the people, shepherding the flock of God in His ways, they were doing exactly that. They were corrupted, using their station to deceive God's people. The reference to whitewashing goes back to Ezekiel 13, when the prophets were already condemned for falsely presenting a peace for the people, when indeed there was only the illusion of security. People want hope, they want to know what's happening around them has some kind of purpose, or that it won't last forever. People want security. When wicked people see that need, they will attempt to fill it for their own sordid gain, not because they actually love the people. That's what was happening here.
A) People, as a species, do not change. Our basic needs have always been the same, our desires remain consistent through the ages. One of those, is that desire for security, and to know everything is going to be alright. In our world today, there are still billions of people who seek supernatural answers to these existential questions. Then, there are the others who seek the answers in the scientific and tangible world. Some bounce back and forth. What I have come to learn, though, is that the only reliable, cohesive, thorough answer is found in Jesus Christ. There are huge markets for psychology, financial independence, business success, and physical exercise. That reveals the desires of people, to be healed, secure, and powerful. Ultimately, though, all of those are whitewashing cracked walls. All of those attempts are only going to make things appear good for a little while. Ultimately, what I need is Jesus. I need Him to heal me, protect me, secure my future, and overcome my enemy. I only need Him. Anyone who says otherwise is selling something.
P) Father, thank You for our relationship, Lord God. Help me to continue growing in our relationship, to know You better and better. Let me remain firmly rooted in the Scriptures, to know what You have actually said, so that I can never be fooled into trusting a whitewashed wall. Give me discernment to recognize Your voice, when others speak on what You have said, or when they are speaking of their own mind and only claiming falsely to speak on Your behalf. Open my eyes and ears, and let me receive Your truth alone. Thank You for securing my future, for healing my brokenness. Thank You for protecting me, and for the victory I receive in Jesus Christ my King. Let me be bold to speak the truth, Lord. Let me be bold to expose false teachers, who are preying on the spiritual needs of desperate and endangered people. Help me to be bold with the gospel, the truth hope of Jesus Christ. Let all this be done only for Your glory, and let Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.
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