Ezekiel 34

Ezekiel 34

It is difficult to read this chapter in Ezekiel and not come away with a clear understanding of just how important it is to look after those God has entrusted to us.

Verse 2 says there is sorrow for those who feed themselves rather than their flocks, letting them starve. The chapter goes on to say the Shepherd has not taken care of the weak, tended the sick, mended the injured, or searched for the lost - but rather, ruled with harshness and cruelty. This is considered an abandonment that left the fold prey and susceptible to attacks from the enemy. God then considered them (the shepherds who looked only after themselves) His enemy.

To stop right here, I first think of the shepherds in my life who inadvertently played a role in causing me to wander. Rather than get upset, I ask God to help me to forgive. Second, I think of WHO is in my life, I am responsible for, and I ask God to show me who HE considers part of my "fold". Third, I ask God to show me those areas where I am selfish and not tending the spiritual, mental, emotional and physical needs of those I love. Finally, I pray if there be ANY pride in my life keeping me blind, He help remove it so I can see and accept WHATEVER He needs me to.

The remainder of the chapter goes on to the promise of God to come and find and rescue His sheep, bring them back home, feed them, tend to and give peace, bandage the injured, and strengthen the weak. He will do this Himself. And He will also judge those who have looked only after themselves.

Thank you, Lord, for seeking us out and rescuing us, being our Shepherd, and restoring us. Thank you for causing us to see whom we are to tend to and nourish in every way. Thank you for your message, grace and mercy. Thank you for Your Spirit, Who will lead and guide through this knowledge and understanding.