Scripture

” And all the trees will know that it is I, the Lord, who cuts the tall trees down and makes the short trees grow tall. It is I who makes the green tree wither and gives the dead tree new life. I, the Lord, have spoken and I will do what I have said.”

Observation

Ezekiel tells a parable about an eagle covered with many-coloured plumage. He seized the top of a cedar tree and plucked off its highest branch. He planted it in fertile soil beside a broad river. It took root and grew into a low spreading vine.

Another eagle came, and the vine grew towards him for water even though it already had plenty. The Lord will pull up this vine and cut off its fruit.

Ezekiel reveals that this parable is about the king of Israel. He and his officials rebelled against Babylon and sought help from Egypt. But Pharaoh will not step in when Babylon besieges Jerusalem. The Lord will punish the king, his soldiers and his officials for turning away from the Lord’s covenant.

Application

The Lord raises up kings and governments and the Lord pulls them down. Although this chapter is about kings and kingdoms, it applies to all people.

Often it seems to us that the powers and empires of the world are unshakable. After the Second World War communism in eastern Europe seemed permanent. But then, in the 1980’s, it all came crashing down almost overnight.

Individuals similarly can seem to be of high regard in a community. But then truth is exposed about their previous crimes or misdeeds and their reputation crumbles.

This is ultimately true of everyone who refuses to acknowledge and obey the Lord.

Listen

Lord, what do you want to say to me about this?

Keith, make sure you walk with me each and every day. I raise people up and I pull people down.

There are business men in your community who seem successful. They have built good businesses, but they are built on personal charisma, human wisdom and unethical practices,

I will destroy every business not built on the foundation of my word, I will raise up men and women who are faithful to me in their beliefs and in their actions.