September 17, 2012 (Ezekiel 42-44; Revelation 22)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “And this is the basic law of the Temple: absolute holiness! The entire top of the mountain where the Temple is built is holy. Yes, this is the basic law of theTemple.” Ezekiel 43:12 NLT
Observation: Ezekiel was instructed to tell the people ofIsraelabout the Temple plans including the specifications, entrances and exits, laws and degrees so that Israel would be ashamed of all their detestable sins. Ezekiel was to explain all about the Temple to them so they would be sure to remember what the Lord God Almighty had instructed. The basic law of the Temple was absolute holiness! God wants His house clean and well kept. No defilement of any kind is allowed. All filth must be washed away and washed clean in the blood of sacrifice. “Use your eyes and ears, and listen to everything I tell you about the regulations concerning the Lord’s Temple. Give these rebels, the people of Israel, this message from the Sovereign Lord: O people of Israel, enough of your detestable sins!”
Application: God’s standards are sure forever and ever. He never lowers them to satisfy the vile lust of mans flesh. His yes, is yes and His no, is no. If the basic law of the Temple was absolute holiness in the days of Ezekiel, then absolute holiness is the same standard He requires today. Today, we are the Temple God lives in. Why would He accept and choose to lower His standard of living by dwelling in a sinful Temple? He will not! When He enters into a person they are changed from what they once were into something brand new, clean and holy. It’s our responsibility to learn of His laws and degrees and submit to them completely. This is not a “one time” event, it is a daily process called, sanctification.
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for this day. Thank You for Your goodness, mercy and grace that provide and protect me every day. Thank You for Your regulations and degrees that are good for my soul. Thank You for loving me enough to correct me when I’m wrong. Thank You for forgiving me when I confess and repent. Thank You for Your Spirit that lives in me, enabling me to overcome just as You overcame. Give me wisdom to know what’s right and the courage and strength to do what’s right at all times. In Jesus name, Amen!