If God can see idols hidden in the hearts of Israelites, imagine what he can see in our hearts! It’s a little frightening to know we are like open books to God, yet at the same time refreshing. The latter is true when we have welcomed the Holy Spirit to reside within and cleanse us.
Some people avoid passages like this because they don’t want to examine their own failings. They can’t imagine having a God that is that interested in their hearts, feeling limited to “do their own thing.” Yet the time is now to take inventory of what may be lurking in our own hearts.
Idols seem to be the focus here. The LORD said, “They have embraced things that will make them fall into sin.” That’s a pretty simplified explanation for how idols create the wedge between God and his people. Anything that causes us to sin and be distracted from loving God can be considered an idol. Discussing idols happens a lot, especially in the Old Testament where God reveals himself in terms of what does and does not please him.
These men with Ezekiel were elders, who I assume were respected in the community. Ezekiel must have had some authority of his own to have been in their company. These elders had probably come to Ezekiel hoping for some magnificent revelation from God regarding being stuck in exile. Instead, they themselves are the ones God’s message rebukes.
We’re not told how the elders respond when Ezekiel delivers this message, so that doesn’t appear to be the point of the vision. Instead, we should not let God’s teachable moment go to waste. What idols do we cling to that need to go?
We may look good on the outside, just like these elders were trying to do. We can’t fool God. You may recall the New Testament example of this very thing. The story of Ananias and Sapphira appears in Acts 5:1-11. John closed his first letter with these words: “Dear children, keep away from anything that might take God’s place in your hearts.” (1 John 5:21).
God wants to be the ruler of our hearts. He wants us to be in step with him and only him. It’s mind boggling to think that God, creator of the universe, wants to be known by us. It’s even crazier to think we would intentionally ignore such a desire. What an honor it is. Think on that today.
Let’s pray. LORD, there is a lot of crud in my heart blinding me from the beauty of your love and desire to be known. Help me to clear away that debris so I can be wholly devoted to you. Forgive me for my distractions and my failings. When I feel weak, help me remember to turn to always you for strength and guidance. It’s such a privilege to be called your child. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
