Read Ezekiel 28:1-19
It’s helpful to be introduced to the King of Tyre as God sees him and how Ezekiel describes the king’s leadership. In earlier passages, we’ve read how this thriving town was so well respected. Did it surprise you that the leader was so full of himself, thinking he was a god? That degree of self-importance would not be pleasing to God. Yet the king must have been delighted to be in charge of such a successful city.
What must this prideful king have thought when a message came from the Sovereign LORD? Not only did the LORD call him out on his behavior, but the king was put in his place. He was simply wealthy and wise and most certainly not a god!
This first message promised doom and an end to the king’s life. “You will die like an outcast at the hands of foreigners”. To such an arrogant man, the king would have a hard time believing such a destiny was his. The words from the LORD certainly didn’t sound pleasant, if anyone was paying attention. Do you think the king took any action based on this prophecy promising his death?
The second message to the king was a preview of the song that would be heard at his funeral. Funeral planning isn’t one of the most pleasant things to do in life, but it is part of it. Over the years, I’ve always thought certain songs would be perfect at my funeral (should have written them down because now I’m not remembering them). But this funeral dirge would not be one I’d want to have to consider.
Although, it starts off with a nice tribute to who the king had once been. God took credit for giving the king such a grand foundation with the promise of a great life. That was until evil started infecting him.
The LORD was making a huge statement in the words of this song. The people who adored the king, if any remained alive for the funeral, would see the truth. The LORD promised the king there would be an unveiling. “All who knew you are appalled at your fate. You have come to a terrible end, and you will exist no more.”
Can’t we all see a little evil inside our own hearts? It’s not because we want it to be there, it just is. We’re human, and it is our tendency to sin, stirring up the evil tendencies within us. The more time we spend in God’s word and in seeking his heart and direction for our lives, the more we can dispel some of that evil and be cleansed.
We know that a relationship with Jesus is the perfect remedy for our sinful condition. Knowing and trusting need to be differentiated. A true cleanse comes to those who trust it will happen. The king of Tyre was known to trust only his own power and wisdom. That was a mistake we can learn from.
Let’s pray. LORD, I know it’s my tendency to sin and fall short of your perfect will for me, and I lament my weakness. I need to tap into your strength and be fortified with your wisdom and strength. Help me to know you more. Open my eyes and my mind to understanding. Use me to be a light to bring other people closer to you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
