Podcast Introduction Since today is Friday we’re going to read from one of the prophetic books of the Bible, and we are currently in the book of Ezekiel. We’ll read chapters 7-12, and after the reading I’ll have some comments. I’m calling today’s episode “Don’t Push It.” Comments on Ezekiel 7-12 The message that God gave to Ezekiel would have been difficult to deliver and difficult to hear, wouldn’t it?  If you’ve been listening for a while, you no doubt remember that we recently read about the building of the tabernacle and of the temple, and God’s very specific instructions on the various sacrifices and other activities that were to take place in these places. Here in Ezekiel, it is truly sobering to hear how far the people had fallen. It’s actually a testament to God’s grace to see for how long He waited to take action against them, don’t you think? But the people, in their sinful and fallen state, instead took God’s inaction as indifference and absence.  Ultimately, as we heard in chapter 11, God’s presence was withdrawn from the temple because of Israel’s worship of other Gods, and the behavior that came with it. How tragic. Let this be a lesson to us, beloved. Just because we seem to be getting away with sin, we must not be fooled. Don’t assume that God doesn’t care. I’m sure you have heard the old saying, “Give him enough rope to hang himself.” Well, let Israel’s fate constantly remind us that there is no getting away from God’s attention. Beloved, at the end of my life and stand before God, I don’t want to know that I got there by the skin of my teeth. Instead, I want to hear him say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” How about you? Design: Steve Webb | Photo: Tommy Kwak on Unsplash Today’s Bible Translation Bible translation used in today’s episode: Ch. 7-12 CEB A Mighty Fortress Is Our God Link Reawaken Hymns Video Support This a value for value podcast. There are no advertisers because advertising equals censorship. If you enjoy the Lifespring One Year Bible Rewind, decide how much value it brings to you. Only you can make that determination. Then put a number on the value and donate here: