DCLM Daily Manna Monday, June 13 2022
TOPIC: Sacredness Of Treaties
TEXT: Ezekiel 17:11-24
KEY VERSE:
“Therefore thus saith the Lord GOD; As I live, surely mine oath that he hath despised, and my covenant that he hath broken, even it will I recompense upon his own head.”
(Ezekiel 17:19)
DCLM Daily Manna Monday, June 13 2022 MESSAGE
The Old Testament contains many stories showing the link between religion and national life. In His dealings with the nation of Israel, God related with them from the perspective of a thoughtful Father. And as in every good family, relationships demand the completion of tasks and keeping true to promises and covenants.
King Zedekiah in our text did not keep the agreement he made with Nebuchadnezzar. Instead, he turned to Egypt for support thereby breaking faith with Nebuchadnezzar. God instructed Ezekiel to inform Zedekiah the implication of his treachery. God was not happy that he broke the covenant and He threatened Zedekiah with the utter destruction of his kingdom.
God made Israel to understand that every covenant made between individuals is sacred. Oaths and covenants made with men are divine things, and are not to be slighted. God sees the oath made as divine. “Mine oath that he hath despised, and my covenant that he hath broken” (Ezekiel 17:19). Although it was made with a heathen king, God owns it, because His sacred name was used in it. He judges violation of covenant regardless of the parties involved.
Today, many people, especially unbelievers, break covenants and they think God will not hold them responsible. Whether in marriage, business, etc., God expects us to always stand by our commitments. We should be people whose words can be trusted at all times.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Keep your promises.
THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 2 Chronicles 22-25
