September 4

Ezekiel 23-24
When the prophet’s wife dies, he still goes out and speaks to the people as God commanded.  He is to be an example for Israel, as well as, an example to us.  Throughout his life Ezekiel, along with the other prophets, suffered much.  They were not given a pass on the sorrows of life because they were God’s special messengers.  Yet, they remained faithful, continuing to fulfill the will of God in the presence of God’s people.  Perhaps it was easier because they had received special inspiration from the Holy Spirit, but I don’t really believe that played much of a part in their righteous way of life.  Men and women of God serve Him because they love Him.  They are able to identify with His desire to live among them and enjoy fellowship with them.  God has created mankind for His own special purpose, so that He might share an intimate relationship with them for eternity.  The sorrows of this life are fleeting compared to the joys of eternity with our faithful heavenly Father!