Romans 1:28-32 – “And just as they did not see fit to acknowledge God any longer, God gave them over to a depraved mind, to do those things which are not proper, ²⁹ being filled with all unrighteousness, wickedness, greed, evil; full of envy, murder, strife, deceit, malice; they are gossips, ³⁰ slanderers, haters of God, insolent, arrogant, boastful, inventors of evil, disobedient to parents, ³¹ without understanding, untrustworthy, unloving, unmerciful; ³² and although they know the ordinance of God, that those who practice such things are worthy of death, they not only do the same, but also give hearty approval to those who practice them.”

As I read, prayed, and mused on the Word of God today, the vision of Ezekiel and Paul’s revelation of grace held my focus.   I dare not attempt to interpret Ezekiel’s vision, but some things challenged me.

In Ezekiel 1:4, he saw a whirlwind coming from the north.  Whirlwinds often represent confusion and chaos, leaving devastation in their wake.  He saw a figure that he later identified as being heavenly in origin. He saw “4,” living creatures, “4” faces, “4” wings on the creatures.   God does nothing without purpose.  “4” indicates completeness and creation, a message, and even judgment. 4+4+4 = 12.  Could that be a message for the whole nation of Israel and further a message to the Spiritual Israel of God?  You decide.

In Ezekiel 7, God’s presence revealed the corruption in His house.  Lust is far more than physical; it covers life. In verse 16, there was worship of the elements rather than the Creator. (I see parallels today.)  Ezekiel 9, God separated and marked the pure in heart who were distraught by the wickedness they saw.

Man’s corruption brought Jesus to the Earth and nailed Him to the Cross.  When we lose sight of God and allow our hearts and minds to elevate anything above Him or add anything to Him, Blindness comes and results in abominable practices. (verses 24-32).  This is far more than homosexuality or other perversion.

In that state of deception, depravity, and self, God is left on the outside, and self-justification rules.   Romans 3:9 informs that every person needs a Savior.

The question in my heart today is – “Is God truly first?”  Do I have any of the items listed in Romans 1:29-31, present or manifest in me?  Do I have a weak mind that leads to corruption and a gratifying self?  

The list: all manner of iniquity, fornication (flesh or spirit), bitterness, malice, extortion, envy, murder (hate is a seed), strife, deceit, evil (unwholesome) thoughts, slander, backbiting (gossip included), haters of God, revilers, proud, boasting, inventors of evil things, weak-minded, disobedient, or lacking respect and appreciation for God’s Covenant and our word.

Lord, make my heart pure and purge from me all dross! Transform me completely and leave no wicked thing in me. I surrender all. I would rather be crushed than corrupted. Prune me (that’s like praying for patience) so I can be fruitful. Help me die to myself and live to and through you. Amen!

FATHER, help us to make you First in our Lives in All things!