S. O. A. P.
Here’s Your 90 second AM Devotional!
S-cripture:
Ezekiel 38:8
After many days you will be called to arms. In future years you will invade a land that has recovered from war, whose people were gathered from many nations to the mountains of Israel, which had long been desolate. They had been brought out from the nations, and now all of them live in safety.
O-bservation:
Whenever you are professionally taught in a theological university or seminary, the professors will tell you in every class that when studying the scripture to read it in context first! In other words, what was happening on that day that would cause the reader to understand what was being said? After that, you are taught to read the passage for enduring truths and prophetic words that could impact present-day life. This passage really had little bearing on the listeners of that day because Israel was already decimated and scattered everywhere. So, it appears this was truly a word for far into the future.
A-pplication:
I believe it can be safely said that the Early Church fathers would have been somewhat clueless when they read the Revelation of John, and certainly this passage. In fact, it wasn’t until late in the nineteenth century and throughout the twentieth century, and now to the present, that perhaps this passage is making sense. Many modern theologians believe this chapter forecasts Russia’s eventual invasion of a peaceful unwalled city of Israel, particularly Jerusalem. Along with the nation of Russia, they will bring their usual allies in that region of the world and attack. But before that attack happens, God will completely level and destroy them. Whether it happens like that or not, it’s becoming more and more evident that “Something’s Gotta Give.”
P-rayer:
Dear Jesus,
Help me reach my immediate friends and neighbors with the Gospel while I still have breath! I know time appears to be short, and that “Something’s Gotta Give.” Give deliverers the courage and the strength to live boldly for Jesus. Amen
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