Good morning!
Text: Ezekiel 39-42; Psalm 132
When we think of the traits of God, we think of majesty, might, holiness, eternal nature, love, justice and mercy. We think of wisdom, faithfulness and pure goodness. But how about jealousy?
Consider these words from Ezekiel 39:25 –
“Therefore thus says the Lord God: Now I will restore the fortunes of Jacob and have mercy on the whole house of Israel, and I will be jealous for my holy name.”
That word, “jealous” brings up our experience of human jealousy, the unreasonable demands of exclusive attention and affection. In human terms, jealousy incurs anger, pain and harsh actions. But in God’s case, jealousy is beautiful and good. He has in fact a legitimate claim to our exclusive attentions and affections. “Thou shalt have no other gods before me…” He want us all to Himself, because He wants us to have every blessing of His loving kindness. He is rightly unhappy when we seek help, meaning and love elsewhere. He wants an exclusive relationship with us because it is what is the very best for us. It is all good that we serve a jealous God.
in Him, Mike