Stumbling Blocks!

A stumbling block is something that stands in our way of living, moving, achieving a goal, or coming to understand something. Sometimes we have to deal with them; learning how to either get around them, over them, or completely moving them out of the way. However, some of the worst stumbling blocks are those we might set up for ourselves. It is not always something in front of us. Sometimes the stumbling block can be within us. This was the case for the nation of Israel during the days of Ezekiel. Some of the elders who were not focused on God in the manner they should have been, still came to Ezekiel -- God's prophet at the time -- for counsel.

We read. . .
"(1) Then certain of the elders of Israel came to me and sat before me. (2) And the word of the LORD came to me: (3) 'Son of man, these men HAVE TAKEN THEIR IDOLS INTO THEIR HEARTS, and SET THE STUMBLING BLOCK OF THEIR INIQUITY BEFORE THEIR FACES. Should I indeed let myself be consulted by them?" ( Ezekiel 14:1-3)

The root of the problem was in their HEART. That is where the idols had been taken in before they were placed in front of themselves. How could they expect things to go well with such a "stumbling block" set within and before them? This was again noted in verses 4 and 7. There was the need for repentance so that they would no more go astray, but would rather again be God's people and God would be their God! (vs.11)

Perhaps we have never envisioned ourselves being guilty of idolatry. However, Paul even noted greed (covetousness) as idolatry. ( Colossians 3:5) Anything or anyone held dearer IN OUR HEART than the Lord, has become our idol. It is the Lord Who is to have that sovereign place IN OUR HEART. If He is not seated there we will find ourselves continuing to stumble and fall in life. Whatever or whomever's purposes we most serve (and that could even be our own) is where the life has bowed down. And how true it is that some people just fall all over themselves!

May we continue developing a HEART FOR THE LORD and His Will. Taking Him into OUR HEART is what paves the way for the keeping of His Will in front of us to guide us safely through life's journey and toward the eternity He desires to provide us. Traveling through life with Him we will have His help in dealing with what other obstacles may be encountered.

Have a great day WITH THE LORD REIGNING WITHIN!
Carl

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