The events of the narrative pass quickly. Verse seven says of her childhood only that she grows up and matures into a woman. Ezekiel 16:8 continues: “then I passed by you and saw you, and behold, you were at the time for love; so I spread my skirt over you and covered your nakedness. I also swore to you and entered into a covenant with you so that you became mine," declares the Lord God.”
When she entered the age of consciousness, God pursued her heart for a response, just as He does towards you. Have you ever realized that God is actively seeking to draw your heart to His with kindness? It’s not only how He pursues you everyday but also the process He used to first draw you to salvation. Romans 2:4 says that “the kindness of God leads you to repentance.” David penned these words as He thought of Yahweh’s pursuit of his heart: “Where can I go from Your Spirit? Or where can I flee from Your presence? If I ascend to heaven, You are there; if I make my bed in Sheol, behold, You are there. If I take the wings of the dawn, if I dwell in the remotest part of the sea, even there Your hand will lead me, and Your right hand will lay hold of me” (Psalm 139:7-10). Jeremiah 31:3 talks about how “The LORD appeared to him from afar, saying, “I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore I have drawn you with lovingkindness.” Jesus said “No one can come to Me unless the Father who sent Me draws him” (John 6:44). These verses are some of my favorite; they open my heart again and inspire me not to resist the love of God that allures me with his kindness.
1 comment:
Stephanie, thanks for posting this series from Ezekiel. Reading it, I was reminded of a book I read a couple of years ago by Kay Arthur called "Israel, My Beloved." From what I've read here, I think you would really appreciate the way that she puts the story of God's heart for Israel into character and prose. Check it out--it's a great read!
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