My husband insisted we live in student housing during graduate school. I envisioned myself squeezed in a one-bedroom with a growing family, schlepping milk gallons from the parking lot with a cranky toddler, trading our fenced back yard for a common area. Nope. I was not happy about living in a too-tight-for-my-comfort community.
So, I understand slightly the rebellion in Zedekiah’s heart in Ezekiel 17. The king of Babylon strategically ruled. He exported Judah’s top leadership and priests to Babylon (Ezekiel 17:4), and installed a puppet king, Zedekiah, to oversee the land. He also left some people to live in humble peace and thrive like seeds planted in a fertile field by abundant water (v.5). The vine (Israel) turned its branches toward Babylon (the earthly ruler) and started flourishing (vv.6,8).
But Zedekiah wanted to rule on his own terms. So instead of learning to thrive in the boundaries and position established by God through the Babylonian king (Ezekiel 17:19,24), Zedekiah reached out to the Egyptians to support him in a revolt (Ezekiel 17:7,15).
But what Zedekiah failed to realize was God orchestrated the humiliation of Judah for their rebellion in the first place. The deportations of Judah to Babylon were God’s judgment for their idolatrous ways. God is the One who exalts and the One who humbles (Matthew 11:23). God is the One who causes green trees to wither, and withered trees thrive (Ezekiel 17:24). How would Zedekiah’s rebellion to break the covenant between the nations turn out any differently?
It didn’t.
When a treaty was enacted between two nations, it was signed under oath to the respective deities. So, if someone broke the treaty, they also violated their commitment to their own god(s). Zedekiah broke the treaty with Babylon, so he also invited the retribution of the Lord. God took Zedekiah to Babylon and exacted judgment on him for the betrayal (v.20).
But God is not done with Israel or the nations at this point. Ezekiel also prophesied that one day, there will be a planting by the Lord on Israel’s high mountains (vv.22–24)—the Messianic rule of Israel.
We can take heed from the imagery God gifted Ezekiel. When we bend our hearts toward rebellion—our way, our will, our strength—we begin to wither like the vine (v.10). But when we bend our hearts toward the Lord, He provides us the sustenance we need to flourish—His way, His will, His strength—even among the tares that grow up around us (Matthew 13:24–30).
My family moved into the teeny apartment, and it turned into a bountiful planting by God. My neighbors from all around the world became extended family. Our children grew up together for a short while. And now we have loved ones all throughout the world. It was hard—and good.
Heidi this is incredible! Thank you for sharing! I have felt that annoyance at praying but not knowing what to do either, right now I am contemplating what to do with my job after my maternity leave is over and am facing a lot of indecision and anxiety ! I believe God will give me the wisdom to know what to do when the decision needs to be made and this has inspired me not to give up in asking for it. Sisters I ask for your prayers for our scheduled c section on Wednesday. Baby still hasn’t flipped so it looks like this is how he will make his entrance into the world. Please pray for a healthy delivery and for wisdom to know how to take care of him and raise him to know his Maker. Thank you so much!!!
Hi everyone, this is my first time posting. I have to admit reading Ezekiel has been tough! It definitely helps me to read your comments. Today really hit home with me in my reading though – I am searching for a new job. I’ve had several interviews and they seem really positive and then it is ‘crickets’. I just want them to respond or I want to do something to make them respond!! I get this feeling I still need to wait and just let it play out and let God do it. If you could pray for me on this, I would really appreciate it ❤️
Heidi, thank you so much for writing this. I definitely find relation to this. I decided a few months ago that I’d return to school after years of working. Now, I live a less “free” life and am more isolated than ever. Your gentle reminder of how the Lord leads us to our growth and to remember that He is a God of great plans, provisions, and protection.
Heidi, thank you for sharing your story. Please continue to keep us updated.
Thank you to all of my SRT community for how you love on each other. What a blessing the Lord has provided. Happy Monday everyone!
Thank you, Heidi, for sharing your beautiful story. Your faithfulness is a blessing to us as well as an excellent example in following God’s direction to us. May we all be so patient in waiting to hear and understand God’s plan for us. I have much work to do in this area!
I struggle a lot in understanding the OT. The parables written regarding the roots pointing in one direction, the withering vine and having the top cut out of a tree and planted elsewhere have me scratching my head for meaning and significance. I am so thankful for the SRT and HRT writers each day. Also, you Shes provide so much content, research, and love to this community. I am so grateful to be a part of this community. Have a blessed day ladies. ❤️
Oh that terrible return button. @ Natalie to finish my thoughts… I want you to know that God met every need during that time. Instantly providing a temporary job (that became permanent) with part-time hours that were abundantly sufficient to our small family’s needs. May you find the same graces and blessings by trusting in Him who loves you.
Grateful to be reading this in community. Seana’s and Searching’s explanations, Heidi’s and Angie’s testimonies as well as the many thoughtful observations of others brought me clarity. @ Natalie Tucker. Years ago, I was a young widow and mother of two small children. I tried to stay home. It lasted for 11 months before I was faced to accept that financially I needed to return to work.
Heidi, your story brought tears to my eyes. Your deep faith and love was so evident and your witnessing powerful. Prayers for all involved and many blessings for you. Sisters have a good week.