Pastor Leon’s SOAP: Scripture, Observation, Application, and Prayer

September 5: Ezekiel 25-28; Revelation 10

Scripture: Ezekiel (NIV) 28:15 You were blameless in your ways from the day you were created till wickedness was found in you…
16 Through your widespread trade you were filled with violence, and you sinned. So I drove you in disgrace from the mount of God, and I expelled you, guardian cherub, from among the fiery stones.
17 Your heart became proud on account of your beauty, and you corrupted your wisdom because of your splendor. So I threw you to the earth; I made a spectacle of you before kings.

Observation: Here I believe the Holy Spirit’s anointing has carried the prophet from writing about the king of Tyre, who had set himself up as a god (see the previous verses), to writing about the evil power behind the king, even Satan himself. As all God’s creation, Satan was created beautiful and blameless. But he took his eyes off the Creator and put them on creation—he became enamored by his own beauty.

Application: It is so easy to take credit for our appearance and talents. But I had no choice in the body that was given me; however I can choose to use it to glorify God. I also had no choice in the talents that were given me, but I can develop them and use them to glorify God. I may not have much choice in the people who will cross my path today, but I can see each one as an opportunity to make God look good.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for what you have given me. May I use my body and my talents for your glory! Tonight may I go to sleep tired, but happy in knowing that all the glory that came my way was passed along to you. Today may I speak your name with appreciation many times. Amen

Pastor Leon

Making friends for time and eternity!