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I have been reading through the lengthy book of Ezekiel. As I started reading this book, I noticed a particular phrase used several times. As I continued reading the book, I noticed that this particular phrase was used continually throughout the entire book. I was actually surprised that I kept seeing it over and over again. It was used to describe something that the people in this book wanted to be a part of and it was upsetting to God. I saw it used so often that I realized that it really bothered God that these people wanted this in their lives and accepted it as okay.
What was particularly interesting to me is that these people did A LOT wrong! However, this always made about the top 3 list that God speaks about specifically. Let’s see if we can pick up on what was pushing God away from them:
Ezekiel 7:20
They were proud of their beautiful jewelry and used it to make detestable idols and vile images. Therefore, I will make all their wealth disgusting to them.
Ezekiel 11:21
“But as for those who long for vile images and detestable idols, I will repay them fully for their sins. I, the Sovereign Lord, have spoken!”
Ezekiel 20:7
Then I said to them, ‘Each of you, get rid of the vile images you are so obsessed with [the abominable things on which you feasts your eyes]. Do not defile yourselves with the idols of Egypt, for I am the Lord your God.’
Ezekiel 20:8a
“But they rebelled against me and would not listen. They did not get rid of the vile images they were obsessed with..”
Ezekiel 37:23
They will never again pollute themselves with their idols and vile images and rebellion, for I will save them from their sinful backsliding. I will cleanse them. Then they will truly be my people, and I will be their God.
These people’s rejection of God, which was shown by their idol worship, was directly related to their desire to view vile images. Vile images are powerful, they are consuming, and they are hard to shake. It is very hard to keep our heart on God when it is competing with the effects of feasting on offensive images.
This nation really reminds me of the direction America has gone in. We have become a nation that glamorizes and celebrates vile images. We judge those in the spotlight for their vileness all the while using it as our own entertainment. A person used to have to go out of their way to view pornographic related images. Now, a person has to go out of their way to avoid pornographic related images.
Having a heart and mind that is free from vile images allows our heart and mind to be given completely to God without any diversions pulling our focus away from Him. We may have to avoid certain things, we may have to alter our daily routine, and we may have to have a friend or family member help us with accountability. We may have to politely but firmly let a friend know that we don’t care to be a part of what they are trying to share with us. Whatever steps we have to take to minimize the vile images in our life are steps well taken and ones we will never regret taking.
Father God, I never realized how much vile images and idol worship were related to each other. I don’t want to push You away by inviting vile images into my life. I know vile images can be powerful and I only want Your power to be strong in my life. Please help me be brave and strong to take the steps I need to take to stop these types of images from being a part of my life.
Today, my life is set up so it would be very hard to fail—not because I plan on failing, but because I plan on not failing. My Internet access is monitored. I have no access to the finances here. My salary is set by lay people. I haven’t been alone with a woman besides my wife in I don’t know how long. I never travel anywhere alone. Every moment of my day is kept accountable by someone." - Craig Groeschel, pastor of Lifechurch.tv
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