““I looked for someone who might rebuild the wall of righteousness that guards the land. I searched for someone to stand in the gap in the wall so I wouldn’t have to destroy the land, but I found no one.”
Ezekiel 22:30 NLT
I still remember the first time I saw the walls surrounding Jerusalem. I was captivated by the sheer size of them. They certainly surpassed every image I had in mind of ancient times and biblical cities surrounded by walls.
Built between 1537-1541, the average height of the walls is 12 feet and average thickness 8 feet. There are also 34 watchtowers and 7 gates used to enter and exit the city. The walls are magnificent.
In ancient times, walls were built around cities for protection. The principle is simple. Protect the people from enemies so they may live and prosper. Have gates and guards to control who enters.
The application to my life and the symbolism of this verse is simple and obvious too. As a follower of Yeshua, I have access to a wall of righteousness surrounding me – His presence. Following Him, walking in love and forgiveness, shielding my eyes from the evil, obeying His voice and His Word, communing with Him through prayer and worship – all those things keep me within the walls righteousness that exist to protect me.
If you look closely at the tops of the walls in Jerusalem, you’ll notice indentations there – not from a misplaced hammer – but from artillery shells fired at them. To me, each mark only adds to the beauty.
The scars in my life – the losses, disappointments, sorrows – are like beauty marks there to remind me of His goodness and protection.
I think we’re not too different today than the days of Ezekiel. I think He is still looking for those who will stand in the gap and rebuild the walls of righteousness by following Him with a whole, undivided heart. I hear and feel His conviction. I long to be seen and found by Him as one who answered the call boldly and bravely stand in the gap.
Father – thank You for Your Word and how You lovingly convict and correct. You are good and You keep doing good. Your leadership in my life is perfect and You can be trusted. Amen.
Daily Reading: Ezekiel 22-23
September 3, 2022