September 1, 2026

Scriptures: Ezekiel 9–12 |

These chapters continue Ezekiel’s heartbreaking vision of Jerusalem, and one image dominates everything…the glory of God begins to actually leave the temple. The place built to host His presence had become filled with idolatry and rebellion. Yet God does not leave suddenly or casually. His glory moves gradually, almost reluctantly, from the inner sanctuary to the threshold, then toward the edge of the city. Grace shows up in patience. Even after years of rejection, God is slow to withdraw His presence from the people He loves.

But exile does not mean God has abandoned everyone. While some in Jerusalem believed they were secure because they remained near the temple, God tells Ezekiel that He has been “a sanctuary” to His scattered people in the countries where they were sent. The building they associated with God’s presence could be lost, but God Himself could not. His presence was able to meet His people even in places they never wanted to be.

Then comes an extraordinary promise in Ezekiel 11. God says He will gather His people again and “give them singleness of heart and put a new spirit within them.” Their deepest problem cannot be solved simply by returning to Jerusalem or rebuilding the temple. They need inward transformation. God is not satisfied merely to bring His people back to a place…He intends to bring their hearts back to Himself.

Jesus will become the true meeting place between God and humanity, making God’s presence available wherever His people are. And through Him, the promise of inward transformation begins to be fulfilled as the Holy Spirit gives new life and changes our desires. In Christ, God does more than change where we are…He changes who we are becoming.

Challenge Questions:

Have you ever confused being near spiritual things with actually being close to God?

If everything you are familiar with were stripped away, what would remain at the center of your relationship with God?