One definition of the word charmed is a quality that makes something attractive or likable. As Christians, there are many things the devil uses to charm us and draw us away from God.
In the days of Ezekiel, the children of Israel were charmed to desert God. I want us to examine what charmed them so we can avoid the same mistakes.
“She doted upon the Assyrians, her neighbors, captains, and rulers clothed most gorgeously, horsemen riding upon horses, all of them desirable young men. Then I saw that she was defiled, that they took both one way”
Ezekiel 23:12-13
Israel loved or doted upon certain people. These people typify what can draw us away from God and I want us to examine them one by one.
“The Assyrians her neighbors” This represents wrong associations. The Assyrians were Israel’s neighbors and friends. When you fellowship with unbelievers, that association can draw you away from God.
“Captains and rulers” This represents the fear of man. It also represents people of power and privilege. You can betray your Christian principles to gain favor in the sight of influential people.
“Rulers clothed most gorgeous” This represents the love of money.
The attraction of wealth, money and the finer things of this life can lead you to compromise.
“Desirable young men” This represents physical beauty. It’s a mistake to place beauty and physical looks above biblical principles. I have seen many people make marital choices solely based on looks. Many have not ended well.
Let’s guard our hearts and let’s make sure that nothing can separate us from the love of God.
Kakra Baiden
