A mark on their foreheads

A mark on their foreheads

Scripture: Now the glory of the God of Israel went up from above the cherubim, where it had been, and moved to the threshold of the temple. Then the LORD called to the man clothed in linen who had the writing kit at his side and said to him, “Go throughout the city of Jerusalem and put a mark on the foreheads of those who grieve and lament over all the detestable things that are done in it.” Ezekiel 9:3-4

Observation: In an interesting picture in chapter 9 of Ezekiel, we see the Lord call out to a man clothed in linen who has a writing kit. This man is asked to go throughout the city of Jerusalem and put a mark on the foreheads of those who grieve and lament at the detestable things that are being done. Other angels are asked to follow the man and kill everyone except those the man in linen marks.

Who are these who will be given the mark of salvation? They are those who do not delight in evil but abhor it and grieve that such terrible things are done. In today’s world greatly influenced by Hollywood, we see violence, immorality and greed being desired by the people of the world. Even Christians have grown to enjoy watching movies with all of these. Even horror and murder is greatly enjoyed by people everywhere.

We are called to think about whatever is noble, true, right, pure, lovely, admirable, about anything excellent or praiseworthy. However, the opposite if often true.

In the end times, there will be a marking as well. The Anti-Christ will mark his own by the number 666, and those who have the mark will receive the wrath of God and ultimate judgment for eternity in the lake of fire.

Application: We need to be more aware of what we think about. The mind is the battlefield, and we need to be alert and guard our minds in Christ Jesus. We would do well to fill our minds with Scripture and listen to worship songs rather than listen to ungodly tapes or watch television shows or movies that glorify evil.

Prayer: Lord, forgive me for the times when I have let my mind stray and seek the things of the world, and become desensitized to evil. Create in me a pure heart and mind O Lord, that detests evil and desires for Your goodness, love and purity to come upon the earth. Bless You, Lord. In Jesus name, Amen