Walls of the temple

Walls of the temple

Scripture: "I saw a wall completely surrounding the temple area. The length of the measuring rod in the man's hand was six long cubits, each of which was a cubit and a handbreadth. He measured the wall; it was one measuring rod thick and one rod high." (Ezekiel 40:5)

Observation: The next part of Ezekiel’s temple that we focus on is the wall surrounding the temple area. It is a wall completely connected all the way round, and it is thick and high.

What are the main purposes of walls? Firstly, walls are for separation, separating the holiness of God’s temple from the common things outside. When we are in Christ, we are also separate, set apart from the things of the world. The Holy Spirit in us, a powerful conscience, is like a wall of holiness turning us away from evil, but keeping us in God’s paths. There is a Proverb which says “Like a city without walls is a person who lacks self-control (25:28) The Fruit of the Spirit – Self-control, is like a wall keeping us from sin.

Secondly, walls are for protection, for keeping out enemies. All great cities have walls. Jericho of old was a city with a great wall, but it could not stand before the Living God of Israel who was with Joshua and the Israelites. Separation and Protection come together. When we leave the ways of the world, and follow the ways of God, God becomes our Protector, our Shelter, our Refuge.

Finally, walls in Ezekiel’s temple was also used for useful and creative purposes – for decorations, for holding up the portico, for having alcoves (rooms) for the guards. When we are within the walls of safety in our Lord Jesus, it is not just to stay there and do nothing but to be useful. In God’s service there are plenty of creative things we can do to serve Him, each according to his or her own ability and imagination.

Application:  Thinking of walls, remember that we are called out to be separate and holy, from the world. Remember that God is our protector, and no one can harm us if we are in Him. Finally, remember that we are safe to be useful. So let us pray that God will inspire us to serve Him in different, creative ways, to build up the body of Christ.

Prayer: Lord, I thank You that You called me out to be separate and holy, set apart for You. Help me stay within the wonderful walls of Your protection as You give me Your Holy Spirit. Inspire my heart I pray, that I may serve You more and more, and find joy and creativity in pleasing you. In Jesus name, Amen.