Scripture
“This is what the Sovereign Lord says: You have gone far enough, princes of Israel! Give up your violence and oppression and do what is just and right. Stop dispossessing my people, declares the Sovereign Lord.”
— Ezekiel 45:9 (NIV)
Observation
In Ezekiel’s time, the nation had been conquered, and the kings of Judah were gone. Yet among the exiles and the few who remained in the land, there were still “princes” (Hebrew: nāśî’)—local rulers, nobles, and officials who held power. These leaders were supposed to protect the people, uphold justice, and steward the land fairly according to God’s law. Instead, they used their power to enrich themselves—seizing land, using violence, and oppressing the weak (see Ezekiel 22:6, 27; Micah 3:1–3). God interrupts Ezekiel’s vision of a restored society to issue a sharp rebuke: “You have gone far enough… Stop dispossessing my people.”
God’s patience had run out. This marks a turning point: God demands that leadership be redefined—not as taking, but as serving. It also foreshadows the coming of a righteous Prince, the Messiah, who would shepherd God’s people with justice and compassion (Ezekiel 34:23–24; Isaiah 9:6–7).
Application
God cares deeply about how we use any influence or authority we are given—whether at work, at home, in ministry, or even among friends.
It is easy to slip into patterns of self-interest or control, especially if we feel entitled to them. But God calls us to turn from even small forms of oppression or selfishness, and to actively do what is just and right.
Questions to ask myself:
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Am I using my words, position, or resources to serve others or to push them aside?
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Are there places where I have tolerated small injustices because they benefit me?
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How can I reflect the heart of the true Prince—Jesus—who gave His life for His people?
Prayer
Jesus, forgive me for the times I have sought my own advantage at the cost of others. Search my heart and show me any hidden pride or patterns of control. Help me use whatever influence I have to lift others up, not push them down. Teach me to walk in justice, mercy, and humility before You.
Amen.
