SCRIPTURE
"Therefore say to the house of Israel, 'Thus says the Lord God, "It is not for your sake, O house of Israel, that I am about to act, but for My Holy name, which you have profaned among the nations where you went. I will vindicate the holiness of My great name which has been profaned among the nations, which you have profaned in their midst. Then the nations will know that I am the Lord," declares the Lord God, "when I prove Myself holy among you in their sight."'" (Ezekiel 36:22-23, NASB)
OBSERVATION
God is concerned about his reputation, especially with people who do not have a relationship with Him. He is holy, or set apart from the things of this earth. His people had profaned His great name by their deeds and actions. They made it common, brought it down to earth, to such an extent that the nations no longer had a correct view of who He was. However, God was not content with having His name ruined. He was going to act to vindicate Himself so that once again His name was set apart and above every other name. That way the nations would know He is the Lord.
APPLICATION
How people view God's name, His reputation, is connected to how I wear His name. He said He would vindicate His name by proving Himself "holy among you in their sight." My deeds and actions communicate to people who God is. My life either shows God's holiness or profanes His name. When I live a life that is set apart, that is different, I demonstrate that God is set apart and that His ways are different.
PRAYER
Lord, you take your reputation very seriously. I want to strive for holiness so a watching world can see who you really are. Thank you for the power of your Spirit that helps me to live a life that honors you.
