R³ Devotional - Day 253

Ezekiel chapter 43 describes the return of the Lord's glory to a new, visionary temple, which signifies His permanent presence among His people if they abandon idolatry. The Lord then provides specific instructions for the temple's altar, including its measurements and the required ceremonies for its consecration, emphasizing the holiness and order necessary for approaching God. The chapter acts as a blueprint for a restored Israel, demonstrating God's enduring covenant and the restoration of His sacred dwelling place.

Real Life Principles

1. God’s Presence is the Ultimate Blessing - Ezekiel sees God’s presence and glory return to the temple. The greatest joy in life isn’t success or material possession but living in God’s presence. 
2. True worship requires sacrifice - The altar is described and offerings are demanded as a way of consecrating it. Genuine worship isn’t only about feelings, it should cost us something. Today that cost is time, obedience or maybe serving others.

Relevant Life Applications

1. Seek Restoration, not just Forgiveness- if there is something that takes God’s place in your heart, confess it and surrender it. Don't just ask God for forgiveness, ask him to restore your closeness with Him. 
2. Let God’s presence transform your relationships - If the Holy Spirit is within you, it should affect how you treat others around you. Would people see God’s presence in your words and actions? 
3. Pursue holiness daily- in everything we do, we have the choice to glorify God or glorify earthly things. With every choice, remember to examine whether the choice is glorifying God. 

Ready Action Steps

1. Welcome God's presence daily - start each day with prayer or scripture, inviting God to be with you. Make sure to take time throughout the day to remember He is with you. 
2. Reflect and Repent regularly- end every day with prayer, thanking God for every blessing and confessing all your shortcomings and sin. Asking God to keep you aligned to His holiness.