Ezekiel 45 Devotional

Honest Scales in Holy Places

“You must use honest scales, a just ephah, and a just bath.”Ezekiel 45:10 (BSB)

The vision now turns to the land. Before the tribes receive their shares, a holy portion is set apart for the LORD, with the sanctuary at its heart and space for priests, Levites, the city, and the prince (45:1-7). God tells Israel's rulers to stop their violence and oppression, to do what is just and right, and to stop driving his people off their land (45:8-9). Right after that come rules about honest scales and measures (45:10-12).

Weights and measures may seem out of place in a temple vision, but their placement is the point. Worship at God's house and fairness in the marketplace belong together. A ruler who provides the offerings for the feasts (45:17) cannot also cheat the people who bring them. Proverbs says the LORD hates rigged scales and delights in fair weights (Proverbs 11:1). God cares about the grain measure because he cares about the people measured by them. The grace that draws you into his presence also sends you out to deal honestly with your neighbor.

To think about: Where in your work or money dealings might God be calling you to more honesty and fairness toward the people affected?