Read Ezekiel 11 – 13
Therefore say, Thus saith the Lord GOD; Although I have cast them far off among the heathen, and although I have scattered them among the countries, yet will I be to them as a little sanctuary in the countries where they shall come. Ezekiel 11:16 KJV
Having been removed from the Temple, Jerusalem, and the land, those in the Babylonian captivity had good reason to feel separated from God. The people of Israel equated God’s blessing and presence with all three. People will sometimes feel the same way today equating God’s presence with a church building. God wanted them to know, though they had been punished and removed from the land, He had not forsaken them. In fact, He would still be with them. Such news must have been comforting. No matter how far removed and widely scattered they were they could still enjoy His presence. They did not need the Temple in Jerusalem; He would be their own little sanctuary right where they were. Meaning they could worship Him where they were. That is the same assurance we have. God is a little sanctuary for every believer (1 Corinthians 3:16; 2 Corinthians 6:16).
Lord, Your Word makes it clear that You are with me wherever I go, help me never forget that, help me to always live with the understanding that I am in Your presence. I can worship you at home, at work, and in a church building. You are my sanctuary.
A question to ponder: If a place of worship, like a church building, is not necessary to worship God, what makes it an important part of every believer’s life?
