The gift of self-indulgence

She and her daughter had pride, fullness of food, and abundance of idleness; neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy.               — Ezekiel 16:49

An upscale London department store launched a new gift card with the slogan, “The Gift of Self-Indulgence.” Throughout the store, signs, slogans, and even nametags called attention to the cards. According to one employee, sales of the gift cards during the first weeks of the promotion had been very strong, far exceeding company expectations. Generosity may prompt a person to give a luxurious gift to someone special, but too often we find it easier to purchase what we want for ourselves.

The prophet Ezekiel sheds light on an ancient city whose people suffered God’s judgment, in part, because they embraced a self-indulgent lifestyle. “This was the iniquity of your sister Sodom. She and her daughter had pride, fullness of food and abundance of idleness; neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and needy. And they were haughty and committed abomination before Me; therefore I took them away as I saw fit” (Ezek. 16:49-50).

Historically, the Lord has dealt harshly with His people who became arrogant, overfed, and unconcerned (v. 49). The antidote to the poison of self-indulgence is the desire to please God and serve others, not ourselves (Phil. 2:4).

Self-indulgence is a gift we don’t need.                        — David McCasland

Some are discouraged and weary in heart,

Help somebody today!

Someone the journey

to heaven should start,

Help somebody today!                — Breck

READ: Ezekiel 16:48-56

The more we serve Christ, the less we serve self.

The Bible in one year:

• 2 Kings 24-25

• John 5:1-24