The Great Reversal to Come

“The Great Reversal to Come” helps us see beyond temporary status and success, reminding us that God will ultimately reorder everything according to His eternal purposes.

“Thus says the Lord God: Remove the turban and take off the crown. Things shall not remain as they are. Exalt that which is low, and bring low that which is exalted” (Ezekiel 21:26).

God told the people of Ezekiel’s time that things “shall not remain as they are.” There would be changes: The important would be made unimportant; buildings that seemed magnificent would become a ruin; people who were powerful would be humbled and made insignificant.

This promise of change seems unsettling, but it’s a constant theme throughout the Bible. We see this when Jesus told His disciples that things would change “in the new world, when the Son of Man will sit on his glorious throne” (Matthew 19:28).

In this world, some seem powerful while others appear weak. Some are rich while others are poor. Some achieve fame while others live in obscurity. But Jesus said that “many who are first will be last, and the last first” (Matthew 19:30).

God sees everything from the perspective of eternity. What is honored by the world often means nothing to Him. He sees those who are faithful servants, and He promises to honor them. He promises to reward all who faithfully invest the resources He’s given them and all those who are fruitful for His Kingdom … even if they receive no recognition on earth.

You can be sure that everything on earth will change in some way. Do not be shaken, but remember to focus your life on God, for He does not change (Malachi 3:6). Remember that Jesus is “the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8).

Reflection Question: Are you living for what lasts in God’s eyes?