Young Lions

“You compared yourself to a young lion of the nations, yet you are like the monster in the seas; and you burst forth in your rivers and muddied the waters with your feet and fouled their rivers.” – Ezekiel 32:2 NASB

In a novel he wrote in 1948, Irwin Shaw used the phrase “young lions” to describe soldiers who fought in World War II. Since ancient times, this phrase has described people who were arrogant and ambitious.

God used this phrase to describe Egypt, a nation proud of its heritage and accomplishments, a nation that felt invincible. But God had a different point of view.

God declared that eventually everyone would be humbled in His sight, particularly the nations and people who thought of themselves as invincible, proud, and arrogant.

Who are today’s young lions? They are athletes, supremely confident in their abilities; celebrities, caught up in their physical appeal and image; politicians, determined to expand their power; media moguls, driven to advance their agendas; armies and nations defiantly dedicated to advancing their kingdoms.

Today, as throughout history, God promises that everyone will be humbled, every “young lion.”

Everything is different for those who trust God. As Psalm 91 describes, they “will walk upon the lion and cobra.” They will “trample the young lion and serpent” (v. 13). God will give them peace and security. He will deliver them from fear and protect them.

Don’t trust in yourself, but trust in God. Seek to be free of pride. Humble yourself before Him. Dedicate your life to serving Him. In everything, seek first His Kingdom.

Reflection Question: Have you ever been humbled before God?