The Departure of God's Glory: Are We Hosting His Presence

Scripture Reading: Ezekiel 10:18 – “Then the glory of the LORD departed from over the threshold of the temple and stopped above the cherubim.”

Devotional Reflection

Ezekiel 10 is a sobering passage that describes a moment no one in Israel ever thought would happen, the glory of the Lord leaving the temple. The same presence that had led them out of Egypt, filled the tabernacle, and symbolized God’s covenant with His people was now departing because of their rebellion and idolatry.

The Israelites had taken God's presence for granted. They assumed He would always dwell among them, no matter how they lived. But God, in His holiness, will not abide in a place where sin is embraced rather than repented of. His departure was not sudden; it was the result of persistent disobedience.

As believers today, we must ask ourselves: Are we living in a way that welcomes or drives away God’s presence? Though God’s Spirit now dwells within us (1 Corinthians 6:19), we can grieve the Holy Spirit through sinful choices, neglecting prayer, and allowing distractions to replace devotion (Ephesians 4:30).

Many times, we long for revival and spiritual breakthroughs, but have we prepared a dwelling place for God? Are our lives temples where He is honored, or have we allowed compromise and complacency to take root?

Application

1. Self-Examination – Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal areas where you may be grieving His presence. Are there sins you’ve ignored? Habits that distance you from God?

2. Repentance and Restoration – God's glory did not return to Israel until the people repented. Confession and turning back to Him restores intimacy with God (1 John 1:9).

3. Daily Fellowship – The presence of God is sustained through worship, prayer, and meditating on His Word. Commit to seeking Him daily.

4. Hosting His Presence – God’s presence is attracted to purity, faith, and a heart that longs for Him. Make your life a place where His glory can rest.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, forgive me for any ways I have taken Your presence for granted. I desire to be a dwelling place for Your glory. Cleanse me, renew my heart, and draw me closer to You. May my life be a temple where You reign forever. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Final Thought

God’s glory does not depart without warning. The question is: Are we listening and responding to His voice before it’s too late? Seek Him today, and make your heart His dwelling place.