And so I will show my greatness and my holiness, and I will make myself known in the sight of many nations. Then they will know that I am the Lord. —Ezekiel 38:23.
“They will know that I am the Lord,” is a familiar refrain in Ezekiel’s prophecies. In today’s verse, this promise should have been horrifying for his people because of their rebellious, sinful, and wicked behaviors. God is holy. The people who claim him as their God have always been called to reflect his character. Their lives must magnify God! If not, God will make sure it is done at their expense. God will be known as God, the I AM, the great Lord and Creator. In our day, when so many profane the name of God and use it so glibly in their reactions and frustration, God’s message should be a sober reminder that even the name of God is holy (Exodus 20:7), and he will act to ensure the nations know he is Lord, awesome in holiness!