Definition: And it shall be no more the confidence of the house of Israel, which bringeth [their] iniquity to remembrance, when they shall look after them: but they shall know that I [am] the Lord GOD.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 29:16. It's a really important and layered message about God’s relationship with Israel. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that God – specifically the Lord God – has a special, watchful eye over Israel. It’s not just about them being responsible for their own well-being; it's about God actively remembering and guarding them. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “And it shall be no more the confidence of the house of Israel…” – This is the key part. It means that the Israelites, in their own thinking and judgment, shouldn't be overly worried or focused on their own mistakes and failures. They shouldn’t feel like they’re solely responsible for everything that goes wrong. It’s a shift from self-reliance to God's guidance. “…which bringeth [their] iniquity to remembrance…” – This is a tricky word. "Iniquity" means sin, wrongdoing, or moral failings. It refers to the things that are wrong and that they do that are not right. “…when they shall look after them:” - This suggests a future time when Israel will be under God’s watchful care. It implies a sense of protection and guidance. “But they shall know that I [am] the Lord GOD.” – This is the crucial part! It’s stating that God himself, the Lord God, is aware of all things happening to Israel. He's not just observing them; he's actively involved in their destiny and fate. It emphasizes a divine sovereignty over their lives. Overall Meaning & Context: This verse paints a picture of God as a powerful and protective presence. It’s a reassurance that God is always watching over his people, knows what they are doing (even if they don't realize it), and will intervene to ensure their safety and well-being. It's about God’s active involvement in the lives of His chosen people. Why is this important? This passage is often interpreted as a foreshadowing of God’s ultimate plan for Israel, leading to their eventual restoration and blessing. It speaks to the idea that God doesn’t just allow things to happen; He actively guides them toward good outcomes. --- Do you want me to: Explain another part of this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific story or event in the Bible? Discuss what this verse might mean for our relationship with God today?