Definition: Because they had not executed my judgments, but had despised my statutes, and had polluted my sabbaths, and their eyes were after their fathers’ idols.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Ezekiel 20:24. It's a really important passage about sin and God’s justice. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Basically, this verse is saying that people were choosing to ignore or disrespect God's laws and commands, and they were actively trying to push aside his plans for them. Let’s unpack each part: “Because they had not executed my judgments…” – This means they didn’t follow through with the punishments God set for wrongdoings. Think of it like ignoring a warning sign on the road - you don't stop and obey! God gave specific rules, and people weren’t respecting them. “…but had despised my statutes…” – This is a bit more complicated. "Statutes" in this context refers to God’s laws, commandments, or guidelines. People were deliberately rejecting or ignoring these laws, treating them as unimportant or even harmful. It's like choosing to ignore a moral code. “…and had polluted my sabbaths…” – “Sabbaths” are days of rest and worship. This means they were taking time off from their lives and activities to focus on God, but they weren’t honoring that time with proper reverence or practice. It's like neglecting a sacred ritual. “And their eyes were after their fathers’ idols.” – This is the most striking part. “Idols” in this context refers to false gods or idols - things we create ourselves, often based on our own desires and whims instead of God. People were so focused on their own wants and ideas that they weren’t listening to God's guidance. They were chasing after something outside of God's plan. So, putting it all together: Ezekiel 20:24 describes a situation where people were rejecting God's laws and honoring his commands, prioritizing their own desires over what’s right, and ignoring the guidance he provides. It highlights the importance of obedience and respecting God’s will. The bigger picture – What does this mean for us? This verse is often seen as a warning to us about: Our tendency to prioritize our own wants over God's. The dangers of ignoring or disrespecting His laws. The importance of listening to and following God’s guidance in all areas of life. It’s a reminder that true happiness and fulfillment come from aligning ourselves with God’s plan, not from pursuing our own desires without regard for his will. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these parts in more detail? Give you some examples of how this verse applies to modern life?