Today’s Reading: Ezekiel 33; Ezekiel 34; Ezekiel 35; Revelation 18
Scripture: Ezekiel 33:14-16
14 And if I say to the wicked man, 'You will surely die,' but he then turns away from his sin and does what is just and right- 15 if he gives back what he took in pledge for a loan, returns what he has stolen, follows the decrees that give life, and does no evil, he will surely live; he will not die. 16 None of the sins he has committed will be remembered against him. He has done what is just and right; he will surely live.
Observation: The truth expressed in and around this section in Ezekiel is so important. He talks about the fact that God doesn't dwell in the past, or condemn anyone for the past, or even reward anyone for the past (that is, if that person is doing evil in the present). God says, you can change, you can alter your life by doing different things. Specifically here, in this passage, he gives the principle of repentance. God gives a warning of impending doom. If the warning is heeded and the person truly changes, God will change the outcome for the person. But note clearly that this change must be real, not just in word but in deed. And it must demonstrate a desire to right past wrongs.
Application: Many people talk about change. Many people say they want change. But precious few actually take the steps necessary to put the change into practice. This is what true repentance is.
Prayer: Lord, help me and all your people to truly repent. Give us ears to hear your warnings, hearts to receive and grieve, and the will to carry out our repentance with actions of restoration and restitution. Lord, give us the desire and the power by your grace that we may abide in your presence.
This I pray in Jesus’ name, Amen.
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