I remember hearing an evangelist/Bible speaker admit that he had no idea what the book of Ezekiel was about and even wondered why God included it in the Bible. This prophetic book is one of the biggies of the Old Testament. And it's dissed by someone who should have known better? Couldn't believe my ears when he spouted off against good old Ezekiel.
For I'm intrigued by this book. The more I read it, the more I love it. How about you? Have you read it? Just a cursory glance or two? Then get out your water wings, we're going for a swim (and I can't swim!).
After many chapters in Ezekiel about the coming judgment, I'm stopped by three verses at the end of chapter 18. This section centers on the fair treatment of those who sin. This is not passing judgment as if it is inherited from father to son or son to father, but being judged only by what that particular individual does against God's will.
I easily get bogged down with what I deserve from the Lord. Guilt hovers not far away after I've thumbed my nose at God. You see, I try to fool Him. Put one over on the Big Guy. Really? Are you sure? Actually, the wool is pulled over my eyes. Can't ever hoodwink or dupe our Lord.
But you know what? Despite my playing games with God, He's always there to comfort, forgive, hear my confessions, and note my tears. When exactly does this happen? When we come back to Him. Those times when we're honestly sorry.
Hear Ezekiel 18--'Therefore I will judge you...every one according to his ways, declares the Lord God. Repent and turn from all your transgressions, lest iniquity be your ruin. Cast away from you all the transgressions that you have committed, and make yourselves a new heart and a new spirit! Why will you die...? For I have no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares the Lord God; so turn, and live' (vs.30-32).
Such passionate words from God's heart to ours. He yearns for everyone to come back to Him. To be forgiven. Therefore, given a new heart and spirit from God Himself. Why not reach out to Him? To ask Him into your life? What have you got to lose? Really a lot I'm sure you'd like to get rid of!
I can imagine some evangelist preaching these verses. Hey, I just did! How about asking the Lord Jesus into your heart? He's the hope that will never let you down. Never.
Lord Jesus, I want to be yours forever. I believe in you. Amen.
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