August 17

Ezekiel 5:1-9:11

Reading the prophets may feel like you are on a hamster wheel. You are reading a lot but going nowhere. For over a month we have been reading about the imminent judgment coming upon Judah, but it still has not come. Ezekiel is speaking the same judgment as other prophets but speaking in Babylon. What would be the purpose of his prophecies since he is speaking to those who have already been exiled? I think God's purpose in these prophecies are at least two-fold. One, though they are not going to be the recipients of the specific judgment Ezekiel is talking about, they should consider their own hearts and lives and repent of their sin. They should walk in confession and repentance, rather than pride that may come from hearing about the judgment of others. Second, they should pray for Judah. God told Jeremiah any nation can avoid his judgment if they will repent. So those in Babylon should begin praying that Judah might repent and avoid God's wrath. They have been hearing for decades that God's judgment is coming, and in God's patience they still have a chance to turn back to God.

Similarly, we are to be praying for those we know who are still under God’s wrath. Pray they might come to know Jesus as Lord and Savior. Also, let us continually put ourselves before God and walk in humility before his greatness.

Father God, I confess my sin to you today, and pray you would bring revival to our city, country, and world. Amen. 

When you hear of justice falling upon others, how could you remain humble and sensitive to your own sin?

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