Son of man, say to the house of Israel, This is
what you are saying: Our offenses and sins weigh us down, and we are wasting
away because of them. How then can we live? Say to them, As surely as I live,
declares the Sovereign Lord, I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but
rather that they turn from their ways and live. Turn! Turn from your evil
ways! Why will you die, O house of Israel? 33:10-12
Footnote: The exiles were discouraged by their past
sins. This is an important turning point in this book -- elsewhere in Ezekiel
the people had refused to face their sins. Here, they felt heavy guilt for
rebelling against God for so many years. Therefore, God assured them of
forgiveness if they repented. God wants everyone to turn to him. He looks at
what we are and will become, not what we have been. God gives you the
opportunity to turn to him, if you will take it. Sincerely follow God, and ask
him to forgive you when you fail.
Indeed, to them you are nothing more than one who
sings love songs with a beautiful voice and plays an instrument well, for they
hear your words but do not put them into practice. 33:32
Footnote: The people were coming to listen to Ezekiel in
order to be entertained. They weren't interested in hearing a message from the
Lord and then putting it into practice. Many people see church as
entertainment. They enjoy the music, the people, and the activities, but they
don't take the messages to heart. They don't seek to be challenged or to
serve. Have you reduced church services to the level of entertainment, or does
your worship truly have an impact on your life? Listen to God's words and then
obey -- apply his words and put them into practice in your life.
Keep reading -- 103 days left!
All footnotes taken from the Life Application Study Bible, NIV
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