Turn! – September 17, 2023

“Son of man, say to the Israelites, ‘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, people of Israel?’
Ezekiel 33:10,11

Turn!

What would you do if the doctor entered the exam room and announced, “If you don’t pursue a healthier lifestyle, you will not live to see your children grow up?” You would make some changes.

What would you do if your fiscal advisor told you to adjust your investment strategy for some financial security in this turbulent economy? You would listen to his advice and follow his recommendations.

But what do you do when your conscience screams at you for the harsh words you spoke to your spouse last night? What about the times you lusted after the person walking down the street? What about the bitterness in your heart for the blessings someone else has received? What about the anger toward God for those times when things didn’t go the way you thought they should? What are you to do at those times?

This is where the words of the Lord to the prophet Ezekiel apply. The Lord says, “I take no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but rather that they turn from their ways and live.” So what action follows these words? “Turn! Turn from your evil ways!” Get rid of your bitterness and rage. Use your tongue to give glory to God and encourage one another. Turn from the sins you have committed and hold on to the Lord. He has removed the penalty of death for sin. He gives you eternal life, guaranteed by Jesus’ victor crown as he carried your sin for you and overcame death.

What do you do when the Lord gives you the certainty of eternal life? Turn! Turn from your sins and to the forgiveness of the Lord.

Prayer:
Sovereign Lord, I know that you do not take pleasure in the death of the wicked. Forgive my sins. Let me never forget the life you give me through the blood of Jesus. Amen.