READING: Ezekiel 36-39, 2 Peter 1-2
I don’t like to admit it for any of us, but we often sin simply because we enjoy it. Our choices bring some sense of pleasure—albeit temporary and ultimately defeating—but we focus on the immediacy of the act and give little attention to future consequences. Even when conviction sets in, we still sometimes return again and again to the same sin. Our grief is temporary. Our repentance is not lasting. Our obedience remains incomplete as long as we keep going back to our wrong.
The Hebrews had a history of that issue, too. Only when God stepped in in judgment and renewal, not for their sake but for the glory of His name, did anything change. They would indeed change, but that transformation would come because of God’s desire to magnify His holy name among the nations. As recipients of God’s undying mercy and grace—and as people undeservedly blessed again—they would then see their sin in the light of God’s holiness: “You will remember your evil ways and your deeds that were not good, and you will loathe yourselves for your iniquities and detestable practices” (Ezek 36:31). They would be ashamed, embarrassed, and convicted over their wrong; their loathing over yesterday’s sin would bring them to repentance and renewal today. And, in the end, God alone would get the glory.
Today, may God bring us to the place where we, too, detest our sin.
PRAYER: “God, I can’t get there on my own. Help me. Change me.”
DAILY ACTION STEP: As God convicts you of your sin today, meditate on His merciful, gracious love. Dwell on His forgiveness—don’t take it lightly.
TOMORROW’S READING: Ezekiel 40-41, 2 Peter 3