6 Minute Read + Scripture readings
TODAY’S BIBLE READING:
Ezekiel 21:1–22:31
Hebrews 10:1-17
Psalm 108:1-13
Proverbs 27:12
TODAY’S BIBLE VERSE(S):
Ezekiel 22:30 (CSB): “I searched for a man among them who would repair the wall and stand in the gap before me on behalf of the land so that I might not destroy it, but I found no one.”
REFLECTIONS ON TODAY’S BIBLE VERSE(S):
Today’s Bible reading in Ezekiel was certainly not one that would warm our hearts. It didn’t have any verses that would get a lot of “likes” on Facebook.
Instead, it was filled with verses that expressed God’s frustration and anger with His people. They had rebelled against Him for so long that His patience had run out. He was warning them through His prophet that judgment was coming.
However, if we read those verses and come away thinking that God is simply an angry, vindictive God, then we missed the point entirely. God was simply warning His people of what their persistent sinful actions demanded. If they continued in sin, then God could not remain indifferent. He who is holy must punish sin.
But, repentance would have changed things completely. All they needed to do was to hear the divine warnings, recognize how far they had strayed from their God, confess their sins with broken hearts, and call out for God’s grace and mercy. I’m convinced that God’s judgment could have been avoided … or at least postponed.
Our Verse for Today tells us that God was actively looking for someone to call His people back to Himself. He was looking for someone, anyone, who loved Him and would cry out for God’s people to come back from their destructive, sinful ways that demanded judgment.
But, the last line of the verse leaves our mouth gaping with surprise. It shocks us.
Ezekiel 22:30 (CSB): “I searched for a man among them who would repair the wall and stand in the gap before me on behalf of the land so that I might not destroy it, but I found no one.”
Friend, if you have a wayward spouse or child, then you are the one who should stand in the gap between God and your family member. You should humbly and compassionately call them back but you should also wear your knees out as you call out to God on their behalf.
If you have a wayward friend, then you are the one who should stand in the gap. Plead with them and God.
If you are part of a wayward church, then you are the one who should stand in the gap.
If you are in a wayward community (we aren’t in Heaven yet, and sin is still prevalent, so our communities are wayward), then you are the one who should stand in the gap.
Friend, you have a purpose! You can be the one standing in the gap between God and those who have gone astray. Plead with them to come into right relationship with God. And plead with God that He would melt hearts and draw people to Himself.
Stand in the gap!
Friend, God is looking for someone to stand in the gap as He desires to draw people to Himself. Will His eyes settle upon you or will it be said that He couldn’t find anyone? I hope you will take your responsibility and privilege seriously.
Ezekiel 22:30 (CSB): “I searched for a man among them who would repair the wall and stand in the gap before me on behalf of the land so that I might not destroy it, but I found no one.”
Matt’s Musings 