Scripture Union Daily Guide 18 August 2021 – God’s Desire For The Wicked To Repent

Scripture Union Daily Guide 18 August 2021 Wednesday Message

Topic: God’s Desire For The Wicked To Repent

Opening Prayer: Let me know more of you today dear Lord as I meditate on your word.

Scripture: Ezekiel 18:19-32

Question(s) for Reflection
• What does the passage teach about God the Father, God the Son or God the Holy Spirit?

• Is there any example for me to follow or not to follow?

Ezekiel responds to the questions of his hearers given in v.19, just as he had responded to that of v.2. He introduces two more case studies. Wicked people who turn away from their sins can experience God’s forgiveness, and righteous people who begin sinning will be judged (vs.21-24). People determine their end by the decision they make. Ezekiel was giving the Jewish nation a message of hope. If they would truly repent and turn to the Lord, He would work on their behalf as He promised (Jeremiah 29:10-14).

However, if they persist in sinning, the Lord will continue to deal with them as rebellious children. God’s patience means opportunity for repentance. He has no delight in the death of the wicked (v.23). True repentance begins with accepting personal responsibility for one’s evil ways and taking steps to embrace God’s love.

Consider the complaints of the Jews in exile in v.25. They wanted God to deliver them on their own terms. In His great love, God gave a gracious covenant to Israel, demanding only their worship and service from their heart but they failed. When sinners repent and seek God, the Lord in His grace forgives them. Notice how the message concludes: anyone who seeks the Lord, receives by faith a new heart and a new spirit.

• Any new insight or reinforcement of what you already know?

Closing Prayer
• O Lord, create in me a new heart and renew your spirit within me.

• Pray that the political leaders will act and conduct themselves in a manner that promotes peace and unity of their country.

Offer a prayer of faith in line with Isaiah 12:2;Psalms 100-102; Gal. 3

Scripture Union Daily Guide 18  August 2021. Scripture Union is an international, inter-denominational, evangelical Christian organization. It was founded in 1867, and works in partnership with individuals and churches across the world. The organization’s stated aim is to use the Bible to inspire children, young people and adults to know God