An Offer of Life

Ezekiel 32-35

Devotion by Rebecca Dauksas (South Carolina)

The LORD explains so much of His perfect character in Ezekiel. He is merciful, loving, caring and He is just. We continue to see that each person is judged by their conduct and actions. The LORD declares that He takes no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but wants the wicked to turn from their evil ways and live. He warns to “turn back, turn from your evil ways!” The LORD offers life. The LORD sends the message that true repentance brings forgiveness. Ezekiel gives good news to the one that repents and lives for God. “None of his sins that he has committed will be remembered against him. He has practiced justice and righteousness; he shall surely live” (33:16).

Not only does the LORD offer life, but life with Him.  In chapter 34, He gives us this beautiful description of a caring shepherd. The LORD cares for and gathers His sheep. “I will feed them in a good pasture, and their grazing ground will be on the mountain heights of Israel. There they will lie down on good grazing ground and feed in rich pasture on the mountains of Israel. I will feed My flock and I will lead them to rest,” declares the Lord God. “I will seek the lost, bring back the scattered, bind up the broken and strengthen the sick” (verses 14-16a). What a wonderful description of our Good Shepherd.

So why didn’t the people listen to their watchman, Ezekiel? He was giving them the warning against their evil practices and the instructions to turn to the LORD for life. Instead of hearing God’s message, they acted as if Ezekiel were some kind of entertainer. They encouraged each other to come and hear what God’s message was, but just showing up was not enough. The people heard the words, but they did not put them into practice. We are told that they did the lustful desires expressed by their mouth, and their hearts went after their own gain. The LORD told Ezekiel, “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)

I hope that is never said of us. We want to take in the LORD’s message. We will heed the watchman’s warnings and receive the blessings that God offers. The greatest is to always be in His presence. In the presence of our Good Shepherd there will be showers of blessing. (34:26)

Reflection Questions

1. How have you responded to the LORD’s offer of life? Are you hearing the words but not putting them into practice?
2. What warnings do you think Ezekiel (or any modern messenger for the LORD) would have for you today? What role does repentance play?
3. Is there a time/place God is asking you to be a watchman?
4. Do you spend time in the presence of the Good Shepherd? How? How could you remain in His presence more? What are some of the blessings found there?