I’ve mentioned this before, but going through the prophets can be somewhat wearying at times, the reason being that much of their messages seem to be the same, namely messages of judgment.
The same can be said here. Here the elders of Israel came “to inquire of the Lord,” but probably more as people seeking the advice of a fortune teller than as people who were truly seeking God.
And so God, basically tells Ezekiel, “I have nothing to say to them. But if you want, then recount to them their history, and all the evil they have committed. Let them know exactly why I have nothing to say to them.”
But in the midst of all of this is something that we should always remember when going through these passages of judgment. God is also a God of mercy.
As he recounts Israel’s history, he shows this again and again, telling Ezekiel how despite Israel’s rebellion, he had refused to destroy them completely.
He showed them mercy, not because of what they did, but rather because of who he was.
Time and again, he says, “It was for my own name’s sake that I spared them.
“I continued to work with my people, that the nations around them might see that I am a God that is faithful to his promises, even when my people are not faithful to theirs.
“That I am a God that is merciful and forgiving despite their actions.”
I’m so glad that God doesn’t treat me as I deserve. Because I deserve God’s judgment in my life for the things that I do.
But as God showed mercy to Israel, he shows mercy to me. He took me from the kingdom of darkness into his marvelous light. And for that I’m grateful.
Lord, I thank you that you don’t treat me as I deserve. But that you forgive me. Not only that, you’re continuing to shape me into your image.
Lord, help me to loathe the evil in my life. Help me to take on your character each day, that I may become more like you.
And as you’ve extended your mercy to me, let me extend your mercy to those around me. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Moment to Moment (Bible blog) 