How should Ezekiel 20:3 influence our approach to prayer and repentance? Ezekiel 20:3—The Heart of the Issue “Son of man, speak to the elders of Israel and tell them, ‘This is what the Lord GOD says: "Have you come to consult Me? As surely as I live, declares the Lord GOD, I will not be consulted by you."’” Why God Refused to Be Consulted • The elders wanted answers without addressing their sin; God exposed the hypocrisy (vv. 1–4). • Their long history of idolatry showed no real change of heart (vv. 5–31). • Because God is holy, He will not entertain pretended reverence (Isaiah 29:13). Principles for Our Prayer Life • God examines motive before He honors request (Proverbs 16:2). • Harbored sin silences our prayers: “If I had cherished iniquity in my heart, the Lord would not have listened” (Psalm 66:18). • Repentance must precede petition (2 Chronicles 7:14). • God still invites authentic seekers—He withholds only from the unrepentant (Hebrews 4:16). Repentance: Clearing the Line of Communication • Repentance is more than regret; it turns from sin toward obedience (Acts 3:19). • Confession restores fellowship: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us” (1 John 1:9). • When sin is forsaken, God gladly hears: “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you” (James 4:8). Practical Steps to Pray in Light of Ezekiel 20:3 1. Start with self-examination (Psalm 139:23-24). 2. Name specific sins; refuse vague generalities. 3. Renounce any competing “idols” (career, relationships, habits). 4. Receive God’s forgiveness by faith in Christ’s finished work (Romans 8:1). 5. Then bring petitions with confidence, knowing the barrier is removed. Hope for the Honest Seeker God’s “I will not be consulted by you” was not a final sentence but a wake-up call. When His people turn back, He welcomes them freely (Ezekiel 20:43–44). The same Lord still desires responsive hearts today—and He stands ready to listen when prayer is joined to genuine repentance. |
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