How can Ezekiel 33:13 guide us in maintaining a faithful Christian walk? Setting the Context “ ‘If I tell the righteous that he will surely live, but he trusts in his righteousness and commits iniquity, none of his righteous acts will be remembered; he will die because of the iniquity he has committed.’ ” (Ezekiel 33:13) Key Truths from Ezekiel 33:13 • Past faithfulness is not a license for present sin. • Trusting in personal righteousness rather than God’s grace is deadly. • Ongoing obedience matters; God remembers unrepented sin. • The warning is given to preserve life, not rob joy (Ezekiel 33:11). Guarding Against Spiritual Complacency • “Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed, lest he fall.” (1 Corinthians 10:12) • Spiritual victories of yesterday require fresh surrender today. • Regular self-examination keeps small compromises from becoming entrenched (Psalm 139:23-24). Dependence, Not Self-Reliance • Salvation is by grace through faith, not by works (Ephesians 2:8-9). • Any “righteousness” apart from Christ is “filthy rags” (Isaiah 64:6). • Like Paul, resolve to “be found in Him, not having my own righteousness” (Philippians 3:9). Perseverance in Obedience • “Work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you.” (Philippians 2:12-13) • Daily abiding in Christ bears lasting fruit (John 15:4-6). • Faith that saves is faith that endures (Hebrews 3:14; Matthew 10:22). Practical Steps for a Steadfast Walk 1. Start each day in Scripture and prayer; let God’s Word judge attitudes (Hebrews 4:12). 2. Confess sin immediately; keep short accounts with God (1 John 1:9). 3. Cultivate accountability—invite trusted believers to speak truth in love (James 5:16). 4. Serve actively; obedience reinforces faith (James 1:22). 5. Feed on grace: remember the gospel often, rejoicing that Christ “is able to keep you from stumbling” (Jude 24). 6. Guard your influences—media, friendships, habits—so nothing nurtures iniquity (Proverbs 4:23). Encouragement for Today Ezekiel 33:13 is a wake-up call, yet also an invitation. The same God who warns of judgment promises, “I take no pleasure in anyone’s death…repent and live!” (Ezekiel 18:32). By relying on Christ, walking in the Spirit (Galatians 5:16), and persevering in obedience, believers can enjoy a steadfast, fruitful journey until faith becomes sight. |
    |