How can Ezekiel 7:9 inspire us to live righteously in today's world? Setting the Scene • Ezekiel 7 records the LORD’s final verdict on Judah’s persistent sin. • Verse 9 declares God’s just response: “I will not look on you with pity or spare you. I will repay you according to your ways, and your abominations will be upon you. Then you will know that it is I, the LORD, who strikes.” • These words expose sin’s seriousness and God’s unwavering commitment to justice. What the Verse Says • “I will not look on you with pity or spare you” — divine justice is impartial and inevitable. • “I will repay you according to your ways” — human choices carry real consequences. • “Then you will know that it is I, the LORD, who strikes” — judgment reveals God’s sovereignty and holiness. Timeless Truths 1. God’s character is consistent: He always upholds holiness (Malachi 3:6). 2. Sin invites judgment, but repentance invites mercy (Proverbs 28:13). 3. Awareness of accountability motivates righteousness (Romans 14:12). Guidelines for Righteous Living Today • Examine your ways regularly. – Psalm 139:23-24: “Search me, O God… see if there is any offensive way in me.” • Reject complacency toward sin. – 1 Peter 1:15-16: “Be holy in all you do.” • Embrace personal responsibility. – Galatians 6:7: “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked.” • Pursue obedience out of reverence, not fear alone. – John 14:15: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” • Cultivate a lifestyle of quick repentance. – 1 John 1:9: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us.” • Encourage accountability within the faith community. – Hebrews 10:24-25: “Stir one another to love and good works.” Encouragement for Daily Walk • Let the certainty of God’s justice fuel gratitude for His grace in Christ (Romans 5:8-9). • Remember that righteous living is empowered by the Spirit, not human effort alone (Galatians 5:16). • Resolve each day to choose actions that honor the LORD, knowing that “the eyes of the LORD are in every place” (Proverbs 15:3). |
    |