How can we prepare for God's judgment as described in Ezekiel 20:36? Setting the Scene: Judgment in the Wilderness • Ezekiel 20:36: “Just as I judged your fathers in the wilderness of the land of Egypt, so I will judge you, declares the Lord GOD.” • The reference points back to Numbers 13–14, where an entire generation fell because of unbelief and rebellion. • God’s judgment is not abstract; it is historical, personal, and certain (Hebrews 10:31). Recognize That Judgment Is Certain • God promises to “enter into judgment”—not merely warn (Ezekiel 20:35–36). • 1 Peter 4:17: “For it is time for judgment to begin with the household of God.” • Living in denial postpones, but never cancels, the reckoning. Preparation starts by acknowledging the reality. Cleansing the Heart through Repentance • Acts 3:19: “Repent therefore and turn back, so that your sins may be wiped away.” • Israel’s wilderness failure began with hardened hearts (Psalm 95:8). • Practical steps: – Invite the Spirit to search motives (Psalm 139:23–24). – Confess specific sins, not vague feelings (1 John 1:9). – Make restitution where possible (Luke 19:8–9). Aligning Actions with Covenant Obedience • Ezekiel 20 highlights repeated idolatry; obedience is the antidote. • John 14:15: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” • Cultivate daily patterns: – Scripture intake (Deuteronomy 6:6–9). – Habitual obedience in small matters; wilderness tests were “day by day” (Exodus 16:4). – Quick surrender when Scripture confronts lifestyle choices. Living by the Fear of the Lord • Proverbs 9:10: “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom.” • Fear here is reverent awe that drives us toward holiness, not terror that paralyzes. • Remembering past judgments fuels godly fear (1 Corinthians 10:11). Holding Fast to the Mediator of the Covenant • Israel lacked a perfect mediator; we have One—Jesus (Hebrews 9:15). • Romans 8:1: “Therefore there is now no condemnation for those who are in Christ Jesus.” • Preparation means resting in His finished work while pursuing holiness (Hebrews 12:14). Nurturing Ongoing Accountability • Hebrews 3:13: “Encourage one another daily … so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.” • Practical avenues: – Transparent relationships in the local church. – Mutual confession and prayer (James 5:16). – Regular self-examination (2 Corinthians 13:5). Encouragement: Walking Worthy Until He Comes • God’s judgments purify His people, not merely punish (Malachi 3:2–3). • Revelation 22:12: “Behold, I am coming soon, and My reward is with Me to repay each one according to what he has done.” • Keep eyes fixed on the promised rest beyond the wilderness (Hebrews 4:9). |
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