REALITY CAN BE SOBERING
Ezekiel
33:10-11 "Son of man, say to the house of Israel, `This is what you are
saying: "Our offenses and sins weigh us down, and we are wasting away
because of them. How then can we live?" ' Say to them, `As surely as I
live, declares the Sovereign LORD, I take no pleasure in the death of the
wicked, but rather that they turn from their ways and live. Turn! Turn from
your evil ways! Why will you die, O house of Israel?'
“In the
days of the Old Testament prophets, as well as now, there were people so foolish
as to say, “God is too good to send anyone to hell.” The prophet Ezekiel was
quick to emphasize that God had no pleasure in the death of the wicked. God
longs for men to turn from their evil ways and to live. A discerning prophet of
a loving God never gives people the impression that God hates sinners. God
loves sinners with an undying love; it is death-dealing sin which God hates
with a fierceness born of his righteous love.”
Hell is
proof that God hates sin. Those who persist in sinfulness will receive what God
has ordained for sin and sinners. Separation from God’s presence for all
eternity. It was Satan who challenged God’s position and authority when he
tempted Eve. Century after century people continue to listen to Satan rather
than God or his prophets.
Jesus
Christ is proof that God loves sinners. Allowing him entry into our hearts and
lives brings an end to the rule of Satan and sin in us. Yet, people still
reject His offer of salvation. Instead of life, people choose careers, people,
wealth, drugs, pleasure, knowledge, fame or power. In themselves, these
activities may not be sinful. But allowing them to replace God is sinful. It is
this willful choice on a sinners part that leaves them without hope, still lost
in sin and apart from God. What is getting in the way of your continued
devotion and faith in God?
Prayer: The
reality of hell is difficult for many to accept. Father help mankind understand
not only the punishment that awaits the unrepentant but the love and grace that
awaits those who turn from their sins and embrace your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
