S)" 25 'Thus says the Lord GOD, "When I gather the house of Israel from the peoples among whom they are scattered, and will manifest My holiness in them in the sight of the nations, then they will live in their land which I gave to My servant Jacob."'"
Ezekiel 28:25 (NASB)
O) This promise has a distinct sequence that parallels my relationship with God. First, the Israelites are gathered back to God. In the same way, I came to Christ because the Father drew me (see John 6:44). Then, God's holiness is manifested in them, as a gift from God. Equally, Jesus' sacrifice redeemed me and I was given righteousness (holiness) as a gift (see 2 Corinthians 5:21). Finally, they were brought back to their promised land, just as I am given promises as I have now been adopted and am called a son of God (see 1 John 3:1)
A) The first and the last parts of this are already done. I came to Christ and was redeemed; I was adopted by God, and I have also adopted promises from God. The middle, though, is still a process. The righteousness I receive is continual, based on my perpetual repentence and acceptance of God's grace. As I life my life and make mistakes, the holiness from God is blemished (as sin destroys holiness), and consequently, the promises of God are jeopardized. So, I can reclaim those promises by accepting God's mercy, through grace, in repentence. Also, I can protect my God-given righteousness by living holy and pursuing right-living.
P) Father, thank You for drawing me near, God. That is the first part of Your grace which is just, so far beyond me. Your grace is truly amazing and I am in awe as I think on it. And in Your goodness, You provided redemption for me; You gave Jesus as the redemption for my sins! As if that wasn't enough, LORD, You lavish more love on me in the blessings You provide above and beyond my simple salvation. Holy Spirit, continue to humble me, and help me dwell on this grace and to live my life to honor these gifts. Thank You for these blessings, God, in Jesus' name. Amen.
P) Father, thank You for drawing me near, God. That is the first part of Your grace which is just, so far beyond me. Your grace is truly amazing and I am in awe as I think on it. And in Your goodness, You provided redemption for me; You gave Jesus as the redemption for my sins! As if that wasn't enough, LORD, You lavish more love on me in the blessings You provide above and beyond my simple salvation. Holy Spirit, continue to humble me, and help me dwell on this grace and to live my life to honor these gifts. Thank You for these blessings, God, in Jesus' name. Amen.
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