SOAP 09/13/2011; Ezekiel 33:9

Today's reading: Ezekiel 33,34,35; Revelation 18

S)" ⁹ But if you on your part warn a wicked man to turn from his way and he does not turn from his way, he will die in his iniquity, but you have delivered your life."

Ezekiel 33:9 (NASB)

O) Sometimes, we can do very little to actually influence another person's behavior. In those situations, the most we can do is be obedient to God's command. Ezekiel was called to be a watchman for God's people, he was already dealing with a rebelious people. While the remnant had been saved, they themselves weren't far removed from their heavy idolatry. It's important, though, that people are still warned that their lifestyle is going to kill them. That their behavior will bring themselves to an end.

A) I cannot let a low success rate stop me from spreading the Gospel. The purpose of warning people is not to condemn them - quite the opposite. The whole purpose of warning is to save people! So, with compassion and love, I need to be compelled to share the Gospel. I cannot afford to not tell the people; if I am called as a watchman to a person or people, and I do not speak the truth about their behavior, I'm doing them no favors and I am pouring guilt on my own hands. I need to be bold and loving.

P) Father, give me strength. Holy Spirit, give me clarity to know when I am, in fact, being held accountable as a watchman over some one. Even if it's only for my own sake, I need to know when I am being called specifically to warn and I need to heed that prompting. Even more than that, Lord, soften my heart continually to the people around me. Give me boldness, especially with my family and friends, to speak my loving concern for their eternal well-being. In Jesus' name, I pray. Amen.