September 7, 2012 (2 Kings 25, 2 Chronicles 36; Jeremiah 40-41; Revelation 12)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “The Lord, the God of their ancestors, repeatedly sent his prophets to warn them, for he had compassion on his people and his Temple. But the people mocked these messengers of God and despised their words. They scoffed at the prophets until the Lord’s anger could no longer be restrained and nothing could be done.” 2 Chronicles 36:15-16 NLT
Observation: God has great patience with His people. He graciously gave warning after warning because of His great love for His people. But the people mocked the messengers He sent and ignored the message that was delivered. The message that was delivered to save them, and protect them, was discarded and treated with contempt. God desired what was best for His people, but the people settled for destruction over salvation. They scoffed at the prophets God had sent and rejected His merciful message so long, that God finally had enough. He brought the King of Babylon against them to destroy their wickedness because of His great love for them.
Application: There is a great lesson for us to learn from the people of past times. They suffered greatly because they refused to repent and accept God’s mercy and grace. They chose to hold on to their sin rather than exchange it for pardon and forgiveness. We do the same things. We repeat the same mistakes. God, and His message, are being rejected and ignored today just as then. We are fools to think that His anger is not being kindled against us. We are naive to think He will allow sin to run rampant in His people. We are crazy to boast and trust in our own power and strength. The Babylon army is being prepared for battle and will march to war at God’s command. Repent and turn to God while there’s still time!
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for this day. Thank You for Your mercy and grace that provide and protect me every day. Give me wisdom to know what’s right and the courage to do what’s right at all times. Open my ears to hear the message You are speaking. Allow me the privilege of repentance once more. Keep me from evil and deliver me from the grasp of my enemy. Rise up! Fight for me and win, in Jesus name, Amen!