Day 242

Ezekiel 34:1-36:38.  “Forgiveness”

         Forgiveness is a really curious thing.  All this week we have been thinking about consequences in life.  Now, forgiveness is like the exact opposite of consequences.  When we are forgiven, the one who forgives decides not to bring about potential consequences against us.  For example, some insurance companies offer what is called accident forgiveness.  It used to be a guarantee that your rates would go up if you were in an accident, but if you have accident forgiveness, you don’t have to face that consequence.
         While Israel did endure consequences and discipline from the Lord for their actions, they did eventually experience restoration.  The restoration was based on God’s sovereign decision to forgive and to bless His people on account of His covenant faithfulness. It wasn’t as if their consequences had changed because they had changed.
         In the same way, we can experience forgiveness for our sins because of Jesus’ atoning death on the cross.  Because of God’s sovereign decision to forgive and extend grace, we are freed from the guilt and consequences associated with our sin.

General Questions for each day:
Summarize the day’s Bible passage in your own words.
What thoughts, actions, attitudes or beliefs are addressed in the passage?
How is the Holy Spirit leading you to apply this passage to your life today?