September 2, 2016: SOAP #2465:  Ezekiel 17-19; Revelation 7

Scripture:  Ezekiel (NIV) 18:21 “But if a wicked man turns away from all the sins he has committed and keeps all my decrees and does what is just and right, he will surely live; he will not die. 22 None of the offences he has committed will be remembered against him. Because of the righteous things he has done, he will live.  23 Do I take any pleasure in the death of the wicked? declares the Sovereign LORD. Rather, am I not pleased when they turn from their ways and live?

Observation:   Passages that reveal what pleases God are always worth a second glance.  What brings God pleasure?   Psalm 116:15 tells us “Precious in the sight of the LORD is the death of His faithful servants.”  They enter into heaven to spend eternity with Him.  For this they were created!   Their presence in heaven brings Him great joy!   However, the verse above shows us that He takes no such pleasure in the death of the wicked.  Their eternal home will be a place of torment and regret!   In that He can take no pleasure.

Application:    The more I know Him, the more I want to know about Him.  I want to know His likes and dislikes.   No wonder heaven rejoices when someone repents and sets their life to follow Him!  (Luke 15:7) That should be my goal, helping many turn to Him!

Prayer:    Holy Spirit, help me join in doing what brings the Heavenly Father much joy.   Amen

Pastor Leon
Making friends for time and eternity!