September 2 (Daily reading: Ezekiel 21-22) “I searched for a man among them who would build up the wall and stand in the gap before Me for the land, so that I would not destroy it; but I found no one” (22:30). This verse shows God’s heart even as He pronounced judgment on His people. It highlights some truths for the people of God of any time.
1st, God SEARCHED for a man. His judgment and love are balanced. It is not one or the other, but always “both, and.” We read yesterday of God’s love: “(I brought) them out from the land of Egypt into a land that I had selected for them, flowing with milk and honey” (20:6). We also read three times in that chapter that the people rebelled against God. God by His very nature must judge sin, but because of His nature of love, He always seeks to forgive.
2nd, God searched for A MAN. His call is to every individual. Our feelings about the overwhelming evil in our world is often, “But what can I do?” God said, “I searched for a man who would STAND IN THE GAP BEFORE ME.” Their walls had gaping holes because of infidelity; someone needed to build them up, and stand for the truth, but God found no one! Remember the word that came to King Asa: “The eyes of the LORD range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to him” (1 Ch. 16:9, NIV).
3rd, God said, “SO THAT I WOULD NOT DESTROY IT.” A key word that accompanies love and judgment is grace. I am reminded of the dialogue between God and Abraham. God agreed to spare Sodom if only ten righteous people could be found there. God is always seeking to save! “The Lord is…patient toward you, not wishing for any to perish but for all to come to repentance” (2 Pet. 3:9).
– Al Gary
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