Sweet and Sour Prophecy

Scripture

• Ezekiel 25 - 28
• Revelation 10

Observations
I reckon that being able to condemn the enemies of Judah on God's behalf would, initially, have been most satisfying for Ezekiel. I know if God gave me a licence to go around telling all the people that have hurt or disappointed me that they are going to be well and truly punished, that would be all kinds of fun to start with. Revenge is a powerful motivator. And yet, I think that the novelty would very quickly fade, particularly as I became aware of the actual punishment being meted out - eternal damnation; separation from God; complete and utter destruction.

I think maybe this is what John experiences in Revelation 10. Judgement is being announced, and the end of the world has come. John is told that he "must prophesy again about man peoples, nations, languages and kings" (v.11). I believe that this prophecy is the 'little scroll' that John is given to eat. Initially, prophesying judgement will seem "as sweet as honey". Eventually, however, it will turn his stomach sour.

Application
Speaking God's word; being Christ's representative; "binding and loosing" here on earth; - all of these things have consequences. I need to recognise the consequences, and have a heart of compassion rather than of revenge, malice or anything like that.

Prayer
God, grant me your tenderness of heart for the lost, for the condemned, for those under your judgement. Help me to understand the tragedy of even one lost.