Getting our attention - Ezekiel 18

^{We could easily jump to the conclusion that God is quite mean and nasty, especially when we read through chapter after chapter of the harsh words in Ezekiel. However, it is important to remember the context of Ezekiel's words and the underlying heart of God. In v.32 we see that the Lord makes it clear that his tough words are not intended to harm, but rather to get Israel's attention. God desperately wants them to turn from their evil ways and to come back to him.
 
30} “Therefore, I will judge each of you, O people of Israel, according to your actions, says the Sovereign Lord. Repent, and turn from your sins. Don’t let them destroy you! ³¹ Put all your rebellion behind you, and find yourselves a new heart and a new spirit. For why should you die, O people of Israel? ³² I don’t want you to die, says the Sovereign Lord. Turn back and live!

It always reminds me of how many parents struggle in disciplining their kids. We want the best for our kids, but when we see them making bad decisions or turning down wrong paths, we somehow don't know what to do. Yet, if we left them to their own devices, without offering any correction, I feel that would be an "unloving" thing to do. The Lord sees his reprimand as being a loving call to repentance.

Question: 
What does God usually have to do to get your attention?

Living in Grace
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