God does not take delight in the death of the wicked nor does He desire revenge and punishment. Instead, God wants all men to repent and be saved (1 Timothy 2:3-4). This is what He himself said:

“Do you think that I like to see wicked people die?” says the Sovereign LORD. “Of course not! I want them to turn from their wicked ways and live.”

Ezekiel 18:23

In God’s heart, the sweetest act of mercy toward the wicked is to offer His Son for their sins. The sweetest act of justice is for the wicked to become righteous. Jesus came to take back the souls that his enemy has stolen and He accomplished that victory on the cross!

Acting on behalf of His Father, Jesus was moved with compassion whenever he encountered people who were sick, lost, hungry, or afflicted. And He acted on this by praying for them, healing them, feeding them, saving them.

As Jesus-followers, we are called to become like Him. To be so moved with compassion that we stand in the gap and pray for people to be saved. We do not curse a city, a person, an organization or even a politician. Instead, we take on and identify with the sins of the people we pray for, in the cities we live in. We humble ourselves, seek God’s face and turn from our wicked ways. God promises that He will forgive our sins and heal the land!

This is the secret to saving sin-filled cities.

Reflect on This:
As we prepare to celebrate Jesus’ death and resurrection this Easter, will you stand in the gap? Will you pray for our cities and our people? After all, someone prayed for mercy on your behalf, and God was moved with compassion to save you.  Will you pray for others the same way?

Take This To Heart:
“Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.” (2 Chronicles 7:14)