When the Lord brought judgment on Jerusalem for all her sins, the leaders, called “princes of Israel”, were most to blame. They had responsibility to the people they governed, but they only used their position for selfish gain. As a result, Jerusalem became a city where innocent people’s blood was shed (6-7). The princes became wealthy by extorting money from their neighbors and the poor (12). God’s wrath on the city would be so intense, the city would be like a furnace (17-22). The priests were corrupt as well. They neglected their duty to teach the people about God’s holiness (26) and instead covered up the sins of the officials to gain benefits for themselves (28).

What is a servant of God supposed to do so that their people will be blessed instead of judged? The Lord said he was looking for someone to “stand in the gap” on behalf of the land. It means to hold firmly to the truth, even though it is costly to do so, and to intercede for others. Our example is Jesus. On the cross, Jesus fully bridged the gap between us and God. In turn, when we stand in the gap by teaching the word of God and intercessory prayer, we can help our nation be blessed instead of judged.
Application: Father, thank you that Jesus stood in the gap to cover all our sins. Help me do the same for others and for my nation.
One Word: Stand in the gap