How can we apply Ezekiel 22:1 to our personal spiritual accountability? Verse at a Glance “Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying,” (Ezekiel 22:1) What the Verse Reveals About Spiritual Accountability - God speaks first; we are responsible to listen. - His word confronts sin before it comforts sinners. - Accountability begins the moment the word “comes” to us—ignoring it does not cancel the obligation. Taking the Word Personally: Key Principles • The initiative is God’s, but the response is ours. • Scripture is never a mere information dump; it is a summons (Hebrews 4:12-13). • Each new exposure to God’s word enlarges our stewardship (Luke 12:48). • Silence after hearing is still a response—one for which we must give account. Practical Ways to Let the Word Come to You Daily 1. Schedule unhurried reading time; treat it as an appointment, not an add-on (Matthew 4:4). 2. Journal immediate convictions—capture the “fresh word” while it is still warm (James 1:22-25). 3. Turn exposure into obedience within 24 hours; act quickly on one clear application so the message does not evaporate. 4. Invite a trusted believer to ask how you obeyed; shared follow-up cements accountability (Proverbs 27:17). 5. Memorize one verse a week related to current struggles (Psalm 119:11). Warning Signs That Accountability Is Slipping - Hearing many sermons yet changing no habits. - Frequent “I’ll pray about it” delays with no action. - Selective listening—highlighting the reassuring parts while skipping the convicting ones. - Dismissing Scripture as “for someone else” instead of “the word of the LORD came to me.” Promises for Those Who Respond • Scripture equips for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16-17). • Obedience brings blessing in what we do (James 1:25). • The Son’s truth sets us free from the cycle of unconfessed sin (John 8:31-32). When the word of the LORD comes, personal spiritual accountability begins. Hear it, heed it, and let it reshape every corner of life. |
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