How can we apply Ezekiel's obedience to God's commands in our lives? The Moment of Obedient Speech “On that day your mouth will be opened so that you will speak with him; you will no longer be silent. So you will be a sign to them, and they will know that I am the LORD.” (Ezekiel 24:27) Ezekiel’s Model of Obedience • Waiting: He accepted the God-imposed silence until the exact moment the Lord said “Speak.” • Accuracy: When the silence lifted, he relayed God’s words without editing or softening them. • Visibility: His life itself—speech, silence, even personal grief—became a living illustration of God’s message. Living Out Similar Obedience Today • Submit to God’s timetable – Resist the urge to force opportunities; trust the Spirit to open doors at the right moment (Acts 16:6-10). • Speak truth plainly – Share Scripture as written, confident it is already powerful (Hebrews 4:12). • Let life match words – Align behavior so people “know that I am the LORD” by what they see in you (Matthew 5:16). • Accept the role of “sign” – Understand that faithfulness may draw curiosity or opposition, yet both point observers to God (1 Peter 2:12). Scriptural Connections: A Consistent Call • Ezekiel 3:17-19 – The watchman must warn when God speaks. • James 1:22 – “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” • John 14:15 – “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” • 2 Corinthians 5:20 – “We are ambassadors for Christ.” Practical Steps for the Week 1. Begin each morning reading a chapter of Scripture aloud, training your ear to God’s voice. 2. Keep a short journal noting any promptings to speak or to stay silent; review at week’s end to see God’s timing. 3. Memorize one verse you will need if God opens a door for witness. 4. Perform one quiet act of obedience known only to God, reminding yourself that visibility is His choice, not yours. 5. Rehearse the gospel in concise form so you are ready when the silence lifts. Encouragement: The Promise Behind Obedience • 1 Samuel 15:22 – “To obey is better than sacrifice.” • Luke 11:28 – “Blessed are those who hear the word of God and keep it.” God never calls to obedience without also supplying grace, timing, and a purpose that makes His name unmistakable. |
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