What can we learn from Ezekiel's response to the people's question in 24:19? Setting the scene Ezekiel has just lost “the delight of [his] eyes” (his wife) and, by command of the LORD, refuses every customary sign of grief (Ezekiel 24:15-18). That jarring obedience provokes the onlookers: “Then the people asked me, ‘Won’t you tell us what these things you are doing mean for us?’ ” (Ezekiel 24:19) Ezekiel’s explanation “ ‘The word of the LORD came to me: Say to the house of Israel: This is what the Lord GOD says: “I am about to desecrate My sanctuary—the pride of your power, the delight of your eyes, and the desire of your soul. The sons and daughters you left behind will fall by the sword. Then you will do as I have done: You will not cover your mustache or eat the bread of mourning. You will keep your turbans on your heads and your sandals on your feet; you will not lament or weep… And you will know that I am the LORD GOD.” ’ ” (Ezekiel 24:20-24, selections) What stands out in his response • Immediate obedience—no hesitation or self-defense • Crystal-clear attribution: “the word of the LORD came to me” (v. 20) • Plain talk: no evasive symbolism once asked; he spells it out • Emphasis on God’s purpose—“you will know that I am the LORD GOD” (v. 24) Truths we can draw • God may use a servant’s personal pain as a living message (cf. Hosea 1:2-9; 2 Corinthians 4:10-11) • Obedience sometimes means relinquishing even legitimate comforts like public mourning (Luke 14:26-27) • Prophetic authority rests on divine revelation, not personal insight—Ezekiel speaks only what he has received (Jeremiah 1:7) • Judgment on sin is certain and specific; God names the very object of their pride—“My sanctuary… the delight of your eyes” (Ezekiel 24:21) • The goal is always relational: judgment is designed to bring people to the knowledge of the LORD (Ezekiel 24:24; Hebrews 12:10-11) Practical takeaways —When life hurts, pause to ask what God might be communicating rather than rushing to self-pity. —Be ready to give a faithful, Scripture-anchored explanation when people inquire about our actions (1 Peter 3:15). —Hold God’s gifts loosely; even the “delight of your eyes” can be withdrawn for His higher purposes (Job 1:21). —Let obedience speak louder than words; consistent faithfulness gives credibility to any verbal witness. —Remember that every divine discipline aims at deeper awareness of who the LORD is—holy, just, and ultimately redemptive. Wrapping it up Ezekiel’s unflinching response models a life where devotion to God eclipses personal loss, clear truth replaces vague symbolism, and the ultimate aim is that all “will know that I am the LORD.” |
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