How does Ezekiel 3:1 encourage us to prioritize Scripture in our lives? Inviting Us to the Table of God’s Word “Son of man, eat what you find here; eat this scroll, and go, speak to the house of Israel.” (Ezekiel 3:1) Why “Eat” the Scroll? • Food strengthens; Scripture strengthens the soul. • Eating is personal and internal—soaking in the Word moves truth from the page to the heart. • God commands the prophet to consume before he communicates, underscoring that ministry flows out of personal engagement with Scripture. A Two-Step Pattern for Every Believer 1. Eat—take in the Word regularly, deeply, intentionally. 2. Go, speak—share truth that has first shaped you. Other Scriptures Echo the Same Call • Jeremiah 15:16—“Your words were found and I ate them...” • Psalm 1:2—delight and meditate “day and night.” • Matthew 4:4—“Man shall not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God.” • Colossians 3:16—“Let the word of Christ richly dwell within you.” • 2 Timothy 3:16-17—the Word equips “for every good work.” Practical Ways to “Eat the Scroll” Today • Schedule a daily, unhurried reading slot—treat it like a meal you never skip. • Read aloud; hearing reinforces understanding. • Keep a journal of insights and applications. • Memorize short passages; review them while driving or waiting in line. • Meditate: ask what the text reveals about God’s character and your response. • Listen to an audio Bible during routines to “snack” on Scripture through the day. • Engage family or friends in shared reading plans for mutual encouragement. Signs You’re Truly Feeding, Not Just Sampling • Growing love for God and His ways (Psalm 119:97). • Quicker recognition of error because truth is familiar (Acts 17:11). • Words of grace and wisdom flow naturally in conversation (Luke 6:45). • Steadier peace amid trials—anchored hearts don’t drift (Isaiah 26:3). • Desire to obey outweighs mere curiosity (James 1:22-25). Putting It All Together Ezekiel 3:1 moves Scripture from a bookshelf to the dinner table of daily life. The command to “eat” shows that the Word is meant to be ingested, enjoyed, and lived, not merely observed. As we prioritize Scripture—making it our staple diet—we gain strength to “go” and speak God’s truth with authenticity and power. |