How can Ezekiel 3:27 guide us in discerning when to speak or remain silent? Setting the Scene Ezekiel has been appointed a watchman (Ezekiel 3:17). The prophet is to warn God’s people, yet his mouth is divinely restrained until the Lord signals him to speak (Ezekiel 3:26–27). Verse 27 frames every word he utters as God-initiated: “But when I speak with you, I will open your mouth, and you shall say to them, ‘This is what the Lord GOD says.’ Whoever listens, let him listen; and whoever refuses, let him refuse, for they are a rebellious house.” Key Observations • Speech is God-authorized: “I will open your mouth.” • Content is God-given: “This is what the Lord GOD says.” • Responsibility ends at delivery: “Whoever listens, let him listen.” • Silence is purposeful until God prompts: the closed mouth of verse 26 highlights the open mouth of verse 27. Principles for Discerning When to Speak • Wait for God’s prompting. – Psalm 25:5 “Lead me in Your truth… for You are the God of my salvation.” – James 1:19 “Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak.” • Speak only what aligns with Scripture. – 2 Timothy 3:16 “All Scripture is God-breathed.” – Colossians 3:16 “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly.” • Accept varied responses. – Acts 28:24 “Some were convinced… others disbelieved.” – Our duty: faithfulness, not outcomes. • Silence can be obedience. – Ecclesiastes 3:7 “A time to keep silent, and a time to speak.” – Proverbs 17:28 “Even a fool is considered wise when he holds his peace.” Signs the Lord Is Opening Your Mouth • The message is anchored in clear biblical truth, not impulse. • A burden for God’s honor outweighs concern for personal reputation (Jeremiah 20:9). • Inner restraint lifts; words come with noticeable clarity and conviction (Matthew 10:19-20). • Counsel from mature believers confirms the timing (Proverbs 11:14). When Silence Speaks Louder • If motives are mixed with pride or anger (Proverbs 29:11). • When more listening is needed to understand (Proverbs 18:13). • If the audience is unreceptive and further words would harden hearts (Matthew 7:6). • During seasons God designates for reflection and prayer (Luke 5:16). Practices That Keep Us Aligned • Daily Scripture intake—fills the reservoir from which God can draw words. • Ongoing prayer—asks the Spirit to guard our lips (Psalm 141:3). • Accountability—trusted believers help discern timing and tone (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Submission—yielding both speech and silence to the Lord’s direction (Romans 12:1). Walking It Out Today • Begin each day committing your tongue to God’s control. • Pause before speaking: “Lord, is my mouth opened by You right now?” • When prompted, speak Scripture-shaped truth plainly and lovingly, resting in God for the results. • When unprompted, remain content in purposeful silence, confident He speaks even through restraint. |
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