In what ways does Ezekiel 1:28 inspire reverence and awe in our lives? Setting the Scene Ezekiel is in exile by the Chebar Canal when the heavens open and he literally sees “the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the LORD” (Ezekiel 1:28). The vision is not poetic imagination; it is a historical, Spirit-given glimpse of the Lord’s actual glory. Key Phrases in Ezekiel 1:28 • “Like the appearance of a rainbow … so was the radiance” – echoes Genesis 9:13-16, underscoring God’s enduring covenant mercy. • “The glory of the LORD” – the blazing, tangible majesty that filled the tabernacle (Exodus 40:34-35) and later the temple (1 Kings 8:10-11). • “I fell facedown” – the only fitting human response when holiness confronts us (cf. Isaiah 6:5; Revelation 1:17). Reasons the Verse Stirs Reverence and Awe • God’s Holiness Revealed – His glory is radiant, overwhelming, and morally perfect (Habakkuk 3:4). – Recognizing that same holy presence still sees and judges today (Hebrews 4:13) moves us to godly fear (Hebrews 12:28-29). • Covenant Faithfulness on Display – The rainbow signals that the Judge is also the faithful Promise-Keeper. – Awe grows when we grasp that the God who disciplines also steadfastly loves (Lamentations 3:22-23). • Human Smallness Recognized – Ezekiel’s face-down posture models the humility we owe our Creator (Psalm 8:3-4). – Reverence flows from remembering we are dust addressed by glorious Majesty. • Call to Worship – The vision is an invitation to join heaven’s ceaseless praise (Revelation 4:3, 8-11). – Regular, heartfelt worship keeps awe fresh and pride dethroned. • Motivation for Obedience – Ezekiel’s commission follows his reverent fall (Ezekiel 2:1-3). Encountering glory equips us to obey even in hostile settings (John 14:21). Practical Ways to Walk in Awe Today • Begin each day acknowledging God’s glory before presenting personal needs. • Read passages that unveil His majesty (Isaiah 6; Revelation 4-5) to recalibrate your heart. • Celebrate the rainbow as you see it—thanking God aloud for His mercy and promises. • Approach gathered worship expecting to meet the same glorious Lord Ezekiel saw. • Let reverence shape speech, entertainment choices, and relationships, remembering you live before the “King of glory” (Psalm 24:7-10). Looking Forward Ezekiel’s glimpse anticipates the fuller revelation believers have in Christ, “the radiance of God’s glory” (Hebrews 1:3). One day we will see that glory unveiled and, like Ezekiel, respond in worship that never ends (2 Corinthians 3:18; 1 John 3:2). |
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