What practical steps can we take to align with God's will, as shown here? Setting the Scene “Mark out a road, so that the sword can come to Rabbah of the Ammonites and to Judah into fortified Jerusalem.” (Ezekiel 21:20) God instructs Ezekiel to draw a literal map showing two routes for Babylon’s sword of judgment. The prophet’s simple, obedient act illustrates timeless principles for anyone who longs to stay in step with God’s will. Why the Road Matters • God’s plans are concrete, not theoretical. He identifies specific destinations—Rabbah and Jerusalem. • He reveals those plans to His servant in advance (Amos 3:7). • The marked road becomes a visible reminder that every choice leads somewhere, either toward blessing or discipline. Practical Steps to Align with God’s Will 1. Acknowledge God’s Sovereignty • Like Ezekiel, accept that the Lord directs history and personal paths alike (Proverbs 16:9). • Lay down assumptions and let Scripture set the compass. 2. Seek Clear Direction in His Word • Ezekiel listened for precise instructions; we open the pages of Scripture. • “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.” (Psalm 119:105) 3. Make the Road Visible • Ezekiel’s map brought invisible plans into plain sight. • Write down sensed leadings, relevant verses, and practical action points. • Use reminders—calendars, notes, alarms—to keep obedience tangible. 4. Decide at the Crossroads • Babylon would choose one of the two roads; moments of choice come to us as well. • “Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths… walk in it.” (Jeremiah 6:16) • Weigh options in prayerful dependence, not impulsive feeling. 5. Act Quickly and Completely • Ezekiel drew the signposts without delay. • Partial obedience still courts judgment (1 Samuel 15:22-23). • Finish the tasks God assigns—calls, apologies, offerings, service. 6. Cultivate Ongoing Repentance • The road to Jerusalem foretold discipline for unrepentant Judah. • Align daily by confessing sin and turning from it (1 John 1:9). 7. Trust God with Outcomes • Once Ezekiel marked the road, the result lay in God’s hands. • “Trust in the LORD with all your heart… and He will make your paths straight.” (Proverbs 3:5-6) Walking Out Our Alignment Daily • Start each morning with Scripture before screens. • Review any “marked roads” in your journal; ask, “Have I taken the next step?” • Keep short accounts—repent quickly when convicted. • Revisit key promises like Romans 8:28 when uncertainty rises. • Celebrate small victories of obedience; gratitude cements the path. Following the pattern in Ezekiel 21:20, we mark the route, choose the way of obedience, and let the Lord steer the journey. |
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