What steps can we take to be receptive to God's messages today? Setting the Scene: Ezekiel 20:2 “Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying,” If God spoke then, He still speaks now. Ezekiel models a heart tuned to receive the divine word—something every believer can cultivate. Step 1: Expect God to Speak • Faith is the doorway (Hebrews 11:6). • Jesus promised, “My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me” (John 10:27). • Ask with confidence: “Speak, LORD, for Your servant is listening” (1 Samuel 3:10). Step 2: Clear the Static of Sin • Ezekiel addressed a people tangled in idolatry (Ezekiel 20:7-8). Unconfessed sin still mutes His voice today. • Pray David’s prayer: “Search me, O God…see if there is any offensive way in me” (Psalm 139:23-24). • Receive cleansing (1 John 1:9). A clean heart hears clearly. Step 3: Open the Book • God’s primary microphone is Scripture (2 Timothy 3:16). • Ezekiel heard the word; we read the same God-breathed word. • Make daily, unhurried reading non-negotiable (Psalm 119:105). Step 4: Slow Down and Listen • Ezekiel often sat silent before speaking (Ezekiel 3:15). • Practice stillness (Psalm 46:10). • Journal thoughts, verses, and impressions. The Spirit illuminates (John 14:26). Step 5: Cultivate Ongoing Communion • Pray “at all times” (Ephesians 6:18). • Keep conversation open—praise, petition, intercession, and quiet listening. • The more we commune, the more we recognize His nudges. Step 6: Obey Immediately • God gave Ezekiel hard instructions; he acted (Ezekiel 12:1-7). • “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only” (James 1:22). • Obedience today positions you for fresh guidance tomorrow. Step 7: Stay in Community • Prophets, priests, and people gathered to hear God’s word together (Nehemiah 8:1-8). • “Let us not neglect meeting together” (Hebrews 10:25). • Wise counsel confirms and clarifies God’s voice (Proverbs 11:14). Step 8: Discern Through the Spirit • “Do not extinguish the Spirit. Test all things; hold fast to what is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:19-21). • The Spirit never contradicts Scripture. • Peace and righteousness mark His leading (James 3:17). Living It Out 1. Begin each day with expectant prayer and Bible reading. 2. Confess sin promptly. 3. Note any Scripture, prompting, or circumstance the Spirit highlights. 4. Confirm through additional Scripture and godly counsel. 5. Act quickly and gratefully. When we follow these steps, the same God who spoke to Ezekiel finds eager, uncluttered hearts ready to receive His word today. |
    |