How can we prepare ourselves to receive God's word like Ezekiel did? Setting the Scene - “So I opened my mouth, and He fed me the scroll.” (Ezekiel 3:2) - A literal act: Ezekiel physically ate a scroll, showing total submission to the God-breathed word. - The same God still speaks with complete accuracy and authority; His people still need prepared hearts. Cultivating Holy Hunger - A prepared heart starts with desire. • “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness.” (Matthew 5:6) • “Like newborns, crave pure spiritual milk.” (1 Peter 2:2) - Practical steps: • Fast from distractions that dull spiritual appetite. • Read testimonies of past saints to stir longing. • Ask the Spirit to deepen thirst; He delights to answer. Opening Without Reservation - Ezekiel’s mouth was wide-open; there was no holding back. - Humility clears the way: “Humbly accept the word planted in you, which can save.” (James 1:21) - Lay down preconceived notions, pet doctrines, and personal preferences before opening the Bible. Letting God Do the Feeding - God placed the scroll in Ezekiel’s mouth; reception is a work of grace. - Approach Scripture prayerfully, expecting the Author to illuminate: “Open my eyes to see the wonders of Your law.” (Psalm 119:18) - Read slowly, listening for the Spirit’s promptings rather than rushing to finish a plan. Chewing Thoroughly - The prophet didn’t spit the scroll out; he digested it. • Meditate: “Meditate on it day and night.” (Joshua 1:8) • Journal insights, memorize key lines, ponder them during ordinary tasks. - God’s word is alive: “The word of God is living and active.” (Hebrews 4:12) • Expect conviction, comfort, correction, and direction as you mull over each phrase. Living What You’ve Swallowed - Ingested truth produces visible obedience. - Ezekiel immediately carried God’s message to a stubborn people; so must we. • Speak the word graciously to family, coworkers, neighbors. • Shape decisions, entertainment choices, and spending around revealed truth. - Jeremiah’s testimony echoes: “Your words were found, and I ate them.” (Jeremiah 15:16). They became joy and fuel for faithful action. Staying Hungry - Fresh bread is needed daily; yesterday’s meal will not sustain today’s call. - Keep a regular rhythm: read, meditate, obey, share, repeat. - The more we taste, the more we crave; God’s limitless storehouse never fails those who come open-mouthed. |
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