How can we remain steadfast when surrounded by "briers and thorns"? Opening verse “And you, son of man, do not be afraid of them or of their words, though briers and thorns are with you and you live among scorpions. Do not be afraid of their words or dismayed by their looks, for they are a rebellious house.” (Ezekiel 2:6) God’s clear directive: Fearless steadfastness • Twice in the same sentence God says, “do not be afraid.” • The command is not based on Ezekiel’s strength but on God’s presence (Joshua 1:9; Isaiah 41:10). • Steadfastness begins with a settled decision to believe God’s word over threatening surroundings. Defining the “briers and thorns” around us • Hostile people who reject God’s truth (Matthew 10:22). • Cultural opposition that scratches and stings every time we speak or live biblically (John 15:19). • Spiritual adversaries seeking to discourage (Ephesians 6:12). Literal or figurative, God names them so that we will not be surprised by their barbs. Five anchors that keep the heart unmoved • Identity in Christ – We are “sealed for the day of redemption” (Ephesians 4:30). – Knowing whose we are turns external hostility into a reminder of eternal security (Romans 8:35-39). • Word-saturated thinking – Colossians 3:16 urges the word to “dwell richly” in us. – Memorized truth shields the mind when accusations fly (Psalm 119:11). • Immediate obedience – Ezekiel is told to speak whether they listen or refuse (Ezekiel 2:7). – Obedience shifts focus from outcomes to faithfulness (1 Corinthians 4:2). • Spirit-empowered resilience – “Be strong in the Lord and in His mighty power” (Ephesians 6:10). – The Spirit supplies boldness greater than intimidation (2 Timothy 1:7; Acts 4:31). • Fellowship with believers – “Encourage one another daily” (Hebrews 3:13). – Shared worship and counsel keep wounds from festering (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). Practical steps for daily perseverance • Start each morning declaring aloud key promises (Psalm 27:1; John 16:33). • Replace negative inner dialogue with Scripture recitation. • Set limits on toxic voices; choose edifying inputs (Philippians 4:8). • Serve someone in Jesus’ name—to turn pain outward into purposeful love (Galatians 6:9-10). • End the day recounting specific ways God upheld you, building a testimony bank (Psalm 77:11-12). Certain hope beyond the thorns “After you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace… will Himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.” (1 Peter 5:10) The thorns are temporary; the promised glory is everlasting (2 Corinthians 4:17). Hold the line with confidence that every prick and scratch is known, measured, and will be eclipsed by Christ’s reward (James 1:12). |
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