What lessons can we learn about God's expectations from Ezekiel 15:1? Hearing the Word of the Lord “Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying,” (Ezekiel 15:1) • God still speaks—His voice breaks into human history uninvited, uncontrived, utterly sovereign. • He expects His people to recognize that voice (John 10:27). • Divine revelation is not occasional background noise; it is the priority soundtrack of a believer’s life (Hebrews 1:1-2). God Speaks Intentionally • No words are wasted. God never speaks merely to fill silence (Isaiah 55:10-11). • Every prophetic utterance has a purpose—whether warning, comfort, or instruction. • He expects us to treat each word as purposeful and binding (Psalm 19:7-9). Expecting Immediate Obedience • The verb “came” pictures divine initiative; Ezekiel’s only appropriate response is readiness. • God consistently links revelation to obedience (Deuteronomy 30:14). • Delayed or partial compliance redefines God’s authority on our terms, something Scripture never permits (James 1:22). Valuing the Messenger and the Message • Ezekiel stands as proof that God appoints human messengers, but the authority remains God’s (2 Peter 1:21). • Despising the messenger is tantamount to despising the Sender (Luke 10:16). • God expects honor for His Word regardless of the vessel delivering it (1 Thessalonians 2:13). Responding with Humility and Vigilance • A humble heart welcomes divine interruption (Isaiah 66:2). • Vigilance safeguards against spiritual dullness; God’s Word is addressed to attentive disciples, not casual listeners (Mark 4:24). • Reverence keeps us from filtering His commands through personal preference. Living the Lesson Today • Cultivate a daily rhythm of Scripture saturation so you recognize His voice. • Approach every passage as a personal summons, not mere information. • Act promptly on what you read; obedience confirms that you have truly heard (John 14:23). |