How should we respond when God calls us to deliver a difficult message? Hearing the Word of the LORD • Ezekiel 6:1: “Then the word of the LORD came to me, saying,” • The statement is literal; God truly addresses His servant. • A difficult assignment begins with attentive listening. – Quiet the distractions. – Open the Bible expecting instructions that carry absolute authority. Embracing the Assignment Immediately • Ezekiel never hesitated; the mandate itself compelled action (see Ezekiel 2:2). • Jeremiah 1:7-8 underscores the same urgency: “To everyone I send you, you must go… Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you.” • Practical response: – Say yes before weighing popularity. – Schedule obedience; don’t delay hard conversations. Fearing God Above People • Galatians 1:10: “Am I now seeking the approval of men, or of God?” • Ezekiel 2:7: “Speak My words to them, whether they listen or refuse to listen.” • Action steps: – Measure success by faithfulness, not applause. – Pray for reverent fear of God to eclipse human intimidation. Delivering the Message with Exact Faithfulness • Acts 20:26-27: “I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole will of God.” • 1 Thessalonians 2:4: “We speak as those approved by God… not to please men but God.” • Guidelines: – Quote Scripture accurately. – Refuse to soften, twist, or add personal spin. – Let the text set the tone—warning, comfort, or both. Speaking Truth in Love • Ephesians 4:15: “Speaking the truth in love.” • Ezekiel wept over the judgment he announced (Ezekiel 9:8). • Practical balance: – Brokenhearted tone, not harshness. – Show listeners that the same truth confronts and rescues. Depending on the Spirit for Courage and Clarity • Zechariah 4:6: “‘Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,’ says the LORD of Hosts.” • 2 Timothy 4:2: “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season.” • Habits that strengthen dependence: – Regular prayer for filling and boldness. – Memorize key verses before speaking. – Trust the Spirit to apply the message to hearts. Leaving the Results with God • Our role: obedience; God’s role: outcomes. • Ezekiel’s audience largely rejected him, yet heaven recorded his faithfulness (Ezekiel 3:19). • Healthy mindset: – Rest when the task is completed. – Continue loving people irrespective of their response. |
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