“Like the appearance of the bow that is in the cloud on the day of rain, so was the appearance of the brightness all around. Such was the appearance of the likeness of the glory of the Lord. When I saw it, I fell on my face, and I heard the voice of one speaking.
“He said to me, ‘Son of man, stand on your feet, and I will speak with you.’ As he spoke, the Spirit entered into me and set me on my feet, and I heard him speaking. He said to me, ‘Son of man, I send you to the people of Israel, to nations of rebels, who have rebelled against me. They and their fathers have transgressed against me to this very day. The descendants also are impudent and stubborn: I send you to them, and you shall say to them, “Thus says the Lord God.” And whether they hear or refuse to hear… they will know that a prophet has been among them… Be not afraid of them, nor of their words,.. nor be dismayed at their looks, for they are a rebellious house. You shall speak my words to them, whether they hear or refuse to hear…
“’Hear what I say to you. Be not rebellious like that rebellious house; open your mouth and eat what I give you.’ And when I looked, a hand was stretched out to me, and a scroll of a book was in it… It had… words of lamentation and mourning and woe.
“And he said to me, ‘Son of man, eat… this scroll, and go, speak to the house of Israel.’ So I opened my mouth, and he gave me this scroll to eat… It was in my mouth as sweet as honey.
“And he said, ‘Son of man, go to the house of Israel and speak with my words to them.'” Ezekiel 1:28-3:4
God’s call to Ezekiel set straight for whom the prophet was to speak. Sent to the people of Israel to announce God’s judgment was a task to be taken for God’s sake, not personal satisfaction or hoped-for, grand results. Dare Ezekiel think his power or finesse would convince the people of its verity, or convict them of their impudence, God warned him that they were a stubborn, rebellious house. He should not fear nor be shaken, simply faithful to the command before His glory.
It is natural to want our work to be effective, our efforts to make a difference wherever they are applied. The Lord often gives us assignments meant to accomplish measurable results. We thrive at working and serving in and among people and want to experience the reward.
But sometimes, His call is issued with unseen ends, and His work goes forth under the glorious arc of His authority yet without visible or positive response. It is vital that in everything we serve the Lord Christ alone. When the faithful One calls, He expects faithfulness in return,. We must trust Him with the results. (Ephesians 6:6-7; Colossians 3:23-24; 1 Thessalonians 5:24)
What ministry or workplace has the Lord assigned that challenges our patience or fortitude? Are we easily discouraged at witnessing to those unwilling to listen or cooperate? How can we redirect our obedience for Christ’s sake? As long as we answer to our gracious Lord, we’ll know freedom and joy.
Lord, may I faithfully speak Your sweet word as unto You.
