Ezekiel 15 – short but sweet

This is a short chapter, but it packs a powerful punch.  God simply says that Israel will not escape His wrath.  Too often we foolishly think we can get away with things, but we can’t.  God sees all and knows our hearts.  We need to be honest with God, others, and ourselves.

On another note, I came in second today in a disc golf tournament!  I played in the same tournament last year and did horribly – this year I finished on the top (#2 out of over 60 people!).

I had a thought: maybe I did well because I’ve been investing in God’s Word more!  Do you think God works this way?  Do you think He blesses us when we are obedient to Him?  I’d love to hear your thoughts…

Ezekiel 2-3 – God readies Ezekiel for his ministry

Yesterday I was anxious to hear what God was going to say to Ezekiel.  Today I got to read His words, and they were good.

God is preparing Ezekiel for the ministry he is about to do.  He tells Ezekiel a little bit about the people he’s going to be speaking to – they are Israelite exiles that are rebellious and hard-hearted to God.

God clearly knows this is going to be difficult for Ezekiel, so He gives Ezekiel what he’s going to need.  God makes him just as unyielding and hardened as they are, He encourages Ezekiel that his only job is to get God’s word out, He keeps Ezekiel from saying anything but God’s words, and He shows Ezekiel His glory again.

I was struck by two things – how well God prepares Ezekiel for ministry and how obedient Ezekiel is to God’s call on his life.  Whenever God asks Ezekiel to do something, Ezekiel follows, and he is always blessed by being obedient.

I’ve tried to be in tune to God’s call and direction for my life, but I have a hard time listening on a daily basis.  I know that I will be blessed if I’m obedient – I’ve already been blessed by being obedient and reading His word.  But often I’m not obedient in other areas.  I need to be.  I want to be blessed.  Don’t you?