Go

O. T. #1853  "Go"

January 5, 2021

Ezekiel 3-Part 2

LET IT GLOW

 What did we learn that Ezekiel's first kingdom assignment was? It was to eat the roll of the Word of God. He was to take it into his belly and let it become a part of him. What an unusual assignment, don't you think? Yet, with Jeremiah, God's Word became a burning fire in his bones, foretold of the coming Messiah; with Daniel, he refused to bow before an idol, being obedient to God's Word, experienced safety in a lion's den as he demonstrated faith in his God; Moses trembled when God spoke to him and we know all the miraculous things God did through him; Peter fell down on his knees realizing what a sinful man he was after denying Jesus, them preached such strong message on the day of Pentecost, resulting in over 3,000 being saved. So many faced giants with confidence in God, such as David.

If you "digest" God's Word, you will find that not only does it make you stronger in your faith, but its wisdom also sweetens your life. You need to feed yourself spiritually just as you do physically. You must make digesting God's Word a regular part of your life. (Life Application Study Bible)

Our God keeps His Word, keeps His promises, and works through His people to accomplish His purposes. Are we taking in God's Word in our heart and life so we can make a difference in our generation and world. It starts right here and right now. Who knows what things God will accomplish when we surrender to do His will and be obedient to His Word? May we be the living Word today for someone. How blessed we will be when we do. The sacrifice of time that we give studying God's Word  pleases Him and strengthens us. May we choose what is better, for it will not be taken away from us.

 

LET IT GROW

 As we read through this chapter, there is a two-letter word that is repeated 6 times. Did you recognize it? It is the word go, which is used in the Hebrew language as 3 different words with similar yet different meanings. (Before he went, Ezekiel was told to let all God's Words sink deep into his own heart first, then listen to them carefully for himself. verse 10)

In verses 1, 4, and 11, go means to walk; to carry; spread. Ezekiel was instructed to carry and speak God's Word to the house of Israel, those in captivity, whether they listened to him or not.  

In verses 22 and 25, the word go refers to break out; bring forth; grow. Ezekiel had to leave (break out) where he was, going forth into a valley (plain) where God was going to speak to him. He was told to not go, bring himself, among the rebellious ones.

In verse 24, go means abide; enter; run. So Ezekiel had to run to his house, enter into it, and shut himself inside it. He was going to be tied with ropes (bands) so he could not go out among the people.

Although there is no recording of physical violence toward this prophet, it is suggested that this meant these were bands of moral restraint, such as the people's rejection of his warning against their sin and impending judgment. (Liberty Bible Commentary)

Ezekiel was to fulfill much of his ministry at home, limiting it to those who came to hear him there. Those rebellious Jews could have a depressing influence upon Ezekiel. Thus, they would repress his freedom in preaching. God put a restraint on Ezekiel through a supernatural power so he could only go and speak where and when God chose. (verses 26, 27)  (The MacArthur Bible Commentary)

God chooses to whom He sends us and the words for us to share. If you are spending a lot of time at home, consider your family as your mission field. There are so many Christian sources available to us through media and books for our encouragement. I appreciate your faithfulness in joining me in studying through the Old Testament. I know it has been a hard thing as we have gone through Isaiah and Jeremiah, then Lamentations. However, we have found some sweet words along the way.

So when God tells us to go, may we be faithful in going and sharing His Word. As believers in Jesus Christ, we have the responsibility to share the good news to sinners so they may be saved and follow God. How can we keep silent when we know people who need to escape the wrath of God?

In Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus commands us to Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost; Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you; and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

LET IT GO

Lord Jesus, bless us, keep us in Your will, make Your face shine upon us. May His favor be upon us to a thousand generations. May His presence go before us and around us as we go.

Use us to share Your love and Word today to those who need it.

May we take joy in our journey with You, Jesus. Help us to make the most of our time here before we go home to be with You forever.