Today's Passage:  Ezekiel 1-2

I would imagine that something like the scene described here in Ezekiel 1 would get anyone's attention!  Wouldn't you listen to the voice of God after seeing this giant windstorm with four heavenly beings..and then seeing the glory of the Lord?  We know from Moses' experience that the glory of God is so intense that we just can't handle it in our human form, and Ezekiel is no exception.  He drops to the ground and lowers his face as the perfection of God is too much to bear.  Then, in the middle of all of this, the Lord speaks to him.

From our time in Jeremiah, we know that the Israelites were a rebellious people, just as they are described here.  We know that they are prone to ignore the warnings of God, even when He gives them multiple opportunities to be obedient.  It seems from the words of the Lord that He is fully expecting them to rebel or act in fear...even with hostility toward Ezekiel.  But the words for Ezekiel personally leave no room to ignore Him:  "But you, son of man, listen to what I say to you."

Often we let other people dictate our obedience.  We think that because others will not listen, we are removed from the call to speak.  But God makes it very clear that obedience is a personal issue...Ezekiel will have a choice to make.  He can either obey God no matter what, or he can side with those who will oppose the Lord Almighty.

Are you letting others dictate your obedience?  Our trust in God is an individual decision....let's all make the right one today!