Sunday, February 16 – Ezekiel 2, 3

1. How does God’s command to Ezekiel to speak fearlessly challenge us in sharing our faith? (Ezekiel 2:1-7)

2. What does eating the scroll teach about the joy of internalizing God’s Word? How does this prepare us for ministry? (Ezekiel 2:8–3:3)

3. What does it mean to be a spiritual watchman in today’s world? How can we fulfill this calling? (Ezekiel 3:16-21)

Here are the key themes in today’s reading:

1. The Call to Speak God’s Words (Ezekiel 2:1-7): God calls Ezekiel to be His prophet, sending him to a rebellious people. Despite their defiance, Ezekiel is commanded to speak God’s words without fear. This passage reminds us that God empowers His messengers to deliver His truth, regardless of opposition. Ellen White writes, “The Lord calls for men of fidelity and moral courage to be His mouthpiece to the people” (Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 5, p. 136).

2. Eating the Scroll: Internalizing God’s Message (Ezekiel 2:8–3:3): Ezekiel is instructed to eat a scroll containing God’s words. As he eats, he finds the scroll as sweet as honey, symbolizing the delight and satisfaction of embracing God’s Word. This sweetness reflects the joy of knowing and accepting God’s truth, even as the message contains serious warnings. “The sweetness of communion with God outweighs all the difficulties of proclaiming His message” (Ellen G. White, Steps to Christ, p. 89).

3. The Role of a Watchman (Ezekiel 3:16-21): God appoints Ezekiel as a watchman for Israel, tasked with warning the people of their sins. This role comes with great responsibility; if Ezekiel fails to deliver the warning, he is held accountable. The calling of a watchman reminds us of the urgency and importance of proclaiming God’s truth. Ellen White states, “The work of the watchmen is not to please, entertain, or applaud men, but to save souls” (Gospel Workers, p. 15).

Ezekiel 2 paints a vivid picture of a reluctant yet faithful servant of God. Ezekiel is sent to a rebellious and obstinate people, but God assures him, “Do not be afraid” (Ezekiel 2:6). This encouragement underscores a critical lesson for believers: when God calls us to speak His truth, His power equips us to overcome fear and resistance.

The act of eating the scroll (Ezekiel 3:1-3) holds profound symbolism. As Ezekiel consumes God’s message, he finds it sweet as honey, illustrating the joy and satisfaction that come from fully embracing and internalizing God’s Word. This sweetness serves as a reminder that even challenging messages from God bring spiritual nourishment and strength. “Your words were found, and I ate them, and Your word was to me the joy and rejoicing of my heart” (Jeremiah 15:16). As believers, we are called to delight in God’s Word and allow it to transform us before we share it with others.

Ezekiel’s commission as a watchman (Ezekiel 3:16-21) highlights the seriousness of spiritual leadership. A watchman must remain vigilant and warn others of impending danger. This responsibility extends to all believers, as we are entrusted with the message of salvation and called to share it with urgency. When we hesitate to share God’s truth, we risk neglecting those needing His guidance. Ellen White reminds us, “We are not to shut ourselves up to meditate and enjoy religion for ourselves alone, but to impart the knowledge of God to others” (The Desire of Ages, p. 142).

My Prayer for Today: May God grant us the courage to speak His truth boldly, the joy to internalize His Word deeply, and the faithfulness to serve as watchmen for a world in need of His light. May our lives reflect His message, drawing others closer to His grace and love. Amen.