SWHW Bible Reading Plan: August 2021Sample

Top Takeaway from Sarah Martin:

Although it’s important to get in the weeds in Ezekiel and dig into the sin/idolatry of Israel, the impending captivity as a consequence, the wrath of God, and His loving mercy upon them, I think it’s also important to look at who was carrying this prophecy in this very heavy book of the Old Testament.

As I read chapter 22, I noted over and over again, “And the word of the Lord came to me…” Yes, it was the role of the prophet to seek God’s face and live an intimate life with God Himself so that he was then entrusted with God’s words and warnings to take to beloved Israel. But, I don’t think that the mandate to carry God’s Word stops with Old Testament prophets. Nope. You and I have the privilege to hear God’s voice, too.

I can’t help but wonder if the Lord entrusted Ezekiel with these heavy warnings and hope-filled declarations because…well..he could be trusted. Ezekiel valued God’s voice over fear, uncertainty, culture’s climate, and unprecedented worldly shifts. 

Kind of reminds me of the parable in Luke 16 where Jesus talks about those who are entrusted and faithful with little will be given more. Those who value God Himself and His Word will be trusted with a deeper revelation of Who He is and how He is moving in our day.

And through much prayer and humility, through discipline and guided by the Holy Spirit, the Bible is our first avenue to hear God’s voice. Might I offer three things you can do today to be counted as faithful and hear His voice? 

Just show up. Even when you don’t feel like it. The Bible is alive and active even when we feel blah and complacent. 

Listen and obey. Jesus said that whoever holds His commands and listens, are the ones who love Him. They are the ones who will see God move and experience His love. (John 14:21) 

Just show up again. It takes time, study, humility, and still more time to read God's Word, hear His voice, and be a good steward as well. It’s a journey worth the sacrifice and diligence!

Lord, I thank You that You speak through Your Holy Word by the power of Your Holy Spirit. Give me a desire and hunger to read Your Word and hear Your voice so it drowns out the noise of the world. Amen!