The book of Ezekiel is not an easy one; however, as with every book in the Bible, it holds valuable truth for Christians.  I think, particularly in these days of world conflict and national turmoil, this book holds treasures of wisdom for God’s people in a hostile environment.  …and I believe God continues to raise up watchmen (and women) who will speak the truth of His righteous ways into the lives of His people.

God has always had a chosen people to deliver His message of redemption to the world and, although the Jewish people turned their back on God for a time, I believe they still have a special place in His heart; there is, also, much for God’s children these days to learn from the mistakes the Israelites made.  The following is my prayer, based on Ezekiel 2 & 3:

Father, thank you for your Word; thank you for your Holy Spirit who gives light and life to these chapters—fill me I pray, and teach me, with clarity and understanding, the truth encompassed here.

I think Ezekiel’s description of the people of Israel at that time—a nation of rebels who have rebelled against you—describes many people and nations today.  Even within churches, there are those who deny or twist scripture so that they can design their own religions—which allow their personal opinions, perversions, and rebellion.  Rebellion is deep-seated within the hearts of those who will not surrender to your lordship; satan first rebelled against you and many follow in his footsteps!

Forgive me, Lord, for the times I have been dissatisfied with my life, when I have nurtured fear and unbelief in my heart, and responded with a rebellious attitude towards your righteous ways.  Cleanse me of all unrighteousness, I pray; replace rebellion with humility and hope in the goodness of God.  Give me grace always to cooperate with the correction and guidance of your Spirit—fill me afresh today and inspire faithfulness in my life.

Strengthen my heart; strengthen the hearts of all your people to defend your Word and truth.  Give us courage; do not let us be afraid of those who attempt to wound and sting us with their words or actions.  Give us grace to stand firm on the Rock of our salvation.

Thank you for your Word, O God; create hunger in our hearts for it.  Fill us with the sweetness of truth; help your people to assimilate everything you are speaking to us through scripture.

Father, keep my heart tender towards you.  Protect the hearts and minds of my children and their families, also.  Give us grace to hear your words and receive them into our hearts—grant us strength and determination to stand up for your righteous ways; do not let us be shaken by the enemy’s lies and intimidations.  Continue to renew our minds with your Spirit; lift us up and equip us to fulfill the calling and destiny you have for our lives.

Raise up watchmen for your church, O God.  Give your people hearts to live prophetically and speak your truth in love.  Teach us to be faithful to you and the calling you have placed in us.  Give me grace to let the Spirit set me on my feet and guide me in the paths you have for me.

Release the fruits of your Holy Spirit into the lives of Christians and His gifts into your church, so that Jesus will be exalted and proclaimed throughout the earth.  Teach your people to hear you, to respond in obedience and faith, and to speak as you lead.  In Jesus’ name, I pray, amen.