Ezekiel’s call and the task given to him can be understood from the first three chapters of the book. He was called to be a spokesman for God to a rebellious and stubborn people who had forsaken God and His ways and were suffering the consequences of their disobedience. Our reading is a vision Ezekiel sees that gives a glimpse of the nature of the One who calls Him into the immense task of taking God’s word to His people.

We are able to get a glimpse into the One who called Ezekiel into His service, who still calls many even to this day to the varied tasks in His Kingdom. 

GOD the Creator: The vision of the 4 living creatures point to God’s creation. The number, “4” represents completeness as in four corners of the earth; each creature is symbolic: man- God’s ordained ruler of creation; lion -the strongest of wild beasts; ox- the most powerful of domesticated animals; eagle- the mightiest of birds. (NIV Study Bible Notes)

Colossians 1:16 says: “For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him.”  It gives us immense strength to know a sovereign God who is LORD over all! Everything, every power is subject to Him! 

GOD the Omnipresent: Above the four creatures Ezekiel sees the Creator on His throne, majestic and covered in glory. The throne can travel in any direction signifying God who is able to be anywhere anytime! This was important to Ezekiel and his people to understand that He was present even here where they were in exile. 

The Psalmist in Ps.139:7 says, “Where can I go from your Spirit? Where can I flee from your presence?” This gives us great relief in tough times when we think we are all alone with no one to help. Besides, “The LORD is near to the brokenhearted And saves those who are crushed in spirit.” (Ps.34:18). He is ever present in all our situations. Besides the Lord Jesus promises His own: “…And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

GOD the Omniscient: The eyes on the rims of the wheels of the chariot represent an all-seeing God- He can see everything, everywhere! Prov.15:3 says, “The eyes of the Lord are everywhere, keeping watch on the wicked and the good.” Ezekiel was so overwhelmed with the vision that he fell face down. 

Even before we were born, God’s eyes saw our unformed substance (Psalm 139:16). All our ways are known to Him. The fact that He sees our every thought, action, the steps we take should both bring a sense of caution in us as well as comfort that He watches us constantly- we are under His care! God’s eyes are on all- there is a day of reckoning for the wicked!
 

Nathaniel in his encounter with Jesus— “How do you know me?” Nathanael asked. Jesus answered, “I saw you while you were still under the fig tree before Philip called you.” (John 1:48).  Your call into His service was long planned even before you saw it coming! Jesus spoke in John 15:16: "You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last…." 

If you are struggling with any thought of where you are right now and what is happening in your life—but if you know Him as revealed in our text today, you can be assured that the sovereign God by your side will accomplish all that He has started you! 

*Ref: Unlocking the Bible- Pawson/ NIV Study Bible

 

To Act On:

May we fall face down in worship before

the Awesome God of glory!

Listen- ‘Facedown’