Ezekiel

August 1

Ezekiel 2:4-7

They won’t listen

Ezekiel was God’s prophet to the Jews who had been taken captive by the Babylonians. God had allowed them to be taken as slaves to a distant country so that their sinful hearts would turn back to Him.

However, the hearts of the people were hard, and it would take many years for them to turn back to God.

So God encouraged Ezekiel and told him, “Do not be afraid of the people, though their threats surround you like thorns and their taunts sting like scorpions. Just keep telling the people whatever I tell you,” God said, “whether they listen or not.”

What if my friends won’t listen when I tell them about Jesus?

The Lord does not expect you to convince your unbelieving friends that the Bible is true. He simply wants you to tell them that Jesus loves them and wants to be their Savior and friend.

Don’t argue with friends who do not believe what the Bible says. Instead, tell them about God’s love and forgiveness, and about how Jesus came to save us from our sins. Help them understand that everyone has sinned and needs Jesus as their Savior. Be kind to your friends and let them see God’s love through the way you live.

Pray for your friends before you talk to them, and keep praying for them afterwards. Every time you share God’s Word, it is like planting a seed in their hearts. As you pray, you are watering that seed. The Holy Spirit can then help it grow.

Don’t be discouraged if someone does not listen to you. You cannot make someone believe in Jesus. Only the Holy Spirit can help a person see their need for Jesus and put their trust in Him. Your job is simply to share the Good News and pray. Be patient. Your friend may need time to think about what you said.

Verse for today

So is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty, but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it. Isaiah 55:11