Most days my friend Matthew Henry and I read from a book of the Bible. We have been in Ezekiel for a while and yesterday we were in Chapter 2.
As we read Ezekiel’s words we found him beset by many of the same problems seemingly working against us and those who would like to see liberty and freedom in our day.
Should you find occasion to read Ezekiel, and you should, keep in mind he was writing to a captive people, he himself was a captive. But as a captive he was still chosen to speak God’s words of restoration and freedom to his fellow captives and distressed peoples.
Matthew goes on in his great commentary speaking of the difficulties Ezekiel would face. I believe he also speaks to those in our day who find themselves involved in the service of God, for others, for liberty, and in some cases even for a captive people.
Henry says do not be “afraid of the face of man.” If you are afraid he says, it will be “very entangling.”
He also speaks about the briers, thorns and weeds of life but says they are merely painful. You’re real concern is the scorpions which are “venomous and malignant.”
So, be aware of the prickly thorns and briers but be extremely careful with the scorpions. I think you know who they are.
Matthew also says keep it up! As Ezekiel was chosen, so might you be.
Matthew Henry’s additional encouragement to you from 17th Century England is “don’t be afraid!” Be aware of this. Ezekiel in his vision was with God’s angels but when he came down from the mount he still “dwelt with scorpions.”
If it looks like you are winning or have won, remember you still live with scorpions.
Be vigilant! Be hopeful!