In the journey of faith, we often find ourselves in situations similar to the prophet Ezekiel, who was tasked with delivering a difficult message from God. Ezekiel’s story, as shared in the sermon at Lakeview Christian Church of Portage Lakes, highlights the challenges of discerning God’s voice amidst conflicting messages. This narrative offers us valuable insights into the importance of prayer and obedience in our walk with God.
Ezekiel’s Challenge: A Lesson in Discernment
Ezekiel was called to deliver a message of impending judgment to the people of Israel, a task that was neither easy nor popular. As he faithfully proclaimed God’s warning, he encountered other prophets who contradicted his message, proclaiming “peace, peace” when there was no peace (Jeremiah 6:14, NIV). This created confusion among the people and even led Ezekiel to question how they would know that he was truly sent by God.
In this moment of doubt, God reassured Ezekiel that his responsibility was to faithfully deliver the message, leaving the outcome to God. This teaches us a crucial lesson: our role is to be obedient to God’s calling, trusting Him to handle the results. As Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV) reminds us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
The Power of Prayer: Seeking God’s Guidance
The sermon emphasized the necessity of grounding our actions in prayer. Prayer is our lifeline to God, enabling us to discern His will and receive His guidance. In a world filled with competing voices and opinions, prayer helps us align our hearts with God’s truth. Philippians 4:6-7 (NIV) encourages us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
By prioritizing prayer, we invite God to sort out the truth and direct our steps. This practice is essential for every believer, regardless of personal beliefs, preferences, or skills. It is through prayer that we find clarity and confidence in our calling, knowing that God is faithful to lead us.
Our Mission: Be the Change Through Prayerful Obedience
At Lakeview Christian Church, our mission is to “Be the Change as Jesus Has Changed Us.” This mission is realized through our commitment to “Study,” “Share,” and “Serve.” As we study God’s Word, we equip ourselves with His truth. As we share His love, we build relationships that reflect His grace. And as we serve others, we put love into action.
In all these endeavors, prayer is the foundation. It is through prayer that we seek God’s guidance, ensuring that our actions align with His will. As we navigate the challenges of life, let us remember Ezekiel’s example and trust God to work through us, even when the path is unclear.
Conclusion: Trusting God in Every Step
Ezekiel’s story reminds us that following God’s call is not always easy, but it is always right. By grounding ourselves in prayer and obedience, we can confidently navigate the complexities of life, trusting God to lead us. As we embrace our mission at Lakeview Christian Church, let us be diligent in prayer, seeking God’s wisdom and strength to be the change in our world. Together, we can make a difference, one prayerful step at a time.
