The man said to me, “Son of man, look carefully and listen closely and pay attention to everything I am going to show you, for that is why you have been brought here. Tell the people of Israel everything you see.”
Ezekiel 40:4 NIV
God led Ezekiel into a vision of a restored temple and set him on a very high mountain (Ezekiel 40:2). There the prophet saw a man whose appearance was like bronze, holding a linen cord and a measuring rod. Then God spoke directly: “…look carefully, listen closely, and pay attention to everything I am going to show you, for that is why you have been brought here. Tell the people of Israel everything you see.”
That command is the key. The vision was not a mere spectacle. God expected Ezekiel to record and to report. He called the prophet to notice details so he could describe the temple accurately. Later, God repeats the burden: describe the temple so the people may be ashamed of their sin and return to faithful obedience (Ezekiel 43:10–11). In short, with every revelation comes a responsibility.
This principle matters for us today. God does not place anyone somewhere by accident. When He leads you into a season, a role, or a trial, He intends purpose. Sometimes the purpose is to shape you. Often, it is also to prepare you to speak, to warn, or to bless others. So the call to “look carefully” still applies: attend to the moments God gives you because they matter.
Practically, paying close attention looks like disciplined listening and deliberate record-keeping. Pray for eyes to see and ears to hear. Keep a journal of promptings, answers and impressions. Test what you sense against Scripture and wise counsel. Then act. Accurate attention without faithful action becomes mere curiosity. God’s revelations require obedience.
There is also a pastoral or messenger angle here. Ezekiel’s vision aimed to draw Israel to repentance. Likewise, God may show you something not simply for your own edification but so you can speak to others. When God gives insight, steward it. Share it with humility and clarity. Speak truth to build and to correct, not to boast.
Beware the cost of inattentiveness. If we fail to notice God’s leading, His fuller work may remain undone through us. Opportunities pass. Moments of correction or commissioning slip away. Yet when we pay attention and obey, God finds willing vessels and releases His purpose through ordinary lives.
God calls you to be attentive and to be faithful. He intends to accomplish something with each day you consecrate to Him. Receive His invitation to watch, to listen, and to tell what you have seen.
Living It Out
Today, set aside some time to ask the Lord where He has placed you and why. Pray for clear eyes and obedient hearts. Write one insight He gives you and one step of obedience you will take this week. Commit to telling someone what God shows you—so His purpose can advance through your life.