Scripture in Action

Aneel Aranha is an author, preacher, and evangelist who has spoken to hundreds of thousands of people around the world. You can find a huge selection of his reflections, articles, sermons, songs and other resources on his app.

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Scripture in Action

Day 221

November 04, 2025 • Aneel Aranha • Season 3 • Episode 221

0:00 | 21:56

Explore God's authority over life and death through Ezekiel 31-33 and John 11, discovering how divine warnings and resurrection power call us to humility and hope.

Day 221 – More Than a Beautiful Song

Ezekiel 31–33
John 11

Think about the last concert you really enjoyed. You probably left humming the tunes. But did it change how you lived the next morning? Today's readings ask that question about God's word. In Ezekiel 31 and 32, God points Pharaoh to Assyria, once a towering cedar that pride brought crashing down. Then in chapter 33, God reminds Ezekiel that he's a watchman. His job is to sound the warning. And God pleads with His people, "Turn! Turn from your evil ways! Why will you die, people of Israel?" When news comes that Jerusalem has fallen, crowds suddenly gather to hear Ezekiel. But God tells him the truth. To them, he's just a singer of love songs with a beautiful voice. They hear his words, but they don't put them into practice. In John 11, Lazarus has been dead four days. Martha believes in a resurrection someday. Jesus tells her, "I am the resurrection and the life." Then He calls, "Lazarus, come out!" And the dead man walks out. Read side by side, these chapters show two ways to hear God. The crowds listened and went home unchanged. Lazarus heard Jesus and came out.

One theme runs through these passages. God's word isn't meant to be admired like a lovely song. It's meant to be obeyed. And the voice of Jesus is strong enough to raise the dead and call us into new life.

So how do we live this out today? Don't just enjoy the message. When Jesus calls, walk out of the tomb.

First, think back to the last sermon, podcast, or Bible study that stirred you. What was the one thing it asked of you? Hold that one thing in your mind. Then do it before the day is over.

Second, remember that Ezekiel had to speak whether people listened or not. Is there a warning you've been holding back? Maybe a friend is drifting into something harmful. Ask God for the right moment this week, and speak with love.

Third, reach out to someone who's grieving. Jesus wept with Mary and Martha, even knowing what He was about to do. Don't try to explain their loss or rush them toward hope. Just sit with them, listen, and let them see that you care.

As you step into your day, carry this with you. God's word isn't a song to enjoy and forget. It's a call, and it's waiting for your answer.

Thank you for joining me today. May God give you ears that hear, a heart that responds, and the courage to step out when Jesus calls your name. Until tomorrow, live what you've read and let it shape all you do.