Man, lion, ox, eagle

Man, lion, ox, eagle

Scripture:- Their faces looked like this: Each of the four had the face of a human being, and on the right side each had the face of a lion, and on the left the face of an ox; each also had the face of an eagle. Ezekiel 1:10

Observation:- At the very beginning of the book of Ezekiel, the Lord came to him and showed him great visions. And Ezekiel saw four great living creatures from God whose appearances were totally amazing. Imagine a creature in appearance like a man, but with 4 wings and 2 straight feet with ends like hooves and he had 4 faces - human being, lion, ox and eagle.

What do these four faces represent? The man represents wisdom and authority. He has more wisdom and knowledge than any creature in the animal kingdom. He also represents relationship for only man can have a meaningful relationship with God. The lion represents boldness and courage, and also gives us a sense of royalty. The lion is also typically aggressive and his powerful roar is enough to send the enemy fleeing in fear. The ox represents strength, perseverance and hard work. The eagle represents insight and perception, power and grace.  

In our Lord Jesus, we see the culmination of the qualities of each of the four. As a man, He showed wisdom and authority over all nature as God intended for man. As the Lion of Judah, He routed the enemy forces by His word alone. Like a strong ox, He worked hard as a carpenter into adulthood, and then served faithfully from town to town to minister to the people. Finally, He sacrificed Himself as the perfect burnt offering by dying on the cross that our sins might be forgiven. Like an eagle, He had perfect insight and perception into all things, knowing the heart of every man.

For those who serve God, the qualities of the four are important. As a man, it is important to exercise wisdom and knowledge. As a lion, we must exhibit courage and boldness and know we are part of God’s royal family. As an ox, we must work hard in service with strength and faithfulness. As an eagle, we can show insight and grace, perception and poise as we advance God’s kingdom.

Application: Think of the 4 faces, and write down some qualities we see associated with each. Ask God to build that quality in you, and make you stronger, better, braver and wiser.

Prayer: Lord Jesus, I thank you for Your perfect example, as perfect Man, as Lion of Judah, as humble Sacrifice and in Your deep insight and wisdom. Let these qualities grow in me O Lord that I might serve you better. In Jesus name, Amen.