Spiritual Gems for the Week of November 30–December 6, 2026

Ezekiel 1:6, 10. Taken together, what do the four faces of the cherubs Ezekiel saw in a vision represent? (rr p. 43 par. 5; p. 45 par. 13; p. 48 par. 14).

Answer 1: Taken together, the four faces represent all of Jehovah’s qualities, not just four of them. The Bible often uses the number four to convey the idea of something complete or all-encompassing. In this vision, Ezekiel mentions that number 11 times. Just as the four cherubs represent all faithful spirit creatures, their four faces encompass the full range of qualities that make up Jehovah’s wonderful personality.

Answer 2: In addition to representing all of Jehovah’s qualities as a whole, the faces highlight his extraordinary power and glory. They correspond to creatures that reflect majesty, strength, and power: The lion is a majestic wild animal; the bull, an imposing domestic animal; the eagle, a powerful bird; and man, the masterpiece of God’s earthly creations. Jehovah used these familiar images to help Ezekiel better understand His greatness.

Answer 3: An important detail is the position of the cherubs: They were beneath Jehovah’s throne. The four faces represented powerful earthly creatures, but none of them was above the Supreme Sovereign. Thus, in addition to encompassing all his qualities, the vision showed that Jehovah can use his creation to accomplish his purpose. The majesty of those creatures did not compete with Jehovah’s; rather, it helped highlight the superiority of his power and glory.

Answer 4: The comparison with the four wheels helps us understand why we should not limit the meaning of the faces to four qualities. Each wheel was awe-inspiring, but together they formed the base of the chariot. Similarly, the four faces, considered as a whole, represented more than four extraordinary qualities. They encompassed all of Jehovah’s qualities, which are the basis of his wonderful personality. The key is to view them as a whole, not merely separately.

Answer 5: Our publications have associated the lion’s face with justice, the eagle’s face with wisdom that sees beyond what is obvious, and the bull’s face with extraordinary power. These associations help us understand aspects of Jehovah’s personality. However, the question refers to the faces viewed as a whole. In that case, their meaning is broader: It is not limited to a few qualities but encompasses all of Jehovah’s qualities.

What spiritual gems from this week’s Bible reading have you enjoyed?

Spiritual Gems for EZEKIEL 1

Ezekiel 1:1 — In the 30th year, on the fifth day of the fourth month, while I was among the exiled people by the river Chebar, the heavens were opened and I began to see visions of God.

Comment 1: Ezekiel 1:1 shows that the prophet received visions from God while he was in exile. His difficult circumstances did not prevent Jehovah from communicating with him. This reminds me that I do not need to have a problem-free life in order to strengthen my friendship with Jehovah. Even in painful situations, I can continue paying attention to his Word.

Ezekiel 1:3 — the word of Jehovah came to Ezekiel son of Buzi the priest by the river Chebar in the land of the Chaldeans. There the hand of Jehovah came upon him.

Comment 2: At Ezekiel 1:3, the prophet not only received Jehovah’s words; he also had his support, as indicated by the mention of Jehovah’s hand being upon him. He did not have to face his commission relying solely on his own ability. When I receive a spiritual responsibility that seems difficult, this detail encourages me not to focus only on my limitations. I can seek Jehovah’s help and prepare with confidence in him.

Ezekiel 1:4 — As I was looking, I saw a tempestuous wind coming from the north, and there was a huge cloud and flashing fire surrounded by a bright light, and from the midst of the fire was something that looked like electrum.

Comment 3: Ezekiel 1:4 describes an impressive scene, with a storm, a huge cloud, fire, and intense light. This presentation directs attention to Jehovah’s greatness. When I meditate on it, I am reminded that my worship should not become a feelingless routine. Before praying or participating in a meeting, I can pause to think about how extraordinary the God is whom I have the privilege of approaching.

Ezekiel 1:5 — Within it were what looked like four living creatures, and the appearance of each one was like that of a human.

Comment 4: Ezekiel 1:5 introduces the four living creatures. The explanation of the vision indicates that these cherubs represent all faithful spirit creatures. It encourages me to think that worship of Jehovah is not limited to what we see in our congregation. There is also a heavenly family that faithfully serves him. When it seems that few people around us value spiritual things, remembering this picture can help us maintain a broader perspective.

Ezekiel 1:12 — They would each go straight forward, going wherever the spirit would incline them to go. They would not turn as they went.

Comment 5: At Ezekiel 1:12, the living creatures went wherever the spirit inclined them to go. Their willingness to follow that direction makes me think about the importance of allowing myself to be guided by Jehovah instead of clinging to my preferences. When I find advice in the Bible that requires a change, I can ask myself whether I am really willing to apply it. Obedience is demonstrated by adjusting my decisions, not merely by acknowledging that the advice is good.

Ezekiel 1:14 — And when the living creatures would go forth and return, their movement had the appearance of flashes of lightning.

Comment 6: Ezekiel 1:14 compares the movement of the living creatures to flashes of lightning. The speed of the scene makes me think about my own readiness to act when I know what Jehovah expects of me. For example, if I need to apologize or provide help that is within my reach, do I keep putting it off? Without assigning a meaning to every detail of the vision, I can take that readiness as an encouragement not to postpone what is right.

Ezekiel 1:17 — When they moved, they could go in any of the four directions without turning as they went.

Comment 7: Ezekiel 1:17 describes wheels that could move in any of the four directions without turning. This extraordinary movement is part of a vision that highlights Jehovah’s greatness. It reminds me that I should not measure his ability by human limitations. If I cannot see how a difficulty can be resolved, that does not mean that Jehovah lacks resources. I can continue doing what is expected of me without assuming that my perspective is the only possible one.

Ezekiel 1:19 — Whenever the living creatures moved, the wheels would move along with them, and when the living creatures were lifted up from the earth, the wheels would also be lifted up.

Comment 8: At Ezekiel 1:19, the wheels moved along with the living creatures, even when the creatures rose up from the earth. The scene shows extraordinary coordination. As a personal application, it makes me think about how I cooperate with my brothers. In a congregation task, it is not enough for each person to do a lot on his own. Listening, communicating, and respecting what has been agreed on help our effort truly to be united and keep us from unnecessarily complicating the work of others.

Ezekiel 1:22 — Over the heads of the living creatures was the likeness of an expanse that sparkled like awesome ice, stretched out above their heads.

Comment 9: Ezekiel 1:22 describes the expanse by comparing its brilliance to ice. Jehovah used images that Ezekiel could understand to show him extraordinary realities. This week’s information also highlights the value of visual aids when teaching. It encourages me to use simple comparisons when explaining a Bible truth to my children or to a student. The goal is not to impress with difficult words but to help the person understand and remember the teaching.

Ezekiel 1:25 — There was a voice above the expanse over their heads. (When they stood still, they would let their wings down.)

Comment 10: At Ezekiel 1:25, a voice is heard above the expanse, and it is also mentioned that the living creatures lowered their wings when they stood still. As I read the scene, I think about how necessary it is to pause and listen. In my personal study, I may be so focused on completing a certain amount of reading that I fail to meditate on anything. Pausing and asking myself what I am learning about Jehovah can make that time much more beneficial.

Ezekiel 1:26 — Above the expanse that was over their heads was what looked like a sapphire stone, and it resembled a throne. Sitting on the throne up above was someone whose appearance resembled that of a human.

Comment 11: Ezekiel 1:26 places the throne above the expanse and the living creatures. The explanation of the vision highlights that Jehovah is the Supreme Sovereign and can use his creation to accomplish his purpose. This helps me keep any ability or responsibility I have in its proper place. None of it makes me independent of Jehovah. The proper thing is to use what I have to serve him and recognize that supreme authority always belongs to him.

Ezekiel 1:28 — like that of a rainbow in a cloud on a rainy day. That was how the surrounding brilliant light appeared. It was like the appearance of the glory of Jehovah. When I saw it, I fell facedown and began to hear the voice of someone speaking.

Comment 12: At Ezekiel 1:28, the prophet falls facedown when he sees that representation of Jehovah’s glory. Receiving such a special vision did not cause him to become self-important; instead, he showed deep respect. His reaction teaches me that knowing Jehovah better should make me more humble. If I receive an assignment or learn a great deal from the Bible, I want it to increase my gratitude and willingness to listen, not make me feel superior to others.

Spiritual Gems for EZEKIEL 2

Ezekiel 2:1 — He then said to me: “Son of man, stand up on your feet that I may speak with you.”

Comment 1: Ezekiel 2:1 shows that Jehovah wanted to speak with the prophet and told him to stand up. Although Jehovah is incomparably superior, he communicated with a human. This makes me value Bible reading even more. It is not simply a task; it is an opportunity to pay attention to what Jehovah teaches us.

Ezekiel 2:2 — When he spoke to me, spirit came into me and made me stand up on my feet so that I could hear the One speaking to me.

Comment 2: At Ezekiel 2:2, the spirit helped the prophet stand up so that he could listen. Jehovah not only told him what to do; he also gave him the needed help. This detail encourages me when a responsibility overwhelms me. Instead of immediately concluding that I cannot fulfill it, I can ask Jehovah for his spirit and take the steps within my reach. Depending on his help does not mean remaining inactive but acting with confidence in him.

Ezekiel 2:3 — He went on to say to me: “Son of man, I am sending you to the people of Israel, to rebellious nations that have rebelled against me. They and their forefathers have transgressed against me down to this very day.

Comment 3: Ezekiel 2:3 shows that Jehovah knew perfectly well how rebellious the Israelites were and yet sent a prophet to them. He did not treat their errors as unimportant, but neither did he stop directing his message to them. This helps me in the ministry not to decide in advance who deserves attention. Even if someone has shown little interest, I can continue treating him with respect and take an appropriate opportunity to share a Bible teaching without pressuring him.

Ezekiel 2:3 — He went on to say to me: “Son of man, I am sending you to the people of Israel, to rebellious nations that have rebelled against me. They and their forefathers have transgressed against me down to this very day.

Comment 4: Another detail at Ezekiel 2:3 is that both the Israelites and their forefathers had disobeyed Jehovah’s laws. The fact that conduct is repeated for generations does not make it right. This invites me to examine my family customs in the light of the Bible. I can appreciate many things about my upbringing and at the same time be willing to change any attitude or practice that does not harmonize with what Jehovah teaches us.

Ezekiel 2:4 — I am sending you to sons who are defiant and hardhearted, and you must say to them, ‘This is what the Sovereign Lord Jehovah says.’

Comment 5: At Ezekiel 2:4, Jehovah told the prophet to make clear from whom the message came. Ezekiel was not to present his opinions as though they were God’s words. This principle is very useful when teaching or giving advice. I must distinguish between what the Bible says and what I personally think. If I let the Bible text be the basis of the explanation, I help the person trust in Jehovah, not in my judgment.

Ezekiel 2:5 — As for them, whether they listen or refuse to listen—for they are a rebellious house—they will certainly know that a prophet was among them.

Comment 6: Ezekiel 2:5 shows that the prophet’s commission would have value whether people listened or refused to listen. The people’s response was not the only measure of his work. Although our assignment is not the same as Ezekiel’s, I find an encouraging principle for the ministry: I cannot control the decisions of others. I can prepare well, explain the Bible clearly, and treat people with respect.

Ezekiel 2:6 — “But you, son of man, do not be afraid of them, and do not be afraid of their words, although you are surrounded by briars and thorns and are dwelling among scorpions. Do not be afraid of their words, and do not be terrified by their faces, for they are a rebellious house.

Comment 7: At Ezekiel 2:6, Jehovah mentions both the words and the faces of those who could intimidate the prophet. He recognized that opposition can frighten us even before anyone acts against us. I am comforted that Jehovah does not overlook that pressure. If a look or a comment makes me nervous when speaking about my beliefs, I can remember this counsel, pray, and respond calmly. Being courageous does not require answering harshly or getting into an argument.

Ezekiel 2:7 — You must speak my words to them, whether they listen or not, for they are a rebellious people.

Comment 8: Ezekiel 2:7 highlights what the prophet was to convey: Jehovah’s words, even though the people were rebellious. The resistance of his listeners did not give him permission to replace the message with one that was more comfortable. This reminds me that when teaching, I can adapt the vocabulary and the way I explain something, but I must not change a Bible teaching to gain approval. Consideration for the person and faithfulness to God’s Word must go together.

Ezekiel 2:8 — “But you, son of man, listen to what I am telling you. Do not become rebellious like this rebellious house. Open your mouth and eat what I am giving you.”

Comment 9: At Ezekiel 2:8, Jehovah first asks the prophet to listen. Before conveying a message to others, he himself had to pay attention to divine instruction. I find this order very useful when preparing a comment or a Bible study. I do not want to read solely with the thought of what someone else needs to change. First I can ask myself what the passage teaches me and how to apply it. In this way, my teaching will be accompanied by a sincere effort to obey.

Ezekiel 2:8 — “But you, son of man, listen to what I am telling you. Do not become rebellious like this rebellious house. Open your mouth and eat what I am giving you.”

Comment 10: Ezekiel 2:8 also contains a personal warning: The prophet was not to become rebellious like those around him. Receiving a commission from Jehovah did not make him immune to bad influences. This reminds me that I must guard my attitude even if I have been serving Jehovah for many years. If those around me constantly criticize Bible guidance, I need to avoid allowing that atmosphere to shape my thinking. My obedience must be a personal decision, not depend on the conduct of others.

Ezekiel 2:9 — When I looked, I saw a hand stretched out to me, and in it I saw a written scroll.

Comment 11: Ezekiel 2:9 shows a hand presenting the prophet with a written scroll. Ezekiel did not have to invent the content of his message; it was provided to him. When I think about this detail, I appreciate that we too have written instruction in the Bible. When a question arises, I do not need to settle for a first impression or for what I remember imprecisely. I can open God’s Word, review the passage, and carefully verify what it teaches.

Ezekiel 2:10 — When he spread it out before me, it had writing on both front and back. Dirges and mourning and wailing were written on it.

Comment 12: At Ezekiel 2:10, the scroll contained dirges, mourning, and wailing. The message the prophet was to receive was not pleasant or light; it included painful matters. This teaches me not to look in the Bible only for words that make me feel good. I also need its warnings and corrections. If a passage exposes an attitude that I need to change, the best course is to listen to it seriously rather than avoid it because it makes me uncomfortable.