God’s promise of renewal and hope

Ezekiel 36:25-28. “I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols. 26. I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. 27. And I will put my Spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws.”

This Scripture brings us comfort because it reminds us that God instigated and instituted the New Covenant of grace through Jesus Christ. It is Him that we thank and worship because of His great love. It is a privilege and joy to walk with Him, but often the journey of life takes us through the valley of the shadow of death, discomfort or disaster. Christians are not immune, because “It rains on the just and the unjust.” During difficult times, we need to remember that He can meet all of our needs.

Scripture and experience itself are crystal clear that life is not always easy or comfortable. So, how do we go on? We find strength in the knowledge that God is aware of our situation and that He is ever available to “make up” what we lack.

God is not only the great “I Am,” but He is also the great “I Can.” After announcing the birth of Jesus to Mary, the angel informed her that “nothing is impossible with God.” Luke 1:37. Mary’s and Elizabeth’s situation seemed impossible, but the God who is always available met their needs and exceeded their expectations.

God transforms our lives and situations when we take them to Him and ask for His assistance.

Prayer: Father, we thank you for your undying interest in our well-being. We pray for a growing awareness of Your ability and interest in meeting all of our needs. Grant us the insight, strength and courage to live for Your glory.

Pastor Ray Martin

Southside Church of God, Alliance