Ezekiel 1:1-3; 36:16-38; 37

Ezekiel was a prophet during Judah’s exile in Babylon and he lived among them. Through Ezekiel, God spoke promises over Israel about their restoration. Not only would God restore the people of Israel to their land, but he would give them a new heart and spirit. God promised to place his own spirit within them so that they would obey his commands. In addition to this, Israel will once again be unified and they will forever dwell in the land God gave them. And God will do all this, not because Israel deserves it, but for the sake of his own name.

The promise God made in Ezekiel 36:26-27 is what all believers experience at regeneration. We were dead in our trespasses and sins (Ephesians 2:1), and like the dry bones, were raised to newness of life. And with that new life, God gives us a new heart and puts his spirit in us. With God’s spirit dwelling in us, we are finally capable to live out God’s commands and please him with our lives. On our own, we are unable to do this. It is only through the work of God, through Jesus Christ, that this is possible. And he is the one who will sit on David’s throne forever.

What is your response to God giving you a new heart & spirit?