A NEW HEART

The Book of Ezekiel was written during the dark times experienced by the people of Israel. At that time, they lived in exile, lost their land, witnessed the destruction of the temple of God, and lost their sense of security. This suffering was not only a result of political defeat, but also a consequence of their unfaithfulness to the Lord. For a long time, they hardened their hearts and moved away from His will. In that situation, the Lord spoke through Ezekiel, not only to rebuke, but also to restore.

The Lord declared that true restoration does not begin with a change in circumstances, but with a change of heart. The Lord saw that the main problem of His people was their hardened hearts, hearts that were no longer sensitive to the voice of God. Therefore, the Lord promised to do a radical work by replacing their hardened hearts with new hearts, and placing His Spirit within them so that they could live obediently.

This word reminds us again that life change does not come from human efforts alone. We may often try to improve ourselves with spiritual disciplines, good intentions, or new resolutions, but still fall back into old patterns. Or we may continue to worship, serve, and appear spiritual, yet harbor hearts that are weary, bitter, or closed off. Today, the Lord longs to touch the deepest parts of our lives to restore motivation, heal wounds, and shape obedience born out of love. A new heart is a gift, not an achievement. --SYS/www.renunganharian.net