How can we apply the promise of safety in Ezekiel 34:25 to our lives? The Promise in Context “I will make with them a covenant of peace and rid the land of vicious beasts, so that they may live securely in the wilderness and sleep in the forest.” (Ezekiel 34:25) What God Declares in Ezekiel 34:25 • A covenant personally established by the LORD • “Peace” that is comprehensive—shalom: well-being, wholeness, security • Removal of threats (“vicious beasts”) that symbolize anything that endangers God’s flock • Rest and safety even in places that would normally feel vulnerable (“wilderness,” “forest”) Why This Matters for Us • God’s character does not change (Malachi 3:6); His promises reveal His enduring heart for His people. • In Christ, believers participate in the “everlasting covenant” sealed by His blood (Hebrews 13:20). • Spiritual enemies—sin, Satan, fear, condemnation—are defeated through the cross (Colossians 2:14-15). • The verse foreshadows the ultimate safety of God’s kingdom, yet it also supplies daily confidence now (John 10:27-29). Practical Ways to Live Out This Promise • Trust the Shepherd daily – Begin each day recalling that Jesus is the “Good Shepherd” who lays down His life for the sheep (John 10:11). – Replace anxious thoughts with the certainty that He guards your soul (Philippians 4:6-7). • Identify the “vicious beasts” Christ has already disarmed – Guilt: cling to Romans 8:1—“Therefore there is now no condemnation…” – Fear of death: rest in Hebrews 2:14-15—He has broken its power. – Lies: counter with John 8:31-32—truth sets free. • Walk in practical obedience – Stay within the Shepherd’s fold by gathering with fellow believers (Hebrews 10:24-25). – Feed on His Word; safety is found where His voice is heard (Psalm 119:105). – Refuse pathways that invite harm; holiness is protection (Proverbs 13:6). • Sleep in peace – End the day acknowledging God’s watch (Psalm 4:8). – Physically rest, knowing true security is granted, not self-manufactured (Psalm 127:1-2). • Anticipate the future fulfillment – Look forward to the day when “nothing harmful” will be on His holy mountain (Isaiah 11:9). – Let that hope fuel perseverance and joyful witness today (1 Peter 3:15). Encouraging Companion Passages • Psalm 23:1-4—He leads beside still waters, even through the valley. • Jeremiah 32:40—“I will make an everlasting covenant with them, that I will never turn away from doing good to them.” • John 16:33—“In the world you will have tribulation. But take courage; I have overcome the world.” • Revelation 7:16-17—the Lamb will shepherd and wipe away every tear. Closing Thoughts The covenant of peace in Ezekiel 34:25 is God’s solemn pledge to shield His people. Because that promise rests on His unchanging character and was ratified in Christ, believers today can live, labor, and even sleep with unshakeable assurance: the Shepherd is near, the threats are defeated, and ultimate safety is guaranteed. |
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