How can we apply the message of Ezekiel 37:5 to our spiritual renewal? Setting the Scene “Thus says the Lord GOD to these bones: I will cause breath to enter you, and you will live.” (Ezekiel 37:5) Ezekiel watches a valley of dry bones. Israel’s exile looks final, yet God pledges literal resurrection. The “breath” (Hebrew ruach – spirit, wind) signals the Holy Spirit’s life-giving power (Genesis 2:7; John 3:8). What God did for dead bones, He does for hearts grown cold or defeated. The Promise in the Valley Ezekiel 37:5 teaches that: 1. God initiates renewal—“I will cause.” 2. True life is spiritual—“breath…live.” 3. No case is too hopeless—“dry bones” become living bodies. Principles for Personal Renewal • Dependence: Spiritual vitality never begins with self-effort but with God’s Spirit (Zechariah 4:6). • Receptivity: Dry bones must “hear the word of the LORD” (v. 4). We position ourselves under Scripture. • Transformation: When breath enters, existence turns to life; religion becomes relationship (2 Corinthians 5:17). • Continuance: The bones stand “an exceedingly great army” (v. 10), showing renewed purpose and strength. Practical Steps to Breathe in the Spirit • Daily Scripture intake – Choose a reading plan; read aloud to let the word address “dry” areas (Hebrews 4:12). • Confession and cleansing – Like David: “Create in me a clean heart, O God” (Psalm 51:10). Admit deadness; invite fresh breath. • Yielded prayerful surrender – Jesus “breathed on them and said, ‘Receive the Holy Spirit’” (John 20:22). Open hands, open heart. • Fellowship with revived believers – Bones connect before they live (Ezekiel 37:7). Join gatherings where the Spirit’s life is evident (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Active obedience – Respond immediately to Spirit prompts; obedience keeps channels clear (James 1:22). Encouragement from Related Passages • Romans 8:11 – “He who raised Christ…will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you.” • Ephesians 2:1-5 – Once dead in sins, now “made alive with Christ.” • Isaiah 44:3 – “I will pour out My Spirit on your offspring…like streams on the dry ground.” What God promised in Ezekiel’s valley is the same today: when His Spirit breathes, the driest soul lives again. |
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