In what ways can we speak hope to others, as God does here? Setting the Scene “Therefore prophesy concerning the land of Israel and say to the mountains and hills, to the ravines and valleys: ‘This is what the Lord GOD says: Behold, I have spoken in My zeal and in My wrath, because you have endured the insults of the nations.’ ” God addresses the land itself, promising vindication after years of scorn. His words overflow with certainty, resolve, and forward-looking goodness—exactly the ingredients of true biblical hope. God’s Words of Hope in Ezekiel 36:6 •He speaks directly to the offended party, acknowledging the pain. •He makes His own character the foundation: “I have spoken in My zeal.” •He promises that injustice will not stand forever. •He sets in motion a future reversal—insults will be replaced by honor (vv. 7–11). Principles for Speaking Hope 1.Recognize the wound •God names the “insults.” Acknowledge the real hurt people carry (Romans 12:15). 2.Root encouragement in God’s nature •“Zeal,” “wrath,” and fidelity reveal a God who is passionately for His people (Psalm 145:17). •We point others to His unchanging character (Hebrews 13:8). 3.Point to promised outcomes •God promises restoration (Ezekiel 36:8–11). •Our hope-giving words echo His promises: ultimate justice (Revelation 21:4), present help (Psalm 46:1). 4.Use clear, confident language •God says, “Behold, I have spoken.” No vagueness. •We speak with assurance grounded in Scripture (2 Corinthians 1:20). Scriptural Echoes of Hope-Filled Speech •Isaiah 40:1–2 – “Comfort, comfort My people…” •Romans 15:4 – Scripture “was written for our instruction, so that through endurance and the encouragement of the Scriptures, we might have hope.” •2 Corinthians 1:3–4 – We comfort others with the comfort we receive from God. •Ephesians 4:29 – Words should “impart grace to the hearers.” •1 Thessalonians 5:11 – “Encourage one another and build each other up.” Practical Ways to Speak Hope Today •Affirm God’s presence in the middle of someone’s trial: “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted” (Psalm 34:18). •Declare God’s promises aloud—write a verse in a note, text, or card. •Share personal testimonies of His past faithfulness; real stories anchor future hope. •Choose words that lift, not belittle—replace “It might get better” with “God is working all things together for good” (Romans 8:28). •Pray Scripture over someone in their hearing, letting them hear God’s voice through His Word. •Consistently remind believers of their secure future: an imperishable inheritance (1 Peter 1:3–4). •Show up; presence reinforces spoken hope, mirroring God’s promise, “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). |
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