What steps can we take to experience spiritual renewal as described in Ezekiel 36? Setting the Scene in Ezekiel 36 “Thus says the Lord GOD: ‘On the day I cleanse you from all your iniquities, I will cause the cities to be inhabited, and the ruins will be rebuilt.’ ” (Ezekiel 36:33) The chapter unfolds God’s pledge to cleanse, renew, and restore His people for His glory. Recognize the Divine Source of Renewal • God initiates and completes renewal (Ezekiel 36:22–23). • Our first step is acknowledging we cannot revive ourselves; we depend entirely on the Lord’s work (John 15:5). Confess and Forsake Defilement • “I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean.” (Ezekiel 36:25) • Confession brings cleansing (1 John 1:9). • Repentance means turning from every known sin and aligning with God’s holiness (Proverbs 28:13). Receive the New Heart God Promises • “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you.” (Ezekiel 36:26) • New birth by the Spirit (John 3:5) begins lifelong renewal. • Ask God to soften any remaining hardness (Psalm 51:10). Walk in Obedience by the Spirit • “I will put My Spirit within you and cause you to walk in My statutes.” (Ezekiel 36:27) • Yield daily to the Spirit’s leading (Galatians 5:16). • Obedience sustains renewal; disobedience stalls it (James 1:22). Cooperate with God’s Restoration Process • God rebuilds ruins gradually—one stone at a time (Ezekiel 36:33). • Participate through: – Regular Scripture intake (Joshua 1:8) – Persevering prayer (Colossians 4:2) – Fellowship with other believers (Hebrews 10:24–25) Expect Visible Fruitfulness • “The desolate land will be cultivated.” (Ezekiel 36:34) • Spiritual renewal produces outward change: restored relationships, holy lifestyles, effective witness (Matthew 5:16). • The Lord even “restores the years the locusts have eaten” (Joel 2:25), turning past ruins into testimony. Celebrate the Purpose: God’s Glory • “Then the nations... will know that I, the LORD, have rebuilt what was demolished.” (Ezekiel 36:36) • Renewal is never merely self-improvement; it magnifies God’s faithfulness and power (1 Corinthians 10:31). Summary of Practical Steps 1. Admit total dependence on God. 2. Confess and turn from sin. 3. Embrace the new heart offered in Christ. 4. Walk in daily Spirit-led obedience. 5. Engage consistently in Word, prayer, and fellowship. 6. Look for and nurture visible fruit. 7. Give all glory to God for every rebuilt “ruin.” |
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