Only by the Spirit of God – Beloved Women – September 14, 2020
READ: “And he said to me, ‘Son of man, can these bones live?’ And I answered, ‘O Lord God, you know.” (Ezekiel 37:3 ESV)
TODAY’S ENCOURAGEMENT: I was 99% sure it would not grow back. As I stared at the storm-shredded tree trunk, remains of my once vibrant, verdant tree, I doubted every word my gardener said. To me, it was as good as dead. But I was wrong. Dead wrong. Now, every time I enjoy its lush, colorful blooms, I’m reminded of God’s resurrection power.
When God set Ezekiel down in a valley filled with dry bones, it was like the scene of a bloody battle fought and long lost. No signs of life remained, and death was evident all around. Yet with humility and in full recognition of God’s sovereignty, Ezekiel confessed that God alone knew if the bones could live. God alone. Through faith-filled obedience, Ezekiel witnessed the Spirit of God re-create life. A vast, living, breathing army stood where once lay a pile of dried bones.
You may be tempted to call ‘dead’ where God sees ‘life.’ Your willingness to obey in these dry places may be growing dim, but never forget the miraculous, life-giving power of God’s Spirit. Pray for His Spirit to breathe new life into the dead places of your life and humbly obey where He leads.
PRAY: Almighty God, I praise You for Your power, presence, and purpose in my life. I confess my unbelief and unwillingness to press on when hope seems dead. O Lord, please pour Your Spirit afresh on me. May Your resurrecting power shine forth in my life and the lives of my loved ones. In Jesus Christ’s Name, I pray, Amen.
REFECT: Is there something you’ve been praying for and haven’t seen yet? Are you struggling to believe that God can breathe new life into the dry valleys of your life? How does this passage encourage you today?
SHARE: Never forget the miraculous, life-giving power of God’s Spirit.
CONNECT: Find more encouragement from Carla Lake on Instagram here.
MORE BELOVED: If you like the Beloved Women Daily Devotional you will love the Beloved Women’s Online Conference. This a one-day event is filled with speakers, worship, workshops and more to refresh, refuel, and empower women like us to find rest for our souls, peace for our minds, and hope for the journey. Our mission is to replenish the women who do so much for their families and communities so they can continue to build better futures for themselves and those they love and serve. If you’re ready to energize your relationship with God learn more and register today at https://www.belovedconference.org.
© 2020 by Carla Lake. All rights reserved.
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