Enjoy Life, Enjoy God

HEARTS OF FLESH

July 14, 2009

"Heart" is an important biblical word. Usually it has nothing to do with the pump for our blood; almost always it's the symbol of who we are as human beings. Heart=the person.

 For I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you will be clean; I will cleanse you from all your impurities and from all your idols. I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put my spirit in you and move you to follow my decrees and be careful to keep my laws.
-Ezekiel 36:25-27 TNIV

Ezekiel, the prophet, speaks challenging, yet hopeful words to Israel, to a people who, at the least, have drifted away from their God; their religious passion and commitment was an afterthought and in form only, not in heart. But that day will change speaks the prophet.

These are words to Israel, yes. But they often speak to me. How have I become complacent, casual in my devotion? How have I become mechanical, and my formerly devoted heart turned to stone? What about you?
Joyfully,

Dale Patterson