Everybody likes new things, including God. He’s called the Ancient of Days but he says “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?” (Isaiah 43:19). God begins his story with creating a new world, and he ends it with his plans to make a new heaven and earth.
Our Heavenly Father wants to do new things in the lives of his children. He wants to teach us new truths about himself and provide new opportunities for ministering and helping others. He desires to take us to higher levels of worship and deeper levels of trust.
In today’s passage, Ezekiel says the people of Israel will return to the Lord. He tells them that God will give them a new heart and put his Spirit within them.
How do we obtain a renewed spirit and a new heart? God provides the tools to keep our faith and spirit renewed. As we study Scripture and read devotionals, we learn that God’s Word is timeless. Reading and applying the Scriptures can give us a new understanding, fresh insight, and renewed strength.
Let us continue to, as Paul said, “Put on our new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness” (Ephesians 4:24).
Heavenly Father, help me to expect new things this year, and daily renew my spirit by reading the Bible and praying. Thank you for giving me a new heart and helping me to gain new understanding so that I may glorify you in all that I do! Amen.
Throughout the Day: Think about a time you put on something new, perhaps a piece of clothing you received as a present. It made you feel great, right? Special, different...in a good way. Let that remind you that God wants to dress you in a new heart and spirit as well.
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