5-22-07 Ezekiel 36: 33-36

Ezekiel 36:33-36 (NIVUS)
This is what the Sovereign LORD says: On the day I cleanse you from all your sins, I will resettle your towns, and the ruins will be rebuilt. The desolate land will be cultivated instead of lying desolate in the sight of all who pass through it. They will say, "This land that was laid waste has become like the Garden of Eden; the cities that were lying in ruins, desolate and destroyed, are now fortified and inhabited." Then the nations around you that remain will know that I the LORD have rebuilt what was destroyed and have replanted what was desolate. I the LORD have spoken, and I will do it.

The Lord Jehovah has cleansed and purified you. He made an intentional decision to deliver you from all of your perversity, depravity, and iniquity. Whatever was bent, twisted, or distorted in you has been straightened by His word. He separated you from all wrong. You now have no guilt or fear of punishment at His hands.

Adonai the Almighty has caused you to dwell in a secure and well guarded place. He watches over and protects you. He has rebuilt what was once waste and ruin. You have received restoration and refreshment for the desolation and drought you have endured. You have been established and will continue strong in Him.

Jehovah (Jesus the Lord) has taken your devastated, ravaged and deserted land and has worked and tilled it. Many people used to be astounded and astonished at the destruction in your life, but now they see something totally different. You have become like the Garden of Eden, a place that contains pleasant, delightful and fine things. What was torn and broken down is now fortified and enclosed. What was dried up and laid waste has become a safe habitation, a place where others would like to abide.

You have become a mystery to those who used to despise you, for they perceive that the Lord has shown you favor. They recognize that He has rebuilt your life. He has planted good seed in you and has fixed what was broken. He declared that He would do this for you and He has kept His word. Your life is a testimony of God's goodness and faithfulness