One of the most powerful demonstrations of God’s ability to restore life to that which was dead is found in Ezekiel’s writings. Ezekiel implores the use of the Hebrew word chayah – a sense of living. The power of this term is in its repeated use (153x) in the Old Testament. The most dramatic use of this term is seen in the sentence construct of an oath. “Therefore, as I live (chayah)…..” The power of the first half of the oath sets up the reality of the second half of the oath. This is a powerful way to communicate truth that applies to our daily living.
We read how God took Ezekiel out in the spirit and sat him in the valley of dry dead bones and asks the question can these bones live? The response, “O Lord God, you know…” In other words, Ezekiel acknowledged his humanity – from the human perspective I do not see the possibility of life. However, Ezekiel acknowledged whom he was talking to. Translated “Adon Yahweh” – this double use of deity was to acknowledge in the highest manner possible the living God. Because you live then you know if this valley of death can live again. Ezekiel used the terms of life more than any other Old Testament writer to portray the death of a Babylonian captivity and the restoration of life and future glory that would be restored.
Now that we are starting to return from our national quarantine there is much debate about finding our way back to “normal” before Covid-19. History has demonstrated that change is always the result after major crisis on any level. However, as we hear the words of scripture, “As surely as I live….” We can take comfort and heart in the Lord of life that he is able to make good of the second half of the oath: I am going to heaven to prepare a place for you. As you see me leaving, I will doubtless return and receive you unto myself.
Shepherds Advantage provides Servant Leadership that helps people close the gap between where they are and where they want to be. Shepherds Advantage closes that gap by providing Leadership Development, Key Note Speaking, and Executive Coaching.
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