A Heart of Stone, A Heart of Flesh — Part 2

Welcome, 🙂

I’m so glad you’re here. This is part 2 of a devotional from Ezekiel. May the Lord encourage your heart.

"That I may know Him and the power of His resurrection, and may share His sufferings, becoming like Him in His death."
— Philippians 3:10

Have you ever picked up a smooth stone from the edge of a river? Its once-rough, jagged edges have been worn smooth over time by the constant movement of the water. What seemed harsh and turbulent became the very means by which the stone was shaped.

In a similar way, our loving heavenly Father uses the trials and suffering He allows in our lives to continue transforming our hearts. As we cling to Him through seasons of pain, grief, disappointment, and loss, we come to know Him more deeply. We experience His nearness, comfort, and strength, and, in His perfect time, His healing.

Jesus came to bear our griefs and carry our sorrows (Isaiah 53:4). He heals the brokenhearted and comforts those who mourn. As we walk with Him through life’s difficult experiences, our hearts are gently shaped into the likeness of Christ.

Over time, that inward transformation becomes visible. Our countenance, attitudes, and actions begin to reflect our Savior’s heart. The fruit of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22–23)—becomes increasingly evident in our lives. What a beautiful testimony to God’s work within us, bringing praise and honor to our Lord Jesus Christ.

Do you have this new heart that only God can give? If so, are you allowing the Holy Spirit to continue His transforming work in your life, in whatever way your loving Father sees fit? May we willingly place our hearts in His hands, trusting that He is faithfully making us more like His Son.

Quiet Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for not leaving me as I am. Help me to trust that You are at work, shaping my heart to become more like Jesus. Give me the grace to cling to You through every trial, finding comfort in Your presence and hope in Your promises. the fruit of Your Spirit grow in my life so that others may see the beauty of Christ in me.

In Jesus' name, Amen.

Steeped in God’s love, 🌸

Evelyn