Ezk 37:3 And he said to me, " Son of man, can these bones live?" And I answered, "O Lord God, you know." (ESV)
In this chapter one impossible thing happens and one impossible thing is promised. Ezekiel watches as a battlefield covered with dry bones take on flesh and live again. In a vision Ezekiel sees God do the impossible. Then God promises the impossible. Judah and Israel will be reunited at a single, flourishing nation. That hasn't been true since Solomon. In fact, at the time Ezekiel is hearing this promise it doesn't seem likely that even a small part of Judah will ever "flourish" again. But with God the impossible is possible.
What impossible thing is God calling you to do? Reach an unreachable neighbor with the gospel? Face an impossible grief or loss? Heal an impossible rift in a relationship? Survive an impossible financial setback? God has not necessarily promised that the pain will go away, the neighbor will suddenly change, or money will suddenly flow your way. What he has promised is that he will never allow us to be tempted beyond what we are able to bear.
1 Corinthians 10:13 ESV
No temptation has overtaken you that is not common to man. God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it.
The impossible is possible with Christ, but the verses surrounding 1 Corinthians 10:13 are interesting. Verse 12 warns against pride. Verse 14 warns against idolatry. There is a whole sermon in those three verses, but for today it is enough to remember that in devoted humility there is the assurance that with God we can ride out the storm and he will provide the way of escape at just the right time.
Father, thank you for your grace, mercy and faithfulness. You are the god of the impossible, and in that I find hope. May I walk in humble, devoted dependence on you.
By His grace,
Rick Weinert
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