“I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit in you; I will remove from you your heart of stone and give you a heart of flesh.”
Ezekiel 36:26
When I first met Charles, he was in his mid-60s and had spent more years behind bars than free. He had a very difficult time realizing he could be forgiven for committing yet another crime. However, God was working on his heart through prayer, Scripture, and books like Forgive and Forget. This book includes these powerful words: “To forgive is to set a prisoner free and discover that the prisoner was you” (Lewis Smedes, 1984).
Gradually, Charles did find forgiveness through Jesus. He also discovered that God was transforming his heart and placing a new spirit within him. God removed Charles’ stone heart and replaced it with a “heart of flesh.” Soon Ezekiel 36:26 became Charles’ favorite verse in the entire Bible. He no longer discriminated against others but developed a love for all people. He also began to serve on the inside council of the prison church.
Have you found forgiveness? Give your heart to the Lord and see how He transforms you into a forgiven person who is able to freely serve Him and others.
Gradually, Charles did find forgiveness through Jesus. He also discovered that God was transforming his heart and placing a new spirit within him. God removed Charles’ stone heart and replaced it with a “heart of flesh.” Soon Ezekiel 36:26 became Charles’ favorite verse in the entire Bible. He no longer discriminated against others but developed a love for all people. He also began to serve on the inside council of the prison church.
Have you found forgiveness? Give your heart to the Lord and see how He transforms you into a forgiven person who is able to freely serve Him and others.
Scripture Focus
Ezekiel 36:22-38
Insight
Pray for God to give you a new heart that beats faithfully for Him.
Bible In A Year
- Exodus 13-14
- Psalm 32
- Mark 12
