S) "25 I will make a covenant of peace with them and eliminate harmful beasts from the land so that they may live securely in the wilderness and sleep in the woods."
Ezekiel 34:25 (NASB)
O) Just like any verse in the Bible, it is important that this is not read out of context. For the purpose of this journaling, I am only highlighting this one verse because, well, it was the highlight for me. But, this verse comes in the midst of God's declaration of restoration for His faithful people - specifically after establishing His shepherd over his people again (v.23). That is foreshadowing the coming of Jesus. The message continues to the end of the chapter, to tell of the many blessings God will restore, but this one stood out as a good reminder that the LORD is God of all creation, not just the God of people.
A) Camping time! But in seriousness, this verse is a specific blessing to specific people at a specific time - God has not eliminated harmful beasts from Bothell, WA - but He could. Most specifically, I may live securely- anywhere- according to His will. The beauty of becoming a child of God, is that the dangers, and even real pain, that He allows in my life are going to be for my good. His will might very well be for me to suffer from natural dangers, but if that's the case (whether for discipline or glorifying Him), I am assured that it is for my good in the end. I will continue to ask for safety and security (especially when traveling/camping), but I will acknowledge that if that's outside of His will, then that means He must have a better plan in mind; He must have a bigger purpose.
P) Father, You have made me to dwell safely thus far. In my life, I don't encounter many physical dangers (certainly not dangerous beasts), but I don't know that will always be the case. I do know, that You are the same God who closed the lions mouths for Daniel, made a large fish swallow Jonah, but not consume him. You made ravens feed Elijah, and Paul was not harmed by a snake's bite. You are sovereign over all that You have created. I am humbled and thankful. Please continue to protect me, but not according to my will; only Your will be done. Be glorified in my life, whether or not wild beasts ever cause me harm. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.
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