This time around...

Ezekiel 33-39 is about God's plans for Israel, with God Himself now in charge. After the fall of Jerusalem God explains how He will shepherd His people, breathe new life in them, and defend them from their enemies that surround them on all sides. This time destruction comes upon Israel's enemies rather than Israel, and the people are saved.

God is merciful and does not take pleasure in the death of the wicked. He loves His people and saves them for His own eternal glory.

"Behold, I make all things new (Revelation 21:5 NKJV)."

In Ezekiel 40-48 the people have a new home. A new temple, new city and new divisions of the land are vividly described as God delivers on His promise. The people are cleansed of the wickedness that characterized their history, and they are given new roles as well.

God has great things planned for those He has chosen. He is able to make us what He always wanted us to be and give us an eternal inheritance. Praise be to God!