Have you ever felt like everything was hopeless and completely dead? There is a story in the Bible about the Valley of the Dry Bones in the book of Ezekiel. This isn’t just some old tale, this is a powerful message about God’s ability to bring life back to things that seem destined for death.
Ezekiel is drawn by God’s Spirit to a large valley filled with bones. The bones are not fresh, they are extremely dry and scattered all over the place, just as the people of Israel experienced when they were exiled from their homelands. Their hope was gone, they thought they were doomed. God asked Ezekiel if the bones could survive. Ezekiel answered, “You know better than we do.”
In order for Ezekiel to live, God instructs him to speak directly to the bones. He states, dry bones, hear my word; I will breathe life into you. As Ezekiel speaks, things begin to happen. As soon as Ezekiel speaks, the bones start connecting, bone to bone. Then the muscles and skin cover them, but without breath, so they appear to be dead. God then instructs Ezekiel to call upon the breath of the four winds. As the breath rushes in, they stand up as a large army.
In God’s words, these bones represent the entire nation of Israel, feeling buried and forgotten. However, God promises that he will bring them back to their land when he puts his own breath in them. There is a renewed emphasis on unity, a new beginning, and God’s big plan to make things right.
There is more to this vision. God shows two sticks, one for Judah, the other for Israel. Ezekiel joins them together into one stick, meaning God will bring the split families back together under one leader, and that peace will last forever. A better future, full of God’s presence in a special location, is outlined in this image.
Why does this matter today? Regardless of how difficult your situation is, God can handle it. This story reminds us that no matter what is going on, life can still come from nowhere. God is known for turning dry valleys into vibrant crowds. If you are in a dry place, speak God’s words, and look for the breath. Hope is more than a feeling; it is a promise from God.
I urge you to pick up a Bible and read Ezekiel 37 yourself. It is short, but it packs a powerful punch.
