By Rae Lynn DeAngelis
“They will rebuild the ancient ruins and restore the places long devastated; they will renew the ruined cities that have been devastated for generations.” (Isaiah 61:4)
Forest fires make headline news and leave behind a trail of unimaginable destruction. Trained firefighters work day and night to contain the raging monsters but wind and extremely dry conditions make their efforts seem futile.
Seasonal fires may ravage and destroy, but what takes place in the months and years that follow is truly amazing. Over time new life begins to emerge. Tiny green saplings struggle to the surface, feeding off of the nutrient-filled soil left from the wake of the fire. Ashes from the fire fertilize the ground, making it a catalyst for rich new growth.
Our difficult life experiences can make us feel like we’re standing in the middle of a forest fire. The heat and tension can be all consuming. Among the chaos and turmoil it is difficult to see how anything good could arise from the ashes, and yet that’s exactly what God does.
“….to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion—to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the Lord for the display of his splendor.” (Isaiah 61:2-3)
In His sovereignty, God uses the very ashes from the torched and torn fragments of our lives to foster rich, new growth. Difficulties strengthen our character, fortify our resolve, and enhance our capacity for compassion.
Nothing is wasted in God’s economy. He uses every bit of our ancient ruins to rebuild, restore, and renew that which was once devastated.
“For as the soil makes the sprout come up and a garden causes seeds to grow, so the Sovereign LORD will make righteousness and praise spring up before all nations.” (Isaiah 61:11)
