Reading for today
Old Testament: Exodus 26, 27, 28
New Testament: Matthew 26
Thoughts from today’s reading
Exodus 28:12, 29. This chapter describes the garments that the high priest was to wear as he went into the presence of God. All of the details given here help us to have a picture of what Christ does for us in heaven as our high priest.
The names of the 12 tribes of the children of Israel were put on two items of the garment. The first was the names put on precious stone and fitted to either shoulder of the garment. We know that prophet Isaiah mentioned that the government would be on His shoulders. The government are the 12 tribes of Israel in the Old Testament, and the church in the New Testament.
The other part of the garment where the names were written on precious stone was on the breastplate which was hung over the heart of the priest. Our names are ever before the Lord as He makes intercessions for us in the heavenly holy of holies.
Matthew 26:47-54. Jesus expects us to have the same mind that He had. Judas came to betray him, but Jesus allowed Judas to kiss him, and he even called him friend at the point that he was handing him over to the soldiers.
This is a hard thing to do when we know that people are against us to still be at peace with them. However, just before this, Jesus had agonised in prayer to submit to Gods will. When we submit to His will, we are guaranteed that all things will work together for our good, and our traitors or those who stand against us will cease to be the enemy, but they become an avenue to take us to where God has determined. Remember Joseph and his brothers.
Prayers
1. Thank you Father that you have given your church authority and you have placed the responsibility of the government upon us, we say let your kingdom come and let your will be done here on earth as it is in heaven.
2. Thank you Lord Jesus that my name is over your heart and you continually make mention of me to the Father in intercession as my heavenly high priest. I can therefore come boldly to the throne of God without fear to obtain help from the Father.
3. Father, I submit myself to your will in every area of my life. Show me what lies ahead of me that may be difficult to deal with, and grant me grace to bear it for your strength is made perfect in my weakness. May I continue to walk in love and forgiveness even to those that hurt me as I pursue your will for my life.