Most Tenderhearted Lord, the Bible contains different pictures explaining Your relationship with Believers. You are an Apostle (one sent of God) to whom I should listen. My High Priest through whom I am able to come to Your Father. The Ruler of God’s Kingdom who I should obey. Each picture reveals more about Your nature and Your ministry. You are worthy of my honor and praise because You were not only human but You were God. As Moses led the people of Israel out of Egyptian bondage, so You have led me out of bondage to sin. You “once and for all” paid the penalty for my sins by Your sacrificial death. You became someone who I could count on. I have been released from sin’s dominion so I can commit myself fully to You … trusting You completely in all things. Because You live in me, I can remain courageous and steadfast under all circumstances.
The Old Testament served to prepare the way for Your coming. Knowing the Old Testament is the best foundation for understanding Your coming. In reading the Old Testament I am able to see … how people were used to accomplish Your plan and fulfill Your purposes … how God used events and people to illustrate important truths … how, through the Prophets, God revealed facts about Your coming … and how through the many sacrifices the people of Israel You helped us understand Your works here on earth. As I read the Old Testament, my understanding of the New Testament became clearer and more meaningful. For instance, in several places in the Bible You warn not to harden ones heart. This means stubbornly setting myself against You as many of the Jewish people did against You when You were judged and executed. I must take care to absorb the truths in Your Word and faithfully obey them.
Resting in You is critical to as abundant life. The importance of resting was made evident in the creation when You set aside the Sabbath as a day of rest. After toiling six days to create the world … even You set aside time to rest. When Israel went into the Promised Land, You promised them peace and rest. These are gifts given to those who maintain faith in You. As I remain faithful, I will be able to rest in peace regardless of what I am going through. I’ve been given a new heart, new desires and a reborn spirit to begin my new life. To not be lead astray, I must stay in fellowship with other Believers, read and meditate on Your Word regularly and remain attentive to the deceptiveness of sin. The children of Israel did not go into the Promised Land because they did not believe in Your promise of protection. I believe in it and know I can rest in Your peace. And it’s in Jesus’ name I pray. AMEN!!
Matthew 11:28 Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened. And I will give you rest.