The Bible reveals how our perspective is shaped by comparison.

Rom 8:18-19 I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. 19 For the creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed. NIV

Verse 19 communicates how all creation is eagerly awaiting God’s sons and daughters to experience and express the love and the life of Christ in the earth. Our world becomes a better place when we discover God’s revealed purpose for our lives. Our homes, our marriages, our families, our workplaces, our neighborhoods all begin to flourish when we are awakened in this capacity.

The Holy of Holies, also known as the Most Holy Place, is the inner room of the Tabernacle where we find the Ark of the Covenant. This is the inner most place of intimacy with God. One priest only one time a year would go into this inner place to meet with God. Can you imagine being the chosen one to go into this place. Of all of God’s people and all of God’s leaders you would have the privilege of going into the inner most place of intimacy with God. Imagine what it would be like to be the person next in line for this honor but you weren’t chosen.

Every time Apple releases a new iPhone model millions of Americans are enticed to drop their current iPhones in order to upgrade to the latest technology. Strong consumer demand for the newest gadgets has also carried over into the automobile industry, where the latest tech-equipped cars entice people to trade in their current vehicles as well. Tech envy is alive and well as in the pursuit to attain the best possible features available.

A table is a place of true connection that holds a place of great significance in our lives. This is where family comes together to eat and to share in each other’s lives. Studies have been conducted demonstrating that children from families who eat together four or more times a week do better academically and emotionally. There is something sacred about the table that activates our lives on many levels.

The golden candlestick or menorah speaks of light and illumination, so it symbolizes divine understanding of the Word. As we mature in Grace and Truth we become able to see and apply God’s Word whenever and wherever it is needed. 

As we enter The Gate and accept forgiveness for our sins at the brazen altar we then come to the laver. As the priests came into the Tabernacle their feet would have been dusty. Their hands would have needed cleansing after their very bloody work. The Brazen Laver had two washing basins, one for the hands and one for the feet.

When two people go on their first date they enter into a process of revealing themselves slowly. Only the best is revealed first. Nobody gets right in to how desperately they want to get married or how they can’t seem to control their anger or other areas of weakness. The reason we do this is because there is something terrifying about being fully known. Yet there is something fascinating about being fully loved.

What kind of prayer and Bible reading structure works best for you? Some people prefer a very structured approach clearly communicating the progress of where they’ve been and the steps that are to come. Others prefer music, candles and just enjoying God’s presence rehearsing key verses that have meant so much to their lives over the years. 

What activates you? We can all think of that person in our lives that just knows how to push our buttons? Some of us have buttons that are easier to find than others but we all have the ability and the capacity to be activated. 

The helmet of the Roman soldier looked more like a piece of artwork than a helmet.  It was beautifully decorated with all kinds of engravings and etchings.  The helmet was made of bronze and was equipped with pieces of armor that were specifically designed to protect the entire head, back, sides and front.  

The Roman soldier actually had two shields. One was used in public ceremonies and parades. This was an attractive and ornate shield used for presentation and show but was never intended to be used for warfare. Paul is specifically referencing the battle shield in this text. 

We are warriors clothed in Christ with absolute confidence that we are right with God and in this we find peace.