SCRIPTURE: Zechariah 3
OBSERVATION:
The high priest stands between God and the people. That being judged for sin (in the fire), he is plucked from the flames, given new, clean garments, and recommissioned as God’s ambassador. The accuser (Satan) is silenced. Even though guilty, God gives them another chance. The Branch and seven-eyed stone is symbolic of the Spirit-empowered messiah, Jesus, through whom the sin of the world is removed in a single day (i.e. the crucifixion).
APPLICATION:
I am like a branch plucked from the fire of judgment, forgiven and given a new commission, to be an ambassador for the highest priest, Jesus. I am a priest, I am to stand between the Lord and the people, pointing the way to Him. The accuser has nothing to say against me, for I am forgiven. I have the Spirit of Jesus in me.
What am I afraid of? Why do I hesitate to tell others about Jesus? Am I embarrassed? Am I listening to the accuser’s lies, or am I listening to the Lord’s promise? It boils down to faith, will I believe God or will I succumb to the power of the accuser, the deceiver?
PRAYER:
Lord, I admit that I am a reluctant believer. I want to believe, and to follow You, but I often hold back. Thank You for forgiving me and commissioning me for service. Empower me as a bold witness for You.
I stand accused before the Lord my God for He is a holy God. But all who are in Christ Jesus are plucked out of Satan’s grip and clothed in His righteousness. It is a gift of God – His grace. He cancels our sins and makes us fit for service. In the presence of our enemy, God gives His charge once again to His people. Do this and live. Walk in my ways and keep my Word.
As God was with Joshua, so too He is with me. I can do all things through Him who gives me strength. All I need to do is trust and obey. Help me to go forward in that renewed power and confidence on this the first day of the new school year. May others see You in me. All that I am I owe to Thee.
Jesus, all for Jesus,
All I am and have and ever hope to be.
Jesus, all for Jesus,
All I am and have and ever hope to be.
All of my ambitions, hopes and plans
I surrender these into Your hands.
All of my ambitions, hopes and plans
I surrender these into Your hands.
For it’s only in Your will that I am free,
For it’s only in Your will that I am free,
Jesus, all for Jesus,
All I am and have and ever hope to be.