The beauty of the breastplate (3)

We learn from looking at the breastplate worn by Israel’s high priest that: a) we are precious to God; b) we are close to His heart; c) He will never turn His back on us. You say, ‘If God will never turn His back on us, does that mean we can live any way we please?’ No, and here’s why. As a redeemed child of God, not only are you precious in His eyes, but He is also precious in your eyes. So you will value your relationship with Him above all else and protect it from anything threatening. Question: When you realise how valuable and precious you are in God’s eyes, does that make you want to go out and sin or continue living in sin? Of course not! On the contrary, your thoughts will run more along the lines of: ‘This is not how a believer who is precious to the Lord behaves.’ A precious diamond doesn’t belong in sin's mud, grime, and filth. Its rightful place is close to the heart of God, where it sparkles and shines. Knowing your true, righteous, and precious-to-God identity in Christ elevates you above the desire to give in to sin. It makes you want to walk and live as a child of the King. Indeed, holy living results from seeing yourself as God sees you – ‘in Christ.’ Instead of giving in to temptation, you’ll ask yourself, ‘What would Jesus do in this situation?’ Then you’ll draw on His strength and do the right thing. A true understanding of God’s grace doesn’t prevent holiness; it produces it.

Prayer Point

Lord, I love You and want to follow Your will in every area of my life. I pray that my desire for companionship wouldn’t lead me to make bad choices or form relationships that could draw me away from You. In those moments when loneliness seems to be my driving force, help me remember that I’m Your precious child and that I can turn to You for comfort and companionship anytime. Even if I don’t always realise it, You never leave me. Thank You, Lord. Amen.