Nougat 30

I so love seeing God’s promises! They assure me that we are on God’s radar, and God’s plans include us. Consider today’s Holy Mount

““But when this happens, says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, I will honor you, Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel, my servant. I will make you like a signet ring on my finger, says the Lord, for I have chosen you. I, the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, have spoken!”” ‭‭Haggai‬ ‭2‬:‭23‬ ‭NLT‬‬

Firstly we note the title used in relation to God: Lord of Hosts (Heaven’s Armies). We are covered by the Master Military Strategist: there’s none more skilled in ensuring that we are in the right place at the right time. Whatever we face, wherever we go, even when we stray – God’s got a plan for us and is ready to find us and situate us. Moreover, as Lord (ruler) of all Heaven’s military; the entire angelic contingent answers to God. They are at God’s disposal, sometimes on our behalf! (Yes indeed as the songwriter says ‘God have we back!’)

A signet was the seal of a military or religious religious officer, indicating the veracity and authority of the written message. As God’s signet, we therefore have become the proof that God’s promises to friends and foes alike. I am reminded of Matthew 28:18, when Jesus stated that God’s power and authority has been vested to Him, just before sending the disciples to receive the mantle of that same authority. As God’s chosen, we are not only comforted by God’s capacity to protect us; but we are also the visible signs of God’s authority and might.

While the signet was not the commander in chief, it was imprinted on all official documents; and often affirmed the authenticity of the signature or the information provided. We are not only God’s messengers to a broken world; we are the testimony that God does exist and God’s Word is sure.

That’s a bit scary at times as it means we are always on ‘public display’ to the world (and I for one don’t always feel like my life accurately reflects the truth of God’s Word). But it also reminds us that there is a world that is greatly in need of the reassurance that comes only from the Lord of Heaven’s armies that it will be well. In fact, despite how things look now, it already is well!

If at all we’re feeling like we are not quite as clear a seal on God’s message to a broken and hurting world, this may be the time to ask God for quick repairs so that our impact will continue to be transformative for others.

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May all we seek be found in Christ