October 13                                       Ezek 40 - 42

HIS FAVOURITE

MEMORISE: 'For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: For I have espoused you to one husband, that I may Present you as a chaste virgin to Christ.' (2 Cor 11:2)
READ: 1 Thessalonians 4:1-4

Sanctification means to be set apart for God and therefore separated from the devil. Let us take this illustration: when you rent a nightclub to hold a church service, you will first sanctify the place in the Name of Jesus Christ. For that period there will be no smoking or drinking, as everything done there should glorify Jesus.

Sanctification can be likened to the marital relationships of certain kings. Kings Solomon, for example, had about 1000 wives and concubines. Out of them all, he must have had at least one who was special to him and would always be at his side. This favorite wife is the sanctified, 'set apart' wife.

'For I am jealous over you with godly jealousy: for I have espoused you to one husband that I may present you as a chaste virgin to Christ' (2 Cor 11:2). Jesus Christ is our husband. He has very many brides to whom he will be married at the marriage supper of the lamb. Each of these virgins cannot all relate with him on the same level. Jesus has ordinary as well as special brides. As a favorite, you occupy an exalted position. When you speak, your word will be established, because Jesus will back you up.

In 2 Timothy 2:20-21, we are told that room is made for different types of vessels. What determines the kind of vessels they are and how much the owner will use them is their level of sanctification and consecration to God. Are you wholly devoted to the Master?

Jesus has several 'brides.' From among them he chose 70, whom he sent to represent him (Luke 10: 1). One day after praying, according to mark 3:13-14, Jesus appointed 12 to be his worthy companions. Beyond the 12, Jesus appointed three (mark 5:37) whom he took to special places. Yet he still had John relating closer to him than anyone else. To be an ordinary bride requires certain duties. To be a favorite bride requires many more. Which one do you choose? To be ordinary or special? This is determined by your level of sanctification.

ACTION POINT
In prayer, dedicate yourself to God in a new way.
Ask him to help you do what he asks of you.