The Indelible Sign
For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh.
- Philippians 3:3
Covenant partners symbolized their pledge by cutting into their flesh, thus creating a scar. When God entered into covenant with Abraham, he instituted a different kind of symbol.
Abraham was told to circumcise every male in his household. Throughout the history of Israel, circumcision was the indelible sign of a covenant relationship with God.
The sign of the new covenant that Jesus instituted is the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. We are recognized by the sign and seal of the Holy Spirit within us (Acts 2:38). We are sealed with the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 1:13).
Determine to display all the fruits of the spirit: love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance (Galatians 5:22-23). The fruit of the Spirit is the very nature of Christ in you--the hope of glory (Colossians 1:27).
Boldly prepare to share the Gospel with those whom the Holy Spirit gives you the opportunity to share. As a Spirit-filled believer, allow your life to point to the Greater One. He must increase while you decrease (John 3:30).
Increase in my life, O Lord. Be thou my all in all. Shine through me with thy fire. Cleanse me with Thy blood. Make of my life a mirror reflecting Thy Glory. Amen.
Further Reading
- Philippians 3:3
- Acts 2:38
- Ephesians 1:13
- Colossians 1:27
