4,000 years ago in the Ancient East, the world was a dangerous place, full of sickness, plague, famine, and drought. Struggling humanity survived through the enactment of covenants, or permanent promises made between two tribes that combined their strengths, assets, and property. The idea was that when both groups came together, they were stronger, wealthier, and wiser than they were on their own. Such agreements were typically made during a ceremony wherein two tribes faced each other, sang songs, and performed sacrificial rites. The tribal chiefs would exchange coats as a sign of honor and then they would pace back and forth in the blood of slain animals reciting the oaths of loyalty they were making. Interestingly, it was in this tradition that God made a promise to Abraham and chose him to be the father of a new family — a tribe of people who would represent the values of Jehovah Himself. The Jews were set apart to model the heart of Yahweh — a God of mercy, compassion, love, and might. And in Genesis, the Lord and Abraham conducted their own covenant ceremony in which He affirmed, “I will be your God, and you will be My people.” Today, thousands of years later, you and I remain children of the Almighty bound by the same promise. If we proclaim Christ as our Lord, we’re in contract with our Heavenly Father and through the blood of His Son, we’re blessed with a wealth of divine comfort, power, and protection.

My friend, you are the Lord’s covenant bearer. In Him, you are guarded, empowered, and sustained, and you have access to the abundant resources of His Kingdom, in the Name of Jesus. Wherever you are weak, He is strong, and He promises to meet you in your lack with His overwhelming sufficiency. As you abide in His strength and receive nourishment from His Word, He multiplies everything that you have and gives you more. But this isn’t only for your sake — He fills your life with good things so you can share them. Live with open hands and an open heart, and the Holy Spirit will fashion from your faith an impact that far outlives you!