Together - Daily DevotionalSample

New Covenant 

A covenant is a legally binding agreement that formalises a relationship of commitment specifying certain conditions and promises. The Bible records a series of covenants between two parties. Sometimes the covenant is between two people (groups) and sometimes between God and people. 

A covenant is similar to a contract but of much greater impact as where for example in a marriage covenant, two individuals attain a deep level of intimacy as they commit to share their resources in a common cause.  A covenant was often ratified during a special meal involving the sacrifice of an animal as its shed blood signified the death of two individuals now bonded into a new life of unity. Moses and the Israelites entered into such a covenant with God (Exod.24:1-8), as did David and Johnathan with each other (1 Sam.18:1-4). Just as Prince Johnathan exchanged his robe and resources with David, so Jesus has given us His robe of righteousness and gift of the Holy Spirit.

In a covenant ceremony a cup of wine might be shared to signify the deaths of the individuals as they became “blood brothers”.  Jesus has become our covenant blood brother as He exchanged His righteousness for our sinfulness! (Heb.9:11-28)

Prayer: I celebrate that my Great, Wonderful Saviour has made a binding covenant with little old me!