Habakkuk 3:3a-4 His glory covered the heavens, and the earth was full of His praise. His splendor was like the sunrise; rays flashed from His hand, where His power was hidden.
Astronomers say that the earth is in the “Sun’s Habitable Zone” – meaning it is not too close and not too far. If the earth moves any closer the excessive heat will destroy life and if it moves away, the earth will freeze. So, as much as the sun’s rays are absolutely essential for life to thrive on the earth, we cannot move any closer or further away from the sun. We must live in the habitable zone.
The Sun’s Habitable Zone is another astounding analogy of the splendor and the grandeur of God. In our mortal bodies we cannot go any closer to the sun. Similarly, with the carnal mindset of anger, animosity and antagonism we cannot go close to the presence of the Lord. We can enter the Holy of Holies only in our spirit not with our flesh. The flesh and carnal desires have to die for us to get closer and closer to the Lord. This is why the High Priest entered the Holy of Holies with fear and trembling with blood and purity. If not, he would die in the presence of the Holy God (Leviticus 16:2).
In about 1024 BC, Israel lost the battle and ‘The Ark of the Covenant’ was captured by the Philistines. The Ark of the Covenant symbolically represented the presence of God and the uncircumcised Philistines who treated it with contempt were severely chastised. The Lord’s hand was heavy on the people of Ashdod and its vicinity; he brought devastation on them and afflicted them with tumors (1 Samuel 5:6). They got too close to the sun and were fried!
To have intimacy with a holy God carnality and worldliness must die.
Hidden Power:
- Holiness: Carnal mentality such as pride, physical appetite and perversion are hindrances that block our intimacy with Christ.
- Humility: Humility will kill envy, selfish ambitions and ego.
- Honesty: Truthfulness and purity in thoughts, words and action will eradicate the fleshly desires and draw us close to God’s presence.
Those who worship Him in spirit and truth are hidden in His hand.
Prayer: Holy God, I will put on holiness, humility and honesty to dwell in your presence. Amen.
Leave a Reply