Rēad to Read …Again
Daily Reading: Hebrews 7-10
Hebrews 9:4
Which had the golden censer, and the ark of the covenant overlaid round about with gold, wherein was the golden pot that had manna, and Aaron's rod that budded, and the tables of the covenant;
The “ark of the covenant” has captured the imagination of scores of generations of Bible believers. In Hebrews the reader is reminded that the tabernacle, and the physical temple were temporary places of worship. Because of their limitations they, the tabernacle first, and soon the temple in Jerusalem (as of the writing of Hebrews), would (or actually already had been) replaced. Notice the change, But Christ being come an high priest of good things to come, by a greater and more perfect tabernacle, not made with hands, that is to say, not of this building; Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by his own blood he entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us. Hebrews 9:11-12.
The ark of the covenant rested in the tabernacle and then the temple. It had a storied life and is worthy of further study, but for a moment consider the contents of the ark.
A golden pot of manna. This represents the provision of God. Manna was supernaturally given by God to the Hebrews during the wilderness wanderings to satisfy their hunger. In Psalm 78:25 this manna is called “angel’s food.” Proving without a doubt that God can do that which the people asked just a few verses before that; He can provide a table in the wilderness. The Lord God will provide. Whatever it is that is needed, within the will of God, He will provide.
Aaron’s rod that budded. This represents the power of God. Jesus said in Matthew 28:18, …All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. He is, has, all power.
The tables of the covenant. This represents God’s promise. Within the pages of the New Testament the word “covenant” is used two dozen times. Twelve of those times are in Hebrews. The first usage of this word in this book is in connection with a bold statement, But now hath he obtained a more excellent ministry, by how much also he is the mediator of a better covenant, which was established upon better promises. Hebrews 8:6
Remember, the lives of the Hebrews were about to be forever altered. In just a few years the beloved city would be ravished by the Romans (70 A.D.). God is reminding them, in this book, of His provision, power, and promise. To those who received it, this book would have been a great help in those tumultuous times.
So, too today you have the same reminder. True, no longer does the ark of the covenant reside in a temple made with hands, but rather in a child of God. 1 John 4:13 proves this; Hereby know we that we dwell in him, and he in us, because he hath given us of his Spirit.
When you need provision, power, or His promises, they will be present, ready for the need at hand. This is part of the better covenant, based upon better promises through Christ to all who believe.
Dr. William T. Howe
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