Fri.’s Devo - Jesus Our Judge

Read Rev. 1:11-14 Jesus reiterates that he is the Alpha and Omega, the first and last. He instructs John to write everything he shows him in a book and send it to the seven churches in Asia, Ephesus, Smyrna, Pergamos, Thyatira, Sardis, Philadelphia, and Laodicea. When John turned to look in the direction of the voice, he saw seven golden candlesticks or lampstands . These were menorahs. A menorah is a stand with a central bowl with three branches on either side. Oil is poured into the middle bowl that runs through the branches to their bowls. This oil represents the Holy Sprit that must come from God. We are the branches that grow from the main vine. There were seven branches to represent the seven church ages. We fit in one of the branches. We receive our anointing from God alone. Zechariah saw the same vision in Zech. 4:1-6. Jesus was in the midst of the candlesticks clothed in a robe and a golden girdle around his shoulders. Jesus used to wear this girdle around his waist as our priest, but now he is wearing it over his shoulders like a judge does, because he is now playing the part of our judge. He has white hair which is a sign of his maturity, wisdom, and experience. Daniel prophesied the same in Daniel 7:9-14. Courts used to try to depict this as their judges wore robes, white wigs and their girdle over their shoulders. It was derived from this picture of Jesus, coming back to judge the earth. His eyes are a flame of fire that can burn up any false excuse or lie. I would think the way he looked would have brought anyone to their knees in repentance. His feet were like unto fine brass burning with fire. Brass is the very hard metal that can’t be tempered. This brass has stood the test of the fiery furnace of trials and temptation, yet without sinning. Jesus is qualified to be our judge. Lord, thank you for the reminder that one day you will come an judge the earth. Let us be filled with an awesome fear of you.