January 30, 2026

THE FINISHED WORK OF CHRIST

TODAY’S SCRIPTURE

“But now Jesus, our High Priest, has been given a ministry that is far superior to the old priesthood, for he is the one who mediates for us a far better covenant with God, based on better promises.” 

Hebrews 8:6 NLT

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TODAY’S THOUGHT

In Genesis 15, we see a striking image of a "Blood Covenant." In the ancient world, a covenant was the most serious contract two people could make. They would cut animals in half, shedding their blood, and lay the pieces on the ground. The two parties would then walk between the pieces, essentially saying, "If I break this contract, let what happened to these animals happen to me."

The Sleeping Partner

When God entered a covenant with Abraham, something unusual happened. Abraham didn't walk through the pieces; God put him into a deep sleep. Abraham watched as a "smoking firepot" (the presence of God) walked the covenant steps alone. (Genesis 15)

God totally initiated and fulfilled the covenant. He took responsibility for both sides.

From Animals to the Lamb

In Luke 22:20, Jesus declared a New Covenant. This one wouldn't be sealed with the blood of bulls or goats, but with His own blood. Just as with Abraham, man did nothing to "attain" this covenant. We don't earn it through rituals or perfections; we enter it simply through faith in the finished work of Jesus on the cross.

Our Heavenly Mediator

In the Old Covenant, priests were required to represent the people in a physical Temple. But in the New Covenant:

• Jesus is our High Priest: He isn't in an earthly building; He is in the presence of the Father.

• Jesus is our Mediator: He is currently talking to God about you and your needs.

• Jesus is our Guide: Through the Holy Spirit, He is talking to you, helping you understand God’s will.

The Daily Upgrade

Because this covenant is "far superior," our growth should be continuous. We aren't just following rules; we are growing in our understanding of God's Plans, Purposes, Power, and Provision. Your human mind can never fully exhaust all that God wants to do for you. Every morning is an opportunity to make a "better promise" from your Heavenly Father possible.

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TODAY’S PRAYER

Holy Spirit, make me sensitive to Your voice today. Help me to stop striving as if I am under the old law and start living in the freedom of the New Covenant. I want to grow in my understanding of the power and provision You have for me. I choose to trust the one who mediates for me today. Amen.

“Scroll down to share what you feel God is saying based on today’s reading.”