In his message at the 25th night of the Fasting Praise and Prayer Crusade, brother Theodore introduced another type of might that David manifested in building the nation of Israel, namely sanctuary might.
Reading from Psalm 33:12, brother Theodore explained that, to build every nation, it takes many victories, yet to build a spiritual nation it takes God, much God. Sanctuary might, Brother Theodore explained, is might that brings God, and sanctuary is a place where God dwells.
Moses was exceptional and unparalleled in bringing the people to God and bringing God to the people. He gave Israel the altar to reach God, and gave them the Tabernacle so that God can reach them. All the prophets, and leaders of Israel who came after Moses followed the path he traced, and so did David. However, David developed another vein to bring God to the people, it was praise. David showed the people that the holiness of God does not kill joy, that God can be enjoyed, he manifested his spiritual genius in developing sanctuary might. On the battle field, David manifested might so much that mighty men emerged. Similarly, David established worship of God so much that officials of the sanctuary and officials of God emerged as can be seen in 1Chronicles 24:5.
Brother therefore commented that if we are going to build the spiritual nation God asks of us we need sanctuary officials who will bring God. To give an illustration, Brother Theodore said that such sanctuary officials are to distinguish themselves in the domains that bring God, like the leaders of mighty men distinguished themselves by killing more enemies of God. Therefore, if prayer brings God, then sanctuary officials must pray more than men and women of prayer.
Brother Theodore explained further that there are sanctuary battles that are more consequential than field battles. One such example is the battle against Balaam who wanted to put a curse on Israel and, thus, annihilate the whole nation. The battle against Balaam was fought in the sanctuary using the seven altars Moses had built for Israel. The leader noted that enemies such as Balaam are handled in prayer rooms and prayer centres.
Brother Theodore highlighted again that David manifested his spiritual genius again by doing something radical: he built a tabernacle in his palace. By so doing, the leader added, he meant to create, in his palace, an environment that is similar to the Holy of Holies. And our leaders need to emulate him by including prayer centres in building their residences. Our churches as well should become sanctuaries, and to become sanctuaries there should be a culture to worship God by sacrificing to Him, by giving to God. Brother Theodore finally commented that the pastors that are not teaching their churches to give to God are not a blessing for them, they are depriving them from a relationship with God, from blessing.
DAILY PROCEEDINGS:
RECOMMENDED READING
- Disciples of the Jesus-Christ to make disciples for Jesus-Christ
- Personal Spiritual Revival
- The Ministry of Fasting
- Life-Changing Thoughts on Fasting (Vol 1)
- Practical Helps in Fasting Long Fasts
- Building a Spiritual Nation
