Substitute

¹Now the main point of what we are saying is this: We do have such a high priest, who sat down at the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heaven, ² and who serves in the sanctuary, the true tabernacle set up by the Lord, not by a mere human being.

⁵ They serve at a sanctuary that is a copy and shadow of what is in heaven. This is why Moses was warned when he was about to build the tabernacle: “See to it that you make everything according to the pattern shown you on the mountain.” ⁶ But in fact the ministry Jesus has received is as superior to theirs as the covenant of which he is mediator is superior to the old one, since the new covenant is established on better promises.

The book of Hebrews tells us how Jesus is greater than all the other religious figures from priests to angels to venerated ancestors.  Now in chapter 8 the author is comparing how the high holy places are even just a shadow of something greater. We mere human beings have a tendency to substitute lesser things. These lesser things are often good things but put in the wrong position, harm us instead of help us. It could be a relationship that has been esteemed over your relationship with God; an accomplishment or pursuit over knowing our worth in God’s eyes; money or a job over trusting that God provides; or a busy schedule over rest in God’s presence. These could all be really wonderful things but when we elevate their importance over God’s rightful place in our hearts and lives and priority, they will only distract us and hinder us from what we really need, which is Jesus. Take the world but give me Jesus!

I’ve done this many times in my life, sometimes without even realizing and sometimes fully realizing that I am only substituting God. At best, they are only a shadow of what God has in store for me. What are the lesser things in your life that need to be put in their place? 

-Natalie

Take the World, But Give Me Jesus – Fanny Crosby

Take the world, but give me Jesus,

All its joys are but a name;

But His love abideth ever,

Through eternal years the same.

Oh, the height and depth of mercy!

Oh, the length and breadth of love!

Oh, the fullness of redemption,

Pledge of endless life above!

Take the world, but give me Jesus,

Sweetest comfort of my soul;

With my Savior watching o’er me,

I can sing though billows roll.

Take the world, but give me Jesus,

Let me view His constant smile;

Then throughout my pilgrim journey

Light will cheer me all the while.

Take the world, but give me Jesus.

In His cross my trust shall be,

Till, with clearer, brighter vision,

Face to face my Lord I see.