Last week we had a look at the
Cherubim carvings on the panels of the carts carrying the water
basins. Today we will look at another carving that is on the
carts:
"And on the top of the cart,
its flanges and its panels were of the same casting. On the plates
of its flanges and on its panels he engraved cherubim, lions, and
palm trees, wherever there was a clear space on each, with wreaths
all around." 1 Kings 7:35, 36
Okay, so the cherubim and lions we
have covered in recent weeks. So today, let us have a look at the
significance of the palm tree engraving and what it means to us
today.
Palm trees are mentioned throughout
the Bible. First of all it represents an oasis in the desert. God
provided for the Israelites in their difficult time in the desert.
They were desperately thirsty and the Lord provided for them:
"Then they came to Elim, where
there were twelve wells of water and seventy palm trees; so they
camped there by the waters." Exodus 15:27.
Palm trees were therefore seen as a
symbol of God's provision. This was also depicted by the palm
leaves that were used during the Festival of Shelters, to build
shelters for them in order to remember God's victory in saving them
from the Egyptians (Leviticus 23:40). Interestingly Jericho, the
Israelites first victory in the Promised Land was called the city
of palms (Deuteronomy 34:3), again illustrating God's provision in
bringing about their victory. It was all Him, they simply had to be
obedient.
Then looking at the New Testament
we see the crowds waving palm branches when Jesus entered into
Jerusalem rejoicing in their King - John 12:12-15. This day became
known as Palm Sunday where we celebrate Jesus' triumphant entry
into Jerusalem and His victory over sin and reclaiming salvation
for us all.
In the book of Revelation we also
see saints waving palm branches:
"After these things I looked,
and behold, a great multitude which no one could number, of all
nations, tribes, peoples, and tongues, standing before the throne
and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, with palm branches
in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, saying,
"Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the
Lamb!" Revelation 7:9, 10
Again people exalt Jesus and bring
glory to Him waving palm branches. Thus the palm trees remind us of
God's victory and God's provision. God wants us to remember His
victory and give everything over to Him in our lives. We need to
trust Him for provision and for victory so that we can flourish.
Psalm 92:12 compares us to palm trees:
"The righteous shall flourish
like a palm tree."
Allow God to provide for you, be
obedient and follow Him, regardless of circumstances. Do not look
at the desert all around, but rather look UP and see the provision
coming your way. Then rejoice in His victory brought for you. Wave
your proverbial palm branch; give all glory to Him, our Savior and
King! Then see how you flourish. Not because you are great, but
because of what Jesus has done for you. He has opened up the way to
true life. Grab it by the horns and live life fully. Do not regret
anything in your life. Walk side by side with Him and see how
things change whilst doing your victory dance alongside Him. Lift
your palm branch up high and give glory to Him.
Father we praise You. You are our
Provider, You are our victory, You are our Leader and we want to
follow You day and night. You are so wonderful and amazing. We love
You. Amen