In the construct of God’s presence in the tabernacle (Exodus 25:20-21) we see

• the ark,
• the mercy seat, and
• the covering cherubs whose faces look to the mercy seat.

Rightly visualised, the base, the foundation contains the testimony – the laws defining the relationship of God and Israel (man). With the apt description laid out in Deuteronomy 4:7-38 noting particularly verse 8 which emphasises the laws as righteous, fair, reflecting God’s character and covenant with His people. It is this notion that sets the basis for the declaration in Psalm 89:14.

Justice and judgment are the habitation of thy throne: mercy and truth shall go before thy face. Psalm 89:14

The centrality of the Testimony to the nature and character of Yahweh Elohim must be acknowledged by all for guidance in the choices we make in life. They affirm that God’s rule is established on righteousness and justice, reflecting His perfect character and governance; and more, providing reference for guidance of any action or decision a man seeking to please God (Isaiah 8:20).

To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them. Isaiah 8:20 KJV

Look to God’s instructions and teachings! People who contradict his word are completely in the dark. Isaiah 8:20 NLT

Jesus declared the unending nature or permanence of the Testimony in Matthew 5:18, a refrain picked by Paul in Romans 7:12-14.

For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled. Matthew 5:18 

Wherefore the law is holy, and the commandment holy, and just, and good. Was then that which is good made death unto me? God forbid. But sin, that it might appear sin, working death in me by that which is good; that sin by the commandment might become exceeding sinful. For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin. Romans 7:12-14 

But still, the law itself is holy, and its commands are holy and right and good. But how can that be? Did the law, which is good, cause my death? Of course not! Sin used what was good to bring about my condemnation to death. So we can see how terrible sin really is. It uses God’s good commands for its own evil purposes. So the trouble is not with the law, for it is spiritual and good. The trouble is with me, for I am all too human, a slave to sin. Romans 7:12-14 NLT

If this were to be brought to bear on man whose obedience is vain, who would stand? Oh, but glory be to God. A full look at Psalm 89:14 sees it completion with the statement that “love and faithfulness” or “mercy and truth” complements the demands of the foundation. The grace defined by His “love and faithfulness” drove the act of John 3:16 making real the mystery of God’s love toward His creation.

This reality is affirmed in Romans 8:3-4 and 2 Corinthians 1:20 attests to the fulfilment of what was promised specifically in Ezekiel 11:19; Ezekiel 36:26; Jeremiah 31:33 and Hebrews 10:16-26. These fulfilled promises fill the void sin left after it was destroyed in the flesh and are then activated by the enabler in us, the Holy Spirit (John 14:16-17; 15:5,26; 16:7-14).

Familiarise yourself with His heart, pray earnestly for the daily presence of the Holy Spirit and depend on His guidance and empowerment (see Psalm 119:89-96; Philippians 2:13 and Hebrews 13:20-21). This prerequisite for change to conform with the image of His son is not negotiable. Selah.




Pastor Afolabi Oladele