Ezekiel 44
“When they enter the gates of the inner court, they shall wear linen garments. They shall have nothing of wool on them, while they minister at the gates of the inner court, and within. They shall have linen turbans on their heads, and linen undergarments around their waists. They shall not bind themselves with anything that causes sweat.” (Ezekiel 44:17–18, ESV)
God had specific rules for the priests who would serve in the sanctuary. They would draw near to the LORD, minister to Him, and keep His charge. They would also wear garments made of pure linen without any wool. Why would God be so particular about which fabric they wore? Linen has a natural “dry fit” quality. It is breathable, highly absorbent and dries fast. Wool, on the other hand, is a natural insulator. As the priests would work in the hot and dry climate of Israel, they would naturally perspire. But with body sweat comes body odor, and God didn’t want that emanating from the priests serving Him in the temple. Their job was literally to be “no sweat”.
Is there a lesson here for us? Some people want you to know how much they are striving in ministry. They are always anxious and seem to be carrying the world on their shoulders. Their labor seems to be a great burden that only they can carry! Rather than giving off the sweet fragrance of the grace, peace, truth and love of Jesus Christ, they give off a different odor. But Jesus said:
“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28–30, NKJV)
It is true that part of the curse is that “in the sweat of your face you shall eat bread till you return to the ground” (Genesis 3:19). We are called to work, and work is not always a casual stroll in the park. But I also see people striving in the flesh rather than walking in the Spirit. Often when there is little inspiration, there is much perspiration. But the reverse is also true. When there is much inspiration, there is little perspiration.
Jesus wants us to learn from Him. He knows that our souls need rest. In any difficulty, He has a way of life, peace and joy in the Spirit. Yes, that is the secret! We must learn to walk in the Spirit, relying upon Him and not on ourselves. Must we bear a yoke? O yes! God did not want the priests shirking their duties or passing them off to others. But neither does He want us huffing, puffing and sweating in the work of the ministry. His yoke is easy, and His burden is light.
“Heavenly Father, help us to serve you diligently today in the way of peace, love and joy. Forgive us when we have striven in our flesh rather than resting in the Spirit. Teach us to abide in Christ and joyfully bear the yoke He places on us. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.”