Exodus 28:15
““You shall make a breastplate of judgment, the work of the skillful workman; like the work of the ephod you shall make it; of gold, of blue, and purple, and scarlet, and fine twined linen, you shall make it.”
What does Exodus 28:15 mean?
God is instructing Moses on how to craft the high priest's breastplate, a sacred garment worn over the heart during worship. This wasn't decorative; it held the Urim and Thummim (objects used to discern God's will), making it literally a tool for seeking divine guidance and justice. The materials—gold, blue, purple, scarlet, and fine linen—were the most precious and beautiful available, signaling that seeking God's direction deserved the finest craftsmanship and care. What makes this meaningful for us today is the deeper principle: when we approach God seeking wisdom or discernment, especially in difficult decisions, we're invited to bring our whole selves thoughtfully and sincerely. The breastplate worn close to the heart reminds us that judgment and justice aren't cold intellectual exercises, but matters that touch us deeply and should draw us closer to God.