Prisoner’s Garba

Prisoner’s Garba

“And she shall put the raiment of her captivity from off her, and shall remain in thine house, and bewail her father and her mother a full month: and after that thou shalt go in unto her, and be her husband, and she shall be thy wife.” (Deuteronomy 21:13 KJV)

The saying, “You are addressed the way you dress,” comes alive in this passage. Scripture shows us that certain garments carry meaning—garments can identify a person’s condition, their past, or even their bondage. In this verse, the woman is instructed to remove the raiment of her captivity—the clothing that marked her as a prisoner. Her change of garment symbolized a change of identity.

Throughout Scripture, we see this theme echoed:

The harlot’s attire in Proverbs 7:10 marks a life lacking discretion.

Joshua the high priest stands before the angel clothed in filthy garments until they are removed and replaced with clean clothes—an image of sin being taken away (Zechariah 3:4).

Blind Bartimaeus threw off his beggar’s cloak when Jesus called him, symbolizing his expectation for a new life (Mark 10:50).

Paul reminds us that believers are to “put on Christ,” clothing ourselves with His righteousness and character (Galatians 3:27).

As believers, Christ is our garment. When the world looks at us, they should see Him—His purity, His compassion, His strength, His holiness. The question then is: What are you wearing? Are you still dressed in the old raiment of your past, your sin, your shame, your old identity? Or have you put on Christ?

Reflection

Every garment tells a story—some speak of old habits and past bondage, while others speak of new life in Christ. God calls us to remove the raiment of our captivity and put on Christ. What “old garment” do you still need to lay aside so His life can be seen more clearly in you?

Prayer

Father, thank You for calling me out of captivity and clothing me with Christ. Help me lay aside every old garment that does not reflect You. Strip away every identity, habit, and mindset that keeps me bound. Dress me in Your righteousness, Your strength, and Your beauty. May those who see me see Jesus in me. Amen.

Have a fruitful day,
(Dr.) Emmanuel Okoro
(aka Dr. Lift)

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