Now if you obey me fully and keep my covenant, then out of all nations you will be my treasured possession. Although the whole earth is mine, you will be for me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. – Exodus 19:5-6 (NIV)
In Exodus 19:5–6, God speaks to the people of Israel at Mount Sinai. He tells them that if they obey His voice and keep His covenant, they will be His treasured possession. This shows how deeply God values His people.
God reminds them that the whole earth belongs to Him, yet He chooses them in a special way. Being “treasured” means they are precious and cared for. God’s choice is based on His love, not their perfection.
God also calls them a “kingdom of priests.” This means they were meant to represent God to others. Priests help people know God, and Israel was called to live in a way that showed God’s goodness to the world.
They were also called a “holy nation.” To be holy means to be set apart for God’s purposes. God wanted their lives to look different, shaped by trust, obedience, and faith.
Exodus 19:5–6 reminds us that God’s people are chosen with purpose. We are loved, valued, and called to reflect God’s character. As we listen to His voice and follow Him, our lives can point others toward the God who treasures His people.