They shall be mine: I am the LORD. Numbers 3:13
I continue my study of Numbers, and in the text today 3:11-13, where the Lord speaks to Moses and shares how the Levites are His. Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.
- What do we learn from the text about God?: The text describes how the Levites, among all the tribes in Israel, were taken by God to be His representatives to Him and they were His possession (vv12-13). As with all scripture, this text points to Jesus and how with His shed blood, all believers (all of Creation) are a "chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light" (1 Peter 2:9). God wants us to draw near to Him, personally, and not let anything or anyone stand in our way - He is our #1 priority.
- What do we learn from the text about people?: The Levites, and ultimately all believers, were chosen from among the people to serve in the priesthood and they belong to God. When you belong to God, you are designed to serve His will, for His glory.
- Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Avoid thinking that you exist to serve self or anything/anyone above God. Claim the promise that, as a believer, you were purchased by His blood for a price, and you are a royal priesthood called out of darkness into His marvelous light. Follow the example of the Levites and proclaim the excellencies of Him.
My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves. I am not deserving of how You love and save. My sin is great and it continues...daily. Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin towards You. Help me love You with all of my heart, soul, and mind and love others as You love me. Help me grow in my faith. Give Lisa and myself wisdom and strength. Please continue to heal Lisa of her cancer and from the side effects of chemo. Help us lead Zach and Dustin to You Jesus and for them to choose You as their Lord and Savior. Please provide Godly friends and spouses to Zach and Dustin. Help me serve You, my family, my church, and others. Help me understand, be obedient to, and apply Your message for me today and every day.
