Moses spoke to the LORD, saying, “Let the LORD, the God of the spirits of all flesh, appoint a man over the congregation who shall go out before them and come in before them, who shall lead them out and bring them in, that the congregation of the LORD may not be as sheep that have no shepherd.”

 Numbers 26-27

Moses spoke to the LORD, saying, “Let the LORD, the God of the spirits of all flesh, appoint a man over the congregation who shall go out before them and come in before them, who shall lead them out and bring them in, that the congregation of the LORD may not be as sheep that have no shepherd.” Numbers 27:15-17

I continue my study of Numbers, and in the text today - Numbers 26-27 - God prepares Israel to enter the Promised Land as He instructs Moses to take a census, and He commissions Joshua to be the new leader of the people. Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.

• What do we learn from the text about God?: God is faithful - back in Numbers 14:28-35, God promised to punish the entire first generation of Israel who did not trust God or rebelled against Him - the punishment will be that they not enter the Promised Land.  Here in the text today, this promise is kept - see Numbers 26:63-65.  This may not be the faithfulness one seeks - a promise to condemn of punish - but it is a promise nonetheless and we should be mindful that if God shares that man will be punished or condemned, this is not an idle threat - it is a promise.  God responds to   the pleas (prayers) of His people.  In Numbers 27:1-11, we see the plight of the daughters of Zelophehad, who are not going to get an inheritance of land in the Promised Land, yet the daughters took their plea to Moses who interceded on their behalf.  God answers their prayer and He seeks for all believers to bring their cares and concerns to Him - see also 1 Peter 5:7.  God hears our cries and responds to us - the response may not be what we seek, but He does respond and He does provide, comfort, encourage, etc. God's promise (Numbers 20:12) that Moses will not enter the Promised Land is also fulfilled here - Numbers 27:13-14.  God chooses and prepares Joshua to lead the people into the Promised Land.         
• What do we learn from the text about people?:  Moses does not quarrel with God about his punishment - that he will not enter the promised land.  His concern once again is for the people - what an incredible response of humility.  Moses surrenders his life to God's will.   
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Claim the promise that God is faithful in all things - 2 Corinthians 1:20.  Follow the example of Moses, who in humility and obedience, surrender to the will of God and trusted Him.     

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves.  Thank You Jesus!  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.

And the LORD said to Moses, “Phinehas the son of Eleazar, son of Aaron the priest, has turned back my wrath from the people of Israel, in that he was jealous with my jealousy among them, so that I did not consume the people of Israel in my jealousy. Therefore say, ‘Behold, I give to him my covenant of peace, and it shall be to him and to his descendants after him the covenant of a perpetual priesthood, because he was jealous for his God and made atonement for the people of Israel.’"

 Numbers 25:1-18

And the LORD said to Moses, “Phinehas the son of Eleazar, son of Aaron the priest, has turned back my wrath from the people of Israel, in that he was jealous with my jealousy among them, so that I did not consume the people of Israel in my jealousy. Therefore say, ‘Behold, I give to him my covenant of peace, and it shall be to him and to his descendants after him the covenant of a perpetual priesthood, because he was jealous for his God and made atonement for the people of Israel.’" Numbers 25:10-13

I continue my study of Numbers, and in the text today - Numbers 25:1-18 - we see Israel yoke itself to Baal, God's response of rage and punishment, and God's recognition of Phineas for his zeal in the name of the LORD. Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.

• What do we learn from the text about God?: God is a jealous God - jealous for His name and His glory alone.  Yet we see Israel worshiping Baal and God responds with righteous anger and jealousy to restore His Name and punish those who break the commandments to love Him and to not have any other gods before Him.  The LORD instructs Moses to kill those who yoke themselves to Baal (vv4-5). God's anger burns and 24,000 of the people are killed.  God also recognizes Phineas for his efforts to restore God's name and punish those who followed Baal (vv7-8, 10-13).  God seeks for believers to confront sin within the church (see also Matthew 18:15-17). God gives Phineas His "covenant of peace" (v12).  God offers believers this same covenant of peace (see also John 14:27 and Colossians 3:15).  
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Israel has yet to arrive in the Promised Land and on their journey through the wilderness, they yoke themselves to pagan gods.  God's people are called to go to all nations to proclaim the gospel (Matthew 28:19-20), yet we are not to become of the world in that we allow earthly sinful influences that drive a wedge between us and God - see also John 15:19, 17:14-16, and Romans 12:2).
• 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 being overcome by the influences of this world such that you become yoked to other gods.  Claim the promise that Jesus Christ alone offers salvation and a peace that surpasses understanding.  Follow the example of Phineas who had zeal and jealousy for God's name and glory.  Love God with all of Your heart, soul, and mind - seek Him (Jeremiah 29:13). 

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who saves and who gives peace - a peace that surpasses understanding. Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such blessings.  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 energy.  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.

I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not near: a star shall come out of Jacob, and a scepter shall rise out of Israel; it shall crush the forehead of Moab and break down all the sons of Sheth.

 Numbers 24:14-25

I see him, but not now; I behold him, but not near: a star shall come out of Jacob, and a scepter shall rise out of Israel; it shall crush the forehead of Moab and break down all the sons of Sheth. Numbers 24:17

I continue my study of Numbers, and in the text today - Numbers 24:14-25 - we see Balaam's final prophecy, one of curses of Israel's neighbors and adversaries, and one of the coming Messiah.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.

• What do we learn from the text about God?: God opens eyes, allows ears to hear and gives knowledge - He alone is the one who softens hearts, inclines ears, and opens eyes to understand God's Word and His will - vv15-16.  Just as God worked through Pharaoh in Egypt, God alone hardens and softens hearts as He works through Balaam the pagan prophet.  God's Word in vv17-24 will be fulfilled as Israel destroys and/or subdues its neighbors and adversaries.  Once again, we must recognize how God is sovereign over all of Creation.  Balaam's prophecy includes a coming Messiah in v17 - star and a scepter.    
• What do we learn from the text about people?: We must see how God works through all of creation, including through pagan prophets such as Balaam, to deliver His message and work His will.  God often works unexpectedly to get our attention, so we should be careful to perceive how He is in all things at all times.  He is in control. Both Balaam and Balak accept God's word. 
• 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 contradicting God's explicit will - His plan will not be thwarted.  Claim the promise of how God alone softens and hardens hearts - He is in control and sovereign over all Creation.  Follow the example of Joshua and Caleb who saw God is on their side - seek Him and allow Him to be your strength and refuge to overcome Satan, sin and death.  Trust God and seek Him. 

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves.  You alone saved me - nothing I did earned me grace.  Thank You Jesus!  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.

And Balaam said to Balak, “Did I not tell your messengers whom you sent to me, ‘If Balak should give me his house full of silver and gold, I would not be able to go beyond the word of the LORD, to do either good or bad of my own will.

 Numbers 24:12-13

And Balaam said to Balak, “Did I not tell your messengers whom you sent to me, ‘If Balak should give me his house full of silver and gold, I would not be able to go beyond the word of the LORD, to do either good or bad of my own will. Numbers 24:12-13

I continue my study of Numbers, and in the text today - Numbers 24:12-13 - we see how God continues to work and speak through Balaam the pagan prophet, and Balak's rage because "it pleased the LORD to bless Israel."  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.

• What do we learn from the text about God?: God works through all of creation as He is the Creator - see also Colossians 1:15-17.  This includes working and speaking through the pagan prophet Balaam who was hired by Balak to curse Israel as they sought to inhabit the land currently occupied by the Amorites - see Numbers 22.  The Spirit of God (the Holy Spirit) appeared to Balaam in the wilderness and spoke through Balaam in vv3-9 sharing how God loves Israel, how He sees her as beautiful, treasured, blessed, powerful, and how she will overcome her adversaries. 
• What do we learn from the text about people?: In vv10-11, we see Balak enraged over Balaam's discourse, yet Balaam, in vv12-13, reinforces (see also Numbers 22:18) how he is clear that God's word is more valuable than any amount of silver or gold Balak could give him.  This is a message all believers should heed - that we find God and His Word more valuable than any treasure on earth.  See also Psalm 19:10, 119:72, Proverbs 8:10.  Don't also miss how Balaam shares how we should not add to or subtract from God's Word - he will not "go beyond the Word of the LORD", an explicit exhortation not to twist God's Word to suit our own desires or will.  
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Don't twist God's Word to suit your own desires or will.  Claim the promise that God's Word (and Himself) is more valuable than any earthly treasure.  Follow the example of the psalmists, David, and Solomon, who valued God more than anything.  Seek God first (and you will find Him - Jeremiah 29:13). 

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves.  Your Word is of infinite value and more valuable than any earthly treasure.  And You save!  Thank You Jesus!  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 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.

God is not man, that he should lie,or a son of man, that he should change his mind. Has he said, and will he not do it? Or has he spoken, and will he not fulfill it?

 Numbers 23:13-30

God is not man, that he should lie,or a son of man, that he should change his mind. Has he said, and will he not do it? Or has he spoken, and will he not fulfill it? Numbers 23:19

I continue my study of Numbers, and in the text today - Numbers 23:13-30 -  we see an obstinate Balak who is determined to curse Israel, despite God's will that they be blessed.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.

• What do we learn from the text about God?: God once again makes Himself and His will clear.  He will not curse Israel.  In doing so, He also reveals part of His nature - that He does not lie (He is Truth) and when He makes a promise, He fulfills His promises. God also uses both believers and non-believers such as Balaam - a pagan prophet - and He works through them in both words and deeds to accomplish His will. And once again, we must understand that God's will is not to be thwarted.  
• What do we learn from the text about people?: As I posted yesterday, Balak does not like God's word spoken through Balaam so he pushes his will, even though it is contrary to God's will.  See v13 where Balak continues to push Balaam to curse Israel.  Balak is not as wise as Solomon who shared in Proverbs 19:21 "[m]any are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the LORD that will stand." In vv25-30, Balak, continues to disregard God's will and in chapter 24 (for Saturday) we will God's reaction.
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Do NOT blatantly and repeatedly disregard God's will.  Claim the promise that God's Truth is eternal, it never changes, and God does not lie - we can rest in His Word and His promises.  Follow the example of Balaam who finally recognizes that He must follow God's will and desires. Understand God's will (Romans 12:2) and pray for obedience and that God make it not burdensome because You love Him and You want to follow His desires because of how good He is. 

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves.  Your Truth is eternal, You never lie, nor change Your mind, and we can rest in Your Word and promises.  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of how You save and how You are faithful.  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.  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.

And Balak said to Balaam, “What have you done to me? I took you to curse my enemies, and behold, you have done nothing but bless them.” And he answered and said, “Must I not take care to speak what the LORD puts in my mouth?

Numbers 23

And Balak said to Balaam, “What have you done to me? I took you to curse my enemies, and behold, you have done nothing but bless them.” And he answered and said, “Must I not take care to speak what the LORD puts in my mouth? Numbers 23:1-12

I continue my study of Numbers, and in the text today - Numbers 23:1-12 - we see Balaam carefully taking a cue from God regarding what He should say, yet Balak does not like the message delivered by his hired pagan prophet through whom God speaks.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.

• What do we learn from the text about God?: God truth is eternal.  He made a promise to Abraham that his nation (Israel) would be blessed, and we know from scripture that God's truth is eternal because He reigns over all (has the capacity to deliver on His promises), and all of His promises are kept (2 Corinthians 1:20).  We can rest in God's Word and His promises.  
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Balak does not like God's Word and when people like Balak are challenged with Truth, they often seek their own will and unfortunately God's will is not to be thwarted.  Similarly, we should not be afraid to proclaim Truth.  Peter and John, in the face of arrest and persecution for boldly sharing the gospel after Pentecost, exclaim "we cannot but speak of what we have seen and heard (Acts 4:20)."  
• 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 denying Truth and seeking your own will counter to God's explicit desires and commands.  Claim the promise that God is faithful and His Word is eternal.  Follow the example of Peter and John who boldly proclaim the gospel.  Share the gospel. 

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves and who is faithful.  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving how You are faithful nor 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.

Then the LORD opened the eyes of Balaam, and he saw the angel of the LORD standing in the way, with his drawn sword in his hand. And he bowed down and fell on his face. And the angel of the LORD said to him, “Why have you struck your donkey these three times? Behold, I have come out to oppose you because your way is perverse before me.

Numbers 22

Then the LORD opened the eyes of Balaam, and he saw the angel of the LORD standing in the way, with his drawn sword in his hand. And he bowed down and fell on his face. And the angel of the LORD said to him, “Why have you struck your donkey these three times? Behold, I have come out to oppose you because your way is perverse before me. Numbers 22:31-32

I continue my study of Numbers, and in the text today - Numbers 22 - we see one of the more odd passages of scripture where God works through a donkey to deliver His message to the pagan prophet Balaam, who was hired by king Balak to curse Israel.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.

• What do we learn from the text about God?: In v12, God is clear to Balaam that Israel is blessed and that Balak’s desire to curse Israel will not be allowed.  We must understand that once we know God’s will, nothing we can do will thwart God’s will.  To emphasize that God is at work in chapter 22, we see God refer to His will as “angel of the LORD” ten times in the text. It rarely is clearer that God is at work – when we see God at work so clearly, we must pay attention – perhaps there are distractions that blind us.  In fact, we see Balaam disobey God in v21 and leave on his own accord.  In v22, God shows his anger for this disobedience, and in vv23-30 we see God work through an angel of the Lord and Balaam’s donkey to prevent movement.  God even goes to the extent of speaking through the donkey to be clear to Balaam.  This apparently was not enough for God to get his message (and will) across to Balaam.  So in vv31-35, we see God open the eyes of Balaam so that there is no question that God does not want Balaam to pass. In v33, we see God’s great mercy as He shares that Balaam deserved to die (as we all do as we all sin and the wages of sin are death – Romans 3:23, 1 John 1:8, Romans 6:23). 
• What do we learn from the text about people?: God’s will is pervasive in scripture, including the ten commandments (Exodus 20), and the most important of these commandments – to love God, and to love others (Matthew 22:34-40).  When we understand God’s will in our lives, we better be sure to follow His will.  When we willingly controvert His will, be prepared for harsh punishment – God will do what it takes to get your attention.  When you don’t have clarity regarding God’s will, saturate yourself in the word – see Romans 12:2 where Paul encourages us to be transformed by the renewing of the mind “that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”  Study God’s Word, wrestle with it, pray for wisdom (as Solomon did in 1 Kings 3:9), and practice spiritual disciplines (corporate worship, fellowship with other believers, etc.).
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): If God’s will is clear, do not willfully disobey Him!  Claim the promise that renewal of the mind will help you understand God’s will.  Follow the example of Solomon who asked God for wisdom.  Love God – and if you love God obedience to God’s commands are not burdensome (1 John 5:3).

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves, saves, and is full of mercy that never ceases, providing new mercies every morning.  I am not deserving of Your mercies nor my salvation.  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.

But the LORD said to Moses, “Do not fear him, for I have given [Og, king of Bashan] into your hand, and all his people, and his land. And you shall do to him as you did to Sihon king of the Amorites, who lived at Heshbon.” So they defeated him and his sons and all his people, until he had no survivor left. And they possessed his land.

Numbers 21:21-35

But the LORD said to Moses, “Do not fear him, for I have given [Og, king of Bashan] into your hand, and all his people, and his land. And you shall do to him as you did to Sihon king of the Amorites, who lived at Heshbon.” So they defeated him and his sons and all his people, until he had no survivor left. And they possessed his land. Numbers 21:34-35

I continue my study of Numbers, and in the text today - Numbers 21:21-35 - God leads Israel into battle, as they defeat the armies of King Sihon and Og.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.

• What do we learn from the text about God?: God is faithful (going all the way back to Genesis 15:18-21).  He rescued Israel from bondage in Egypt and directed Israel from the wilderness to the Promised Land and used Joshua and Caleb (see Numbers 14:6-9) to give confidence to the people that they should not fear the existing inhabitants - God is with them.  The text is once again explicit sharing how God spoke to Moses (and Israel) and told them not to fear Sihon, Og, and their armies.  God is more powerful than any earthly power and if it is His will to destroy them - He will.  For believers, Ephesians 6:12 clarifies how we are not [only] fighting against "flesh and blood, but against but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places."  We are directed to put on the "whole armor of God," which includes scripture, the Holy Spirit, etc.  Ultimately, we can take comfort knowing that He is saving a place for us in Heaven and the victory over sin and death is already won and our salvation is assured.          
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Since the Fall (Genesis 3), when sin entered the world, we experience violence, fear, sickness, death, etc.  We should not fear as Israel did in Numbers 14:10 when they sought to stone Joshua and Caleb for their confidence in the LORD.  We should bring our cares and concerns to the LORD (1 Peter 5:7).     
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Do not fear. Claim the promise that victory over sin and death is already won and salvation assured.  Follow the example of Joshua and Caleb who saw how God is with them and were confident.  Trust in God, and rest in how He is our strength and refuge.

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves, and You are my strength and refuge!  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of how You love and save.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me 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.

And from there they continued to Beer; that is the well of which the LORD said to Moses, “Gather the people together, so that I may give them water.” Then Israel sang this song: “Spring up, O well!—Sing to it!— the well that the princes made, that the nobles of the people dug, with the scepter and with their staffs.”

Numbers 21:10-20

And from there they continued to Beer; that is the well of which the LORD said to Moses, “Gather the people together, so that I may give them water.” Then Israel sang this song: “Spring up, O well!—Sing to it!— the well that the princes made, that the nobles of the people dug, with the scepter and with their staffs.” Numbers 21:16-18

I continue my study of Numbers, and in the text today - Numbers 21:10-20 - God provides water and the people sing joyfully in response.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.

• What do we learn from the text about God?: God is with us, He directs our steps (with Israel He guides as a cloud by day and a fire by night (Exodus 13:21), and He provides.  The wilderness is a desolate and difficult place - yet Israel find themselves in a place in v16 called Beer, which in Hebrews translates simply to a "well."  God provides water here.
• What do we learn from the text about people?: The people respond in song, in essence, worshiping God.  This is a wholly appropriate response to God, who He is and how He provides.  Note also how God seeks for Moses to "[g]ather the people together[.]"  God seeks for His people to worship together. 
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): When we are in a spiritual wilderness, we should not worry, grumble and complain as Israel has been doing (see text from post yesterday).  We should claim the promise that God provides for all of our needs.  Follow the example of Christ who trusts in the Father to provide for all things (Matthew 6:25-34). Praise God for how He is with us, directs our steps, and provides - even in the wilderness. 

Comment and discuss this post

My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves, saves, is with us, guiding our steps, and providing for all of our needs.  Thank You Jesus!  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 and turn 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.

So Moses made a bronze serpent and set it on a pole. And if a serpent bit anyone, he would look at the bronze serpent and live.

Numbers 21:4-9

So Moses made a bronze serpent and set it on a pole. And if a serpent bit anyone, he would look at the bronze serpent and live. Numbers 21:9

I continue my study of Numbers, and in the text today - Numbers 21:4-9, the people once again grumble and complain against the LORD, yet God is abounding in love, relents from His punishment and provides a way out.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.

• What do we learn from the text about God?: God sees grumbling and complaining as a sin, so Israel is punished - v6.  Yet God is merciful and He responds to prayer as the people confess and seek for Moses to intercede - v8.  
• What do we learn from the text about people?: The people are not yet in the Promised Land, and of course one can imagine the people (as we would) seeking the quickest way possible to get to their destination.  Impatience can be seen as a childish behavior (are we there yet?), but it afflicts adults just as well.  The pattern of Israel's grumbling and complaining, and of God showing mercy, is staggering - God not only provides second chances, but third, fourth, etc.  Yes, many are harshly punished, but we have to acknowledge that we ALL sin and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23, 1 John 1:8) and the wages of sin is death (Romans 6:23). So we don't deserve God's mercy - yet He provides a way out.  Jesus is this way out - if we confess, like Israel does here in v7 and we have someone like Moses who intercedes on our behalf (we do in Jesus), we can be assured of forgiveness and of salvation (Romans 10:9-10).  Yet we cannot prevent punishment as this is for God alone to determine and we must see punishment as love from the Father for good.  Israel should have seen this in how they remained in the wilderness.   
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Do not grumble and complain.  Claim the promises that God disciplines those He loves, and God forgives and saves.  Follow the example of Israel who confessed - and the example of those acknowledge Jesus as Lord and Savior.  Be thankful in all circumstances. 

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me Jesus and help me overcome and turn from my sin and turn 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.

Everyone also to whom God has given wealth and possessions and power to enjoy them, and to accept his lot and rejoice in his toil—this is the gift of God. For he will not much remember the days of his life because God keeps him occupied with joy in his heart.

Ecclesiastes 5:1-20

Everyone also to whom God has given wealth and possessions and power to enjoy them, and to accept his lot and rejoice in his toil—this is the gift of God. For he will not much remember the days of his life because God keeps him occupied with joy in his heart. Ecclesiastes 5:19-20

I pause my study of Numbers, to read Ecclesiastes 5 in more detail as a follow up to my men's Friday AM group, and in the text today, Solomon shares how we should fear God in terms of what we say and do, and how God wants us to see wealth and possessions.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.

• What do we learn from the text about God?: Our fellowship with God, and, in particular how we communicate in prayer (including vows) is something we should not treat flippantly.  Yes, God is accessible and approachable, and He wants a relationship with us but we should communicate with reverence, recognizing that God reigns and that we are completely dependent on Him for all things.  God also provides all that we experience, including wealth and possessions.  They come from Him and they belong to Him - James 1:17.  We can and should enjoy wealth and possessions, but we should first and foremost enjoy God as our most treasured possession, that He saved us and we can never be separated from His love - Romans 8:38-39.
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Many, as Solomon points out, seek their own agenda when communicating with God - see also Matthew 6:7. We know also that many find contentment in their wealth and possessions vs God. 
• 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 seeking your own agenda when communicating with God and treasuring wealth and possessions more than God Himself.  Claim the promise that God provides for all our needs and we belong to Him and in Him we have a rich inheritance. Follow the example of Solomon who saw that devoid of God, all is meaningless.  Love God and seek Him with all of Your heart. 

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves.  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of how You love, save, provide and never leave or forsake me.  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.

And the LORD heeded the voice of Israel and gave over the Canaanites, and they devoted them and their cities to destruction. So the name of the place was called Hormah.

Numbers 21:1-3

And the LORD heeded the voice of Israel and gave over the Canaanites, and they devoted them and their cities to destruction. So the name of the place was called Hormah. Numbers 21:1-3

I continue my study of Numbers, and in the text today - Numbers 21:1-3 - Israel encounters a challenge in the king of Arad who sought to fight against Israel, Israel reaches out to God, and God responds.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.

• What do we learn from the text about God?: Believers must understand the tension between how God is sovereign over all matters (Colossians 1:15-17, see also John Piper book Providence), yet we also have free will.  John Piper argues that Christians are not then robots and our free will then causes God to respond - here in the text today, God responds to a vow (form of prayer with an obligation - see also Hannah's vow to God) from Israel by "heed[ing] the voice of Israel," and giving the Canaanites over to them.  When we encounter challenges, God seeks for us to go to Him and ask for help to overcome.  We don't know how God will respond but we can be assured that He will respond, either by helping us endure or by removing the obstacle or challenge. 
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Israel is likely frustrated that they encounter challenges such as when the king of Edom refuses to let them pass through or today in the text.  They were given the Promised Land, yet why is getting there so hard?  We must understand how God is at work in His plan and His timing.  With Israel, we have to see how God punished Israel for its rebelliousness and how God sought to refine and purify Israel of such sin.  When we make such a vow, we cannot assume that God will always respond the way we seek - here God did, but again this very often will not be the case.  Regardless, God wants us to see Him at work always, that He reigns, and that we must depend on Him to endure and overcome challenges and obstacles.  
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Do not try and overcome or endure challenges under your own strength and power.  Claim the promise that He will help us overcome (John 16:33). Follow the example of Israel to go to God when You encounter challenges or obstacles.  Trust that God is always at work for good. 

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God that is in control, always at work for good and You save!  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of how You love, save and bless.  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.

“...Let Aaron be gathered to his people, for he shall not enter the land that I have given to the people of Israel, because you rebelled against my command at the waters of Meribah....And when all the congregation saw that Aaron had perished, all the house of Israel wept for Aaron thirty days.

Numbers 20:22-29

“...Let Aaron be gathered to his people, for he shall not enter the land that I have given to the people of Israel, because you rebelled against my command at the waters of Meribah....And when all the congregation saw that Aaron had perished, all the house of Israel wept for Aaron thirty days. Numbers 20:24, 29

I continue my study of Numbers, and in the text today - Numbers 20:22-29 - we see the text describe Aaron's death in the wilderness and the people's mourning.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.

• What do we learn from the text about God?: God fulfills His promised punishment to Aaron (and Moses) that he will not enter the promised land (see Numbers 20:2-13) as a result of lack of trust in Him and disobedience to His command. As I posted a couple of days ago, this punishment may seem harsh, but church leaders are held to a high standard.  Additionally, we must view all discipline from the Lord as training as both just (God's justice is perfect) and for good (see Proverbs 3:11-12, Hebrews 12:11).
• What do we learn from the text about people?: While we see Aaron's punishment on one hand, we should also see God's love based on v29.  God wants it known that Aaron was loved by the people and it is implied that He loved him also...and wants this known by those reading His Word.  Aaron will also have eternal life.    
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Leaders of the church such as Aaron should avoid disobedience or partial obedience as leaders are held to a higher standard.  Claim the promise that God's discipline is for good and is just.  At the same time, follow the example of Aaron who served God faithfully (again acknowledging that He is faithful).  Abide in Him and see how His commandments (obedience) are not burdensome (1 John 5:3). 

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves!  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of how You save.  My sin is great and it continues...daily.  Please forgive me 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.

But Edom said to him, “You shall not pass through, lest I come out with the sword against you."...But he said, “You shall not pass through.” And Edom came out against them with a large army and with a strong force. Thus Edom refused to give Israel passage through his territory, so Israel turned away from him.

Numbers 20:14-21

But Edom said to him, “You shall not pass through, lest I come out with the sword against you."...But he said, “You shall not pass through.” And Edom came out against them with a large army and with a strong force. Thus Edom refused to give Israel passage through his territory, so Israel turned away from him. Numbers 20:18, 20-21

I continue my study of Numbers, and in the text today - Numbers 20:14-21 - Moses seeks approval from the king of Edom to pass through his kingdom on the way to the Promised Land.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.

• What do we learn from the text about God?: While some scholars highlight the text as fulfilling prophecy of Esau's descendants (Edomites) living "by [the] sword" (Genesis 27:40), core to this message is how God is at work in Israel - that God had already punished Israel earlier in Numbers 14:33-34 for their rebelliousness and this punishment resulted in forty more years in the wilderness.  We should note that in the text, Moses sent messengers to the king of Edom (v14), and it is implied that Moses did not consult God nor did God direct Moses to seek approval for passage through Edom.   
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Many, myself included, have made decisions without consulting God and it does not end well, particularly when we know God has other plans.  We should recognize that all of our lives are in His hands, His plans cannot be thwarted, and His plan is perfect and good.  See also Proverbs 3:5-6, 16:9, Psalm 37:23-24, Jeremiah 10:23, and Romans 8:28.  Seek Him and His guidance - in other words abide in Him and we will bear fruit (John 15:1-10).
• 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 decisions that do not center on God's will for your life - seek His will (Romans 12:2). Claim the promise that if we abide in Him, He will abide in us and we will bear fruit and it will be good. Follow the example of Jesus who sought the Father's will and not His own. Abide in Him. 

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves me and saves!  Thank You Jesus!  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.

And the LORD said to Moses and Aaron, “Because you did not believe in me, to uphold me as holy in the eyes of the people of Israel, therefore you shall not bring this assembly into the land that I have given them.”

Numbers 20:1-13

And the LORD said to Moses and Aaron, “Because you did not believe in me, to uphold me as holy in the eyes of the people of Israel, therefore you shall not bring this assembly into the land that I have given them.” Numbers 20:12

I continue my study of Numbers, and in the text today - Numbers 20:1-13 - Miriam dies and is buried by the people in the wilderness, and Moses does not completely follow God instructions to bring water from the rock, and is subsequently punished harshly.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.

• What do we learn from the text about God?: God provides and comforts the people during their time of need - in the face of not having any water, God gave instructions to Moses (vv7-8) to use the staff (see also Numbers 17), and to command the rock to yield water.  Indeed God was able to yield water from the rock, despite Moses not following His instructions completely.  God's plan will not be thwarted.  
• What do we learn from the text about people?:  Alarmingly, we see the people grumbling, complaining, quarreling with, and rebelling against God - see vv2-5.  After all that God has done, including provide and cause both the earth to swallow up Korah's rebellion (Numbers 16) and a plague that killed 14,700, the people fail to trust in the LORD to provide water.  Instead of going to Moses and Aaron to intercede, the people grumble, complain, quarrel, and rebel.  Unless we abide in Him, we will not bear any fruit (John 15:1-10).  Key to the text today is how Moses fails to completely follow God's instructions in v8 to "tell" or command the rock to yield water - instead Moses strikes the rock twice (v11).  V12 describes God's harsh punishment to Moses as he will not be able to enter the Promised Land.  Perhaps one can see such punishment as harsh, but we must also remember that church leaders are held to a higher standard.   
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): Do not grumble, complain, quarrel with, or rebel against church leadership as they are God's appointed leaders.  Church leaders should also be mindful how they are avoid not following God's commands - do not add to or subtract from His Word.  Claim the promise that God is Lord over all of Creation, He is faithful, and we can trust in Him to provide.  Follow the example of Jesus who trusted the Father and willingly laid down His life.  Love and trust in Him. 

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My Prayer: Father God, You of  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 and turn 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 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.

Whoever touches a dead person, the body of anyone who has died, and does not cleanse himself, defiles the tabernacle of the LORD, and that person shall be cut off from Israel; because the water for impurity was not thrown on him, he shall be unclean.

Numbers 19:1-22

Whoever touches a dead person, the body of anyone who has died, and does not cleanse himself, defiles the tabernacle of the LORD, and that person shall be cut off from Israel; because the water for impurity was not thrown on him, he shall be unclean. Numbers 19:13

I continue my study of Numbers, and in the text today - Numbers 19:1-22 - God describes purification laws (ceremonial law) for the people.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.

• What do we learn from the text about God?: Impurity is a big deal to God, and the text today lays out many of the Old Testament criteria or conditions that trigger impurity.  Old Testament law ultimately became twisted by the Jewish leaders who focused on the actions of purification vs the heart condition that God really seeks through purification.  Sin is really what drives impurity and this is the great equalizer because we all sin (Psalm 14:1, Romans 3:10, 23, 1 John 1:8).  The gospel of Jesus Christ, allows us to confess and be cleansed of sin and therefore be justified or declared "not guilty" or not accountable for the sin we committed as this would have if guilty led to death (Romans 6:23).  God wants us to love Him with all of our heart and allow Him to change us from the inside out - heart and life transformation.  All are deserving to hear the gospel and of the work He does in us.   
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Purification laws at one point were twisted by Israel to avoid association with those from other lands.  Yet we know that God never intended this as even in the Old Testament, God sought to save those beyond the borders of Israel - one such example is God sending Jonah to save Nineveh.  In the New Testament we see Peter (see Acts 10:28), based on his vision from God, make clear God's intent to not to exclude anyone not from Israel from the church - deemed unclean based on purification laws.  The gospel extends to the Gentiles and to all corners of the world (Matthew 20:19-20).   
• 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 excluding anyone from hearing the gospel.  Claim the promise that Jesus came to seek and save the lost - all.  Follow the example of Peter, Paul and so many others who seek to bring the gospel to all tribes and nations.  Go into the world and bring the Good News everywhere.   

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and seeks to save everyone - all sin and fall short of the glory of God and all are worthy of hearing the gospel to be saved.  You save!  Thank You Jesus for saving me.  I am not deserving...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.

Out of all the gifts to you, you shall present every contribution due to the LORD; from each its best part is to be dedicated.

Numbers 18:25-32

Out of all the gifts to you, you shall present every contribution due to the LORD; from each its best part is to be dedicated. Numbers 18:29

I continue my study of Numbers, and in the text today - Numbers 18:25-32 - God gives Moses instructions to give the Levites regarding contributions from the people given to them.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.

• What do we learn from the text about God?: God seeks for the Levites to take a "tithe of the tithe" given to the Levites from the people and give it to the Lord.  God then emphasizes that "from each its best part" of contributions given to you "is to be dedicated" to the LORD (v29).  Giving of our time, treasure and talents to God is a reflection of our heart - do we love God fully?  Do we trust that He will provide?  Are we seeking God's glory or our own when we serve or give?
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Many seek their own glory as an outcome of service or giving to God.  For example, in Acts 5:1-11, after many were giving liberally and cheerfully to the early church (see end of Acts 4), Ananias and Sapphira (Acts 5:1-11) gave proceeds from a land sale to the early church and held back some of the proceeds for themselves and then lied about it - this did not end well for them and God struck them down.  
• 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 giving to or serving God begrudgingly.  Claim the promise that giving to God leads to a bountiful harvest as described in 2 Corinthians 9:6-8. Follow the example of those as described in Acts 4 and give cheerfully.

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves - You provide every good and perfect gift, and You promise abundance that always delivers.  Thank You Jesus!  I am not deserving of such love and blessing.  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 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.

And the LORD said to Aaron, “You shall have no inheritance in their land, neither shall you have any portion among them. I am your portion and your inheritance among the people of Israel.

Numbers 18:8-24

And the LORD said to Aaron, “You shall have no inheritance in their land, neither shall you have any portion among them. I am your portion and your inheritance among the people of Israel. Numbers 18:20

I continue my study of Numbers, and in the text today - Numbers 18:8-24 - God continues to speak to Aaron, sharing with Aaron how the Levites will have charge over contributions given to Him by the people, and how God will care for the Levites in their role in the priesthood.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.

• What do we learn from the text about God?: God entrusts the Levites to guard the sanctuary lest anyone come near or in and die (see also post yesterday and previous posts).  This is a great responsibility...and with it comes great accountability.  In all of this, God blesses and cares for those who serve God and His mission.  Yes, there is a sacrifice of time and talent but God provides and blesses those who serve. 
• What do we learn from the text about people?: So many serve the church tirelessly, most in ways that are less visible.  God wants those who serve the church to know that not only is this noticed but it is desired and acknowledged by God as good, and it will be rewarded now and for eternity.  We should serve and claim the promise that God is our portion, and that He will provide and bless us. 
• 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 grumbling and complaining about serving and following God.  Claim the promise that He will provide and bless us and others through our service.  Follow the example of Moses and Aaron to lead and serve the church.  Live life knowing that with great responsibility comes great accountability.  

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves...thank You Jesus for how You love, save, provide and bless.  I am not deserving of how you love, save, provide and bless.  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.

So the LORD said to Aaron, “You and your sons and your father’s house with you shall bear iniquity connected with the sanctuary, and you and your sons with you shall bear iniquity connected with your priesthood.

Numbers 18:1-7

So the LORD said to Aaron, “You and your sons and your father’s house with you shall bear iniquity connected with the sanctuary, and you and your sons with you shall bear iniquity connected with your priesthood. Numbers 18:1

I continue my study of Numbers, and in the text today - Numbers 18:1-7 - we see God speak to Aaron, giving him and the Levites instructions in their role with the priesthood, reinforcing earlier instructions that serve to prevent future rebellion against Aaron and the Levites.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.

• What do we learn from the text about God?: God seeks for Aaron and the Levites to bear iniquity connected with the sanctuary and the priesthood and the current dictionary definition shares that this means to conduct oneself well relating to sin connected with the sanctuary and priesthood - for example Aaron's participation with the golden calf (Exodus 32) and his sons' use of unauthorized fire (Leviticus 10:1-3). Duties given to Aaron and the Levites are further clarified here in the text today as God shares that they are to guard (word used 4x in the text today) the sanctuary, including its contents such as the altar.  Others are not allowed to come near (let alone into) the sanctuary (Tent of Meeting) for risk of death (v7).  Also mentioned in the text today is how the Levites are a gift to Aaron and given to the Lord to serve in the priesthood (vv6-7).  After Korah's rebellion that very likely shook both Moses and Aaron, God encourages Aaron and makes it clear that Aaron and the Levites have a God-given role to play.  God equips His servants with helpers (including the Holy Spirit) to serve.  They will also be held to a high standard of accountability. 
• What do we learn from the text about people?: As I have posted yesterday and with previous posts, we must submit to authorities, specifically church leadership.  We should not grumble and complain about our church leadership but instead defer and pray for them.  Trust God that they will be held to account.     
• Is there anything from the text God wants us to obey (SPEC: Sins to avoid, Promises to claim, Examples to follow, Commands to obey?): If you are appointed to church leadership, avoid taking this lightly.  Claim the promise that God will equip and help His appointed servants.  Follow the example of Moses and Aaron who were faithful servants of God. Trust God and His appointed servants; submit and defer to their authority.   

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God who loves and saves!  Thank You Jesus for the church I have and its Godly leadership.  I am not deserving of how You bless.  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 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.

And the LORD said to Moses, “Put back the staff of Aaron before the testimony, to be kept as a sign for the rebels, that you may make an end of their grumblings against me, lest they die.”

Numbers 17:1-13

And the LORD said to Moses, “Put back the staff of Aaron before the testimony, to be kept as a sign for the rebels, that you may make an end of their grumblings against me, lest they die.” Numbers 17:10

I continue my study of Numbers, and in the text today - Numbers 17:1-13 - we see God's instructions to Moses to give to the people to settle the matter of Aaron's priesthood.  Here are my observations using the Sword Bible Study Method.

• What do we learn from the text about God?: God clearly communicates through both symbols and actions His message.  In this case, He uses the symbol of staffs or rods which in the Old Testament represented authority and power.  V5 is where the LORD shares "the staff of the man whom I choose shall sprout," and from that point forward the people will cease their grumbling against authority from Aaron.  Vv8 and 10 make it clear that because Aaron's staff sprouted, it will be preserved as a sign to end further rebellions.    
• What do we learn from the text about people?: Such a sign or any physical sign from God should cause one to be in reverent fear of God's power, as we should acknowledge that the entire universe is controlled by Him (Colossians 1:16-17), including all authorities.  Thus it is not surprising to see the people's reaction in vv12-13 of fear - yet it is unclear at this point that this causes repentant fear.  Repentant fear is what God seeks, and John Piper refers to this as "fear as preservative" such that we fear angering or disappointing God, so we avoid sin.   
• 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 rebellion against God's appointed leaders, including both church leaders and civil authorities. Claim the promise that God reigns over all details including authority He places above us.  Follow the example of Christ who rendered to Caesar what is Caesar's and to God what is God's (see also Romans 13:1-7).  Submit to God's appointed leaders. 

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My Prayer: Father God, You are an awesome God that works in all things for good - including leaders in my church and civil authorities.  Thank You for how Your design is perfect.  I am not deserving of how You work and bless me.  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.