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.
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.
