Don't strike the rock!!! Welcome to the middle of Feb.
Today, in Num 17-20, we read about more grumbling from the Israelites, more rules to follow for the Levite priests, and the passing of Moses' sister and brother. Very much a sad chapters. But, still lessons to be learned.
One big lesson is our responsibility for others. It is both a blessing and a burden not to be taken lightly. Our actions will impact the future generation.
God's righteousness is also displayed in ch 20. Moses is commanded to speak to the rock to release water for the people. Instead, he strikes it twice with the staff. Months and years of dedicated service, climbing mountains, facing difficult obstacles, wiped out through a single act of disobedience. Moses will not enter the promised land. But he will have to lead the nation for many years still.
The other big lesson is obedience. Do we alter what is asked of us? Even slightly? For results of doing it "our way", see Moses in Num ch 20.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
My heart longs for you today....
My heart longs for you all today.....
Similarly, God loved the Israelites so much that allowed them to struggle through learning to trust and rely on Him. He still allows us the same lessons. In Num 13-16, the Israelites grumble, complain, rebel and die. God's anger, wrath, and frustration are felt by the people. There are a few notables that stay faithful. We know the names and actions of Moses, Aaron, Caleb and Joshua. To which do you model after?
We all face times of trouble and despair. God has shown time and again that nothing is too big for him. Even death, see Christ, Jesus. So if God can handle things with eternal consequences, don't you think he can handle the "mountains" you are facing? The decendants of Anak eventually died.
Doubting God's ability is not a good idea, see Dathan, Korah or Abiram. He is a big God.
Similarly, God loved the Israelites so much that allowed them to struggle through learning to trust and rely on Him. He still allows us the same lessons. In Num 13-16, the Israelites grumble, complain, rebel and die. God's anger, wrath, and frustration are felt by the people. There are a few notables that stay faithful. We know the names and actions of Moses, Aaron, Caleb and Joshua. To which do you model after?
We all face times of trouble and despair. God has shown time and again that nothing is too big for him. Even death, see Christ, Jesus. So if God can handle things with eternal consequences, don't you think he can handle the "mountains" you are facing? The decendants of Anak eventually died.
Doubting God's ability is not a good idea, see Dathan, Korah or Abiram. He is a big God.
Monday, February 13, 2012
Meatloaf, again??????
Are we having THAT again???? Have you ever thought that about your dinner?
In Num 9-12, the Israelites became weary of their journey, as well as the provisions God was giving. In ch 11, the people cried out for meat. Moses doubted the Lord's ability to provide this in v 21. In v23, the Lord replies,"Is there any limit to my power?". How big is your God?
Do we see the provisions God has made for us? Do we graciously thank Him, or are we longing for something else? Seems that this feeling is not new. Even in our discontent, God still provides and cares for us. We would be wise to realize this and remain grateful.....
In Num 9-12, the Israelites became weary of their journey, as well as the provisions God was giving. In ch 11, the people cried out for meat. Moses doubted the Lord's ability to provide this in v 21. In v23, the Lord replies,"Is there any limit to my power?". How big is your God?
Do we see the provisions God has made for us? Do we graciously thank Him, or are we longing for something else? Seems that this feeling is not new. Even in our discontent, God still provides and cares for us. We would be wise to realize this and remain grateful.....
Saturday, February 11, 2012
Owings Corning to the rescue?
: It is Sat here in the cold north...and we are thankful for insulation against the elements.....
Speaking of insulating, in Num ch 5-8, Moses records how God set up rules to insulate the Israelites from the influence of evil, but not to isolate them from the people to whom they could be aa testimony. God was preparing them to enter a land filled with Pagan people.
God will insulate us as well. After all, we are a chosen people in this fallen world. God provides guidance through His word, and through people who are more mature in their walk. But do not think that we are to stay set apart. We are to be disciples of all nations. Hard to do if we stay isolated.....
Speaking of insulating, in Num ch 5-8, Moses records how God set up rules to insulate the Israelites from the influence of evil, but not to isolate them from the people to whom they could be aa testimony. God was preparing them to enter a land filled with Pagan people.
God will insulate us as well. After all, we are a chosen people in this fallen world. God provides guidance through His word, and through people who are more mature in their walk. But do not think that we are to stay set apart. We are to be disciples of all nations. Hard to do if we stay isolated.....
Friday, February 10, 2012
One, Two, Three...
Count Von Count of Sesame St would be excited with today's foray.....NUMBERS!!!
Numbers was usually one of those books that I would gloss over or rush through. What a mistake that was. There is much to learn from this book. Like a military campaign, the plan God gives to Moses provides the best protection, the swiftest ability to move, and various duties to be carried out.
God made sure the numbers worked out by assigning the tribes to various areas. As seen in Ch3 v39-43, God even knew the number of first born people in the entire camp!
Organization, discipline, accountability, and duty were characteristic God commanded from the beginning....And He still does.
Numbers was usually one of those books that I would gloss over or rush through. What a mistake that was. There is much to learn from this book. Like a military campaign, the plan God gives to Moses provides the best protection, the swiftest ability to move, and various duties to be carried out.
God made sure the numbers worked out by assigning the tribes to various areas. As seen in Ch3 v39-43, God even knew the number of first born people in the entire camp!
Organization, discipline, accountability, and duty were characteristic God commanded from the beginning....And He still does.
Thursday, February 9, 2012
Finishing the law.....
Today's reading in Lev ch 24-27 takes us to the end of the law given to Moses by God. Quite a lot to know and remember!
Reading ch 26 v 9-13, if only we had obeyed. God promises blessings, but we decided to do things our way. This even applies today. How many decisions do we rush into without praying for guidance? Do we even search through scripture for the answers?
Also, take note of ch26v33-35. Forshadowing the Babylonian captivity....God keeps his promises. Do you think He has a plan?
Reading ch 26 v 9-13, if only we had obeyed. God promises blessings, but we decided to do things our way. This even applies today. How many decisions do we rush into without praying for guidance? Do we even search through scripture for the answers?
Also, take note of ch26v33-35. Forshadowing the Babylonian captivity....God keeps his promises. Do you think He has a plan?
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
What do I have to do?
In Lev 21-23, we read about priestly purity, the duties and requirements for serving God. There are quite a few rules, and life of a priest was not easy.
Ever stop to ask why God has so many rules for his priests? Could it be to remind them not to take their duties lightly? What about us today? We might not rules for following the Lord, but do we take it too lightly? Are we truly purposeful in our actions? Or does simple random chance determine our path? When Jesus died, the veil in the temple was torn open. This signifies our access to God. That definitely is something not to be taken lightly....just look at what His priests had to do for the same access.....
Ever stop to ask why God has so many rules for his priests? Could it be to remind them not to take their duties lightly? What about us today? We might not rules for following the Lord, but do we take it too lightly? Are we truly purposeful in our actions? Or does simple random chance determine our path? When Jesus died, the veil in the temple was torn open. This signifies our access to God. That definitely is something not to be taken lightly....just look at what His priests had to do for the same access.....
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