Jesus taught that all scripture testifies about him so that in him we might have life (John 5v39-40). King David taught that it is only by living according to God's word that we're kept on the right path (Psalm 119v9). What then could be better than reading the entire Bible? Click the menu to read about the program, choose a month or Bible book - or just work through the blog posts day by day.
BEGIN WITH PRAYER
As in Leviticus, we see that all that is "unclean" must be kept outside the camp because of God's purity and perfection. God mercifully enables people to approach him not by lowering his standards but by making them clean, now through Christ. We also see God's concern with keeping society together when people sin. Not only is confession and atonement required, but restitution to the victim. The test of the potentially unfaithful wife is probably here because of the centrality of marriage in passing the faith to the next generation and imaging God's own covenant commitment. The dramatic ritual would have been a powerful deterrent. But it also protects any innocent wife as the result depends entirely on God, settling the matter for the paranoid husband. The Nazarite’s vow of separation was a particularly special way of dedicating oneself to the LORD for a time. Abstaining from drink and not touching the dead were otherwise required of priests, ensuring focus on the the Lord and total cleanliness. Not cutting their hair was “the symbol” or reminder of the Nazarite’s commitment. Their offerings atoned for their sin and reflected their devotion and fellowship with God. We’re reminded vows must not be made lightly (6v21), but challenged too about whether we might be so devoted to the LORD, as Christ was throughout his life. As you read consider what we are learning about God's concerns for us in Christ.
"Lord open my eyes and my heart."
Read slowly so that you take in. And as you do, turn your heart to God, thanking him for the good you discover and praying his will home for you, yor family, your church and the world.
Wisdom to chew on
Understanding to grow in
Numbers 5-6
Finish this reading by pausing to ask yourself:
1) What’s the main thing it teaches me about God or his purposes in Christ? Then praise him for this.
2) What’s the main thing it teaches me about his will for me or the world? Then pray that home.
Devotion to offer up
You could read this aloud and perhaps as a springboard to further prayer.