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
"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
Aaron and sons are ordained just "as the LORD commanded." Many of the ideas so far in the book are therefore repeated. Of note is the goal: God appearing (9v23-24). As we've seen, the purpose of the priesthood is to enable God to dwell amongst sinners without destroying them in righteous wrath. The story of Aaron's sons makes the point. When up close to God they presumed to act in a way he hadn't commanded, and the fire of his anger broke out and consumed them. Moses' response clarifies that those who approach God must do so acknowledging the purity and perfection of his holiness. Indeed, one reason sin must be punished is to show onlookers that he is holy and to be honoured, so protecting them by maintaining their reverent fear (10v3). We think little about this. God must punish sin both to show its seriousness and his holiness. This holiness is probably the reason for the prohibition on mourning (10v6). It may be that such an unkept state is inappropriate in God's presence. The command not to drink alcohol seems to be to ensure clarity of mind in teaching (10v8-11). In short, everything must be as fitting as it can be. Of course, because we are cleansed in Christ God graciously overlooks our often flippant and half-hearted worship, and lifts the burden of fearfully trying to ensure everything is exactly right. But we should not presume this means the standard has changed. Jesus commands us: "Be perfect, therefore, as your Father in heaven is perfect" (Matt 5v48). As you read note how God's desire for perfection is seen.
Leviticus 8:1-10:20
Leviticus 8:1-10:20
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.