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, your family, your church and the world.
Wisdom to chew on
Understanding to grow in
It seems out of jeleousy these Levites resented God setting Aaron's family apart as priests, and Moses' leadership too. So they allowed everyday Israelites to engage in the priestly role of offering incense. This was serious. It treated the LORD with "contempt" (16v30) because it rejected his commands and structures. The dramatic punishment should have been enough for the people to learn the lesson. But still they grumbled, proving the need of the priests to make atonement when God's wrath subsequently broke out. Aaron is further vindicated as the LORD enables only his staff to bud. It warns us over grumbling against faithful leaders in the church or resenting it when God qualifies only certain people to certain roles. Above all, it shows our need to accept Christ as our High Priest and not presume to be able to take his role in atoning for our sin - whether by religious rituals or moral effort. As you read note the attitudes that have to be challenged.
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.