Numbers 6:1-7:89 + Mark 12:38-13:13 + Psalm 49:1-20 + Proverbs 10:27-28
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Old Testament – Today in Numbers chapter 6 we read about the Nazirite laws! The Nazirite vows could be taken for as little as 30 days or as long as a lifetime. It was voluntary – except parents could take the vow for their children, making them Nazirites for life. Samson, Samuel, and John the Baptist are all thought to have been Nazirites for life. Below is a painting by C.E. Brock of Samson and the lion from Judges 14:6 –
Today in Numbers chapter 6 verses 22-27 we will read the well known “Aaronic Blessing”, which I’ve underlined in the verses (and is in the image below) – “The LORD said to Moses, “Tell Aaron and his sons, ‘This is how you are to bless the Israelites. Say to them: “The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.” “So they will put my name on the Israelites, and I will bless them.”” How does this blessing speak to you today? Have you heard this blessing prayed aloud before? Can you imagine this ancient blessing that has been prayed innumerable times in history being prayed over you today? Take a few moments to really meditate upon the 3 sections of the blessing. Do you notice that each section begins with God’s name? Do you believe that God can indeed bless you and keep you (favor & protect you)? That he can indeed make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you (be pleased & be merciful and compassionate to you)? And do you believe that God can indeed turn his face toward you and give you peace (give approval & peace to you)? It is also of note that this blessing “put God’s name on the Israelites and they were blessed.” Do you believe that God’s name is upon you today? Do you want God’s name to be upon you today?
Chapter 7 is the longest chapter in the book of Numbers, and certainly an amazing one. It is awesome to read about the presentation of offerings for the dedication of the altar over 12 days. At the end of this chapter we read in verse 89: “Whenever Moses went into the Tabernacle to speak with the LORD, he heard the voice speaking to him from between the two cherubim above the Ark’s cover–the place of atonement–that rests on the Ark of the Covenant. The LORD spoke to him from there.”
New Testament – In Mark chapter 12 verses 41 through 43 today we read the powerful narrative of the Widow’s Mite – “Jesus went over to the collection box in the Temple and sat and watched as the crowds dropped in their money. Many rich people put in large amounts. Then a poor widow came and dropped in two pennies. He called his disciples to him and said, “I assure you, this poor widow has given more than all the others have given. For they gave a tiny part of their surplus, but she, poor as she is, has given everything she has.”” How does this narrative speak to you? When it comes to your time, treasure, and talents, do you give to God out of your surplus? Or do you give to God all that you have? What should we learn today from the widow about giving?
Psalms – Psalm 49 verses 1-3 are a fantastic teaching that the Word of God, the Bible, is for everyone, no matter what our lots in life may be – “Listen to this, all you people! Pay attention, everyone in the world! High and low, rich and poor–listen! For my words are wise, and my thoughts are filled with insight.” Are you listening today? Are you paying attention to the wise words and insights of the Bible? Are you truly studying the Bible and then applying the Bible’s teachings to your life? Then, verse 15 in this Psalm is beautiful: “But as for me, God will redeem my life. He will snatch me from the power of death.” How about for you? Will God redeem your life? Like the parable of the lost sheep that we read about in Luke 15:3-7, has Jesus saved you from being snatched from the power of death?
Proverbs – Proverbs chapter 10 verse 27 teaches us – “Fear of the LORD lengthens one’s life, but the years of the wicked are cut short.” Below is a great image for Proverbs 10:28 from today’s readings:
Worship Video: Based on reading the Aaronic blessing today in Numbers, here’s the blessing sung as a duet. Beautiful!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MQNZs7preGw
Has the Lord blessed you? Click here to be kept forever!
Please join us in memorizing and meditating on three verses of Scripture today: “”The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.” Numbers 6:24-26 NIV
Prayer Point: Pray that God will bless you and keep you. Pray that Jesus will give you peace. Pray Numbers 6:24-46 for your family and neighbors today.
Comments from You & Questions of the Day: Based on Proverbs 10:27 above, do you agree that the fear of the Lord lengthens your life? Why or why not? Do you think fear of the Lord is a good thing? Why or why not? Also, what verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings? Please post up by clicking on the “Comments” link below!
God bless,
Mike
p.s. Download our monthly Small Group study notes for our Bible readings at this link.
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BLOG READERS HISTORICAL COMMUNITY COMMENTS:
(our Group Bible Study is below! : )
======= Ramona:
Numbers 6-7:89
In the dedication of oneself to the Lord as a Nazirite (note in the Hebrew text, the English translation in the Tanakh, Nazirite is not capitalized), if someone defiles you by dying in your presence, you are required to present a “sin” offering as well as a guilt offering. This shows us how insidious sin is even when we are not participating in sin ourselves. The sin that is committed around us by others brings guilt upon us. So sin is not an individual thing, like yeast it spreads to those around us just because it is sin.
Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God (Romans 10:17). Every time the people gathered to hear what the Lord had spoken the people heard, 24 The Lord bless you and protect you; 25 the Lord make His face shine on you, and be gracious to you; 26 the Lord look with favor on you and give you peace. God, because He made us, knows that it takes us hearing something over and over again before we believe it and this would “train” His people to understand His relationship with them. 27 In this way they will put My name on the Israelites, and I will bless them.”
I was wondering why every tribe brought the exact same gift as they presented their gift to Moses after the Tabernacle was anointed and consecrated. But it makes perfect sense because God is not a respecter of persons so as long as everyone’s gift was the same, no one could claim a higher or lesser place in God’s sight based on what they gave.
Which leads into today’s Gospel reading.
Mark 12:38-13:13
Folks not only jockey for power and position by the number of alphabets they have behind their names (degrees), but in a great many churches, including mine, people parade their counterfeit-power by the colorfulness and the high-powered labels on their clothes. This is a very easy trap to fall into and Jesus address his disciples and those he taught to watch out for these trappings from people who behind close doors or out of the light of day manipulate people to gather up money and property that don’t belong to them and cover it up by pretending to be holy.
One of the things I find interesting about the widow that Jesus observed, it doesn’t say that Jesus ran or called after her so he could give her back her money. Jesus knew that there is a blessing in giving and He would have deprived her of that blessing if he had told her a) not to give, or b) given her money back to her. We need to encourage those who think they are poor because they lack monetary wealth to give to God because no one can out give God and it is in our giving that we receive.
Jesus foretelling of the end times is both a blessing and a stumbling block to people. There are those who know that the injustices they see will not last forever and they will be given an opportunity to proclaim Jesus’ name to the nations or ethnos. This will user in opportunities to spread the Good News or Gospel, which is our primary purpose however uncomfortable the situation may be. Then there are those who sit around talking amongst themselves trying to figure out how long or short His return will be based on how they read the political and environmental climate. The problem with that is there is so much time being spent doing this they are not following the command of Jesus, which is to “occupy until I return.” Talents are being buried and are not being put to good use because we are talking about the wrong things.
We use fear to try to get people into the Kingdom when they are suppose to come by faith (Hebrews 11:6)
Psalm 49:
This is a Psalm that tells it like it is. It seems to be something one would find in the Book of Proverbs, but here it sits in Psalms. If ever anyone needs to be reminded of the fragility of wealth, the frailty of intimidation and brute force, and the foolishness of human knowledge, one only need to turn to the Forty-ninth Psalm to get the straight deal.
And as we go into the reading of today’s Proverb we see that our love affair with the human trappings of man’s power, wealth, might and human knowledge comes with defense.
Proverbs 10:27-28
27 Fear of the LORD lengthens one’s life, but the years of the wicked are cut short.
28 The hopes of the godly result in happiness, but the expectations of the wicked are all in vain.
I think where we go wrong in this affair when we think that life is confined to breathing and walking on this planet earth in our earth suits. We forget that we are spiritual beings trying to master the human experience. Our longevity is not in question, what is in question is at what location we are going to spend the rest of our spiritual lives: Like real estate its, location, location, location.
Grace and peace,
Ramona
======= Anka:
Numbers7:9 But to the sons of Kohath he gave none, because theirs was the service of the holy things, which they carried on their shoulders.
I couldn’t help wondering why the sons of Kohath were given nothing…could it be that carrying the Holy things was a reward in itself…
Fearing the Lord is a constant prayer of mine…it helps me keep my raging thoughts in order,it helps me not rely on grace when my flesh wants to lead in into disobedience…or the sin of omission…it helps me keep in mind that my creator is not only to be loved but to be feared,it helps me come to terms with my worthlessness and foolishness without Christ which makes me value the sacrifice more often than just during easter.Maybe I’m kinda hoping fear will not make me take love for granted.
God bless you all
Anka
======= Micah Girl:
I love the Aaronic blessing and frequently pray it over my children when I am tucking them in, or use it to close a worship service in prayer. It is so powerful and I love benedictions!
I thought that there was an interesting contrast in Mark between the teachers of the law who devour widows’ houses and pray for show (reminding me of modern-day, lavish-living, tv personalities who have people send in their money all the time) with the simple widow who really gave to the work of the Lord, not under manipulation but out of simple obedience.
Also, I do indeed believe that “fear of the LORD lengthens one’s life, but the years of the wicked are cut short.” As I am growing in disciplines out of my fear of God my days themselves seem longer because I am wasting less time and am more in tune with God’s will for me.
Micah Girl
======= Stacey:
“Fear of the LORD lengthens one’s life, but the years of the wicked are cut short.”
I believe that “to fear the Lord” brings eternity into view. Those who fear the Lord accept Jesus as their Savior and begin the life that continues forever. The wicked only live here in this life and when they die physically, they are eternally dead as well.
To fear the Lord means to reverence Him in such a way as to live your life to please Him. For He is holy and Sovereign. His ways are not our ways, and His thoughts are not our thoughts.
Is 55: 6 Seek the LORD while he may be found;
call on him while he is near.
7 Let the wicked forsake his way
and the evil man his thoughts.
Let him turn to the LORD, and he will have mercy on him,
and to our God, for he will freely pardon.
8 “For my thoughts are not your thoughts,
neither are your ways my ways,”
declares the LORD.
Eternal life starts here and now for the believer. “Fear the Lord” becomes a sign posted on life’s highway that leads to the exit of real eternal life. “Fear the Lord” may very well be the signpost on the narrow gate. From Matt 7:13″Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. 14But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.
Just like the picture of a highway, the destination may be a long way off. In California the sign post for “Sacramento” starts way down in San Diego. To travel the highway and make it all the way there are choices of turn offs to take for hundreds of miles. Lots of course corrections:just when you think you are on the right road, another option pops up and you have to check the signs and make sure that you are in the right lane to eventually reach “Sacramento”.
So I liken “Fear the Lord” to the same type of sign post. “Fear the Lord” points out the right course to take. “Fear the Lord” helps one to understand the will of God. I can’t find all the “Fear the Lord” signposts myself. That is why I need the Holy spirit as Counselor and Guide. I need Him to show me His ways and teach me His paths. (Ps 25) I need the Lord to direct may steps. I need to be walking daily and in tune and in step with the Holy Spirit. (Gal 5:25)
Here is the tragic result for those who do not find the narrow way. Again from Matt 7: 21″Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only he who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. 22Many will say to me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and in your name drive out demons and perform many miracles?’ 23Then I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!’
May God bless you all this day and may you find the narrow path. John 14:6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
Hi Beryl, I am rejoicing with you and Stef about your surgery and God’s gracious Hand upon you.
Stacey
======= Birdie:
Stacey, I like your comments about following the long road. I also think that fear of the Lord means your life will be lengthened, but I think it is eternal life, which will go on forever, and as you said, begins right now.
Birdie
======== Jim:
DEFINITION OF FEAR OF GOD:
“The fear of God is that awesome reverence of the LORD deriving from being sensitive to His glorious, holy and majestic Person resulting in respect and obedience.”
Our reverence should not be one of fearfulness where we want to run away but a good healthy awe which creates a desire to serve.
Jim
======= Ramona:
umbers 6:1-7:89
As I read today’s Old Testament passage, I thought how “expensive” it is to take the vow of a Nazarite and to submit oneself to undertake the symbolic “separation to God,” (6:5). The expense is in your time, your pocketbook and your emotions and “family” responsibility. In other words, to follow God and His Christ cost. This was not something one should be doing rashly.
I am reminded of the Words of Jesus,
“If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother, and wife and children, and brothers and sisters, and even his own life, he cannot be my disciple. Whoever does not carry his own cross and follow me cannot be my disciple. For which of you, wanting to build a tower, doesn’t sit down first and compute the cost to see if he has enough money to complete it? (Luke 14:26-28 NET.)
Jesus told the rich young ruler to sell everything he had and, “Come, follow me ….” (Matthew 10:21). Sometimes I wonder if, when we are actively trying to “win” others to Christ, we are like many unethical salesman, not dealing truthfully in what it cost to follow Christ. On the other hand, we may not be explaining our “product” carefully and rightfully because we ourselves really don’t know what we are selling because we have not considered the cost to ourselves, hmmm.
The offering for the dedication of the Tabernacle is very curious to me, all tribes gave the same thing no matter their size. Not only could no one say, they gave more than the others did; no one tribe gave less either because of their numbers. I believe the “fee” or tax for the Temple/Tabernacle was the same amount for everyone no matter the person’s financial status, and I think we had some comments about that from our previous readings. Interestingly enough for me this Old Testament reading kind of fits into the widow and her 2 pennies in the reading of the New.
I believe she feared God enough to understand that what she gave she was obligated to give so she gave out of her fear of God while others gave out of their “wealth,” not out of their fear of a Holy God.
Grace and peace,
Ramona
======= Chip:
Ramona,
One thought on the equality of the tribes:
Judah, through Ephraim and Manasseh, gave a double portion. Levi gave nothing.
The latter is undoubtedly due to the Levites’ separation as priests.
The former: due to Judah’s birthright (double portion of the inheritance)?
Chip
======= Ramona:
Chip– I believe Ephraim and Manasseh were Joseph’s kids but because Jacob adopted them as his own I think each qualifies as Jacob’s children, thus possibly a separate tribe.
Come to think of it could it be that Joseph (double portion) is a type of the New Testament church receiving as the ones grafted in by adoption better promises based on a “better” covenant? Sorry I am work and don’t have access right now to my references. Also, since levies didn’t have to bring an offering because they ministered in the Tabernacle, could we back track there exemption to that conversation we had about ministerial compensation (This is just a rhetorical question I don’t want to bring up the angst from our previous conversation.)
Chip thanks for the “catch.”
My understanding of the Fear of the Lord is taken primarily from the book of Proverbs,
Pro 8:13 The fear of the LORD is to hate evil: pride, and arrogance, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate.
Ramona
======= John:
Chip
“Judah, through Ephraim and Manasseh, gave a double portion.”
I am confused????
“The one who brought his offering on the first day was Nahshon son of Amminadab of the tribe of Judah.”
Nahshon represented the tribe of Judah.
Ephraim and Manasseh were adopted in to keep the number of tribes at twelve. One to carry on for Joseph (Jacob’s son) and the other to take the place of Levi (Jacob’s son) who was not counted as a tribe. They each headed their own tribe.
Why keep it at twelve?
12 – THE NUMBER OF GOVERNMENTAL PERFECTION. There were 12 tribes of Israel; 12 Apostles, 12 foundations in the heavenly Jerusalem; 12 gates; 12 pearls; 12 angels. The measurements of New Jerusalem are 12,000 furlongs or stadia, while the wall will be 144 (12 x 12) cubits
As far as all the protions being equal no matter the size of the tribe – this is also reflected in Jesus’s parable in Matthew regarding wages for differing hours of work.
No matter the per individual rate of offering, no matter the hours worked – both foreshadow the concept:
No matter whether you have sinned a lot or a little, whether you are saved early or late – heaven is there for all. The cost is the same for everybody:
WHOMSOEVER WILL
John
======= Angie:
ok, i know sometimes we all get mad at the lord, but why should we ever fear him? never, in a million years would i ever fear the lord!!!!! i know he is always going to be there for me no matter what. there is no reason why we should fear the lord. he loves us all so very much. and someone who loves you that much you shouldn’t ever be scared of!!!!!!!!
numbers stood out to me today. our pastor always says this during communion. something about it, i dont’ know what, but it always seems to comfort me.
Angie
======= Jenny:
Angie, I totally know what you’re saying, we love the Lord and lean to Him as our protector and comforter, but to “fear the Lord” is actually a good thing and we hear it again and again in the Bible. I know the term may not make sense, I mean I fear tigers, alligators and spiders, and I sure dont love them or want them near me! But I do fear the Lord also, but I love Him and want Him with me every step of the way. Doesn’t quite make sense huh?
Prov. 1:7 says: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom”.
To fear God is to have a holy reverence for Him, to recognize His supreme sovereign majesty. Reverence means to have an awe for Him, a respect. We are to fear Him in that we don’t bring Him down to our level. Some ppl say, Jesus is my homeboy, me and God are buddies. I think this is in a way disrespecting God. Yes, we who trust in Him are called friends of God, but we are to have a reverence for Him and deep respect and not bring Him down to our human level because He is far above us. He is awesome, glorious and holy and isn’t to be equated to anything/anyone else on earth.
i looked it up in my study Bible and here’s what it says:
“The fear of the Lord. The overarching theme of this book (Proverbs) and particularly the first 9 chapters is introduced- reverence for God. This reverential awe and admiring, submissive fear is foundational for all spiritual wisdom and knowledge. While the nonbeliever might make statements about life and truth, he does not have true and ultimate knowledge until he is in a redemptive relationship of reverential awe with God. Note the progression here: 1) teaching about God; 2) learning about God; 3) fearing God; 4) knowing God, and 5) imitating God’s wisdom.
The fear of the Lord is a state of mind in which one’s own attitudes, will, feelings, deeds, and goals are exchanged for God’s.”
Hoped that helped clear it up a bit, I had questions about that too.
Jenny
======= Katie:
Thank you Jenny for that great definition and explanation for the fear of the Lord. The Lord loves us and takes care of us, we don’t have to be SCARED of Him. But just like our earthly fathers, or persons we love and respect on earth…. we want to please Him, we want to bring honor to Him. Sometimes when I’ve wanted to do something stupid or bad or …. well, you know what I mean…. I realize that my Lord is right there watching me. And then, the fear of the Lord HAS lengthened my life (like in the topic question). The fear of the Lord, the desire to please Him, not wanting Him to see me in my “yucky”-ness, has either kept me out of some things or has caused an earnest repentence in me, to turn me back to Him.
Katie
======= Jenny:
I LOVE Numbers 6:24-26! “The Lord bless thee, and keep thee. the Lord make His face to shine upon thee. and be gracious unto thee, and be gracious unto thee. the Lord lift up, his countenance upon thee and give thee peace.” (KJV)
I’m singing it! It’s been the closing song at my church for as many yrs as I can remember so I can say these are maybe my most quoted verses! I LOVE it!!!
Verses 9-12 in psalms 49 stood out for me.
This is very critical, “no man can redeem his brother.” Salvation is individual and personal. No one is born into true Christianity. We may be raised in a Christian home, but at one point each one of us has to decide for ourselves if we want to follow Jesus and then be born again. Christianity is the only ‘religion’ where every single person who is truly a believer is a convert. All other world religions you can be born into. You can’t simply convert outwardly (say, to appease someone else). It’s a heart issue, one needs to repent, have a change of heart, be in submission to God, be baptized in the Spirit. This is all very personal and we cannot do this for anyone else nor can anyone do this for us. (a pastor once said, you cant ride into heaven hanging on to someone else’s coattails!).
Aww, that lamb picture is cute, poor lamby! I know it’s symbolic of course, and yes God has snatched me from the powers of death, physically and more importantly, spiritually.
Prov. “Fear of the LORD lengthens one’s life, but the years of the wicked are cut short.”
I had a Q about this one a few wks ago that my brothers, sisters helped me with…fortunately I’m not in such a negative state.
Anyhow, this is a tough one because I know many evil people have lived long lives and many godly people have had short lives. Now, this could be taken eternally, we physically die, but our spirits continue on living, whereas the wicked experience two deaths.
Or this could be signifying that godly people will live more wisely, more cautiously and won’t partake in activities such as excessive drinking, drug use, promiscuity…all of which can shorten our lives. But we live in a fallen world. Many ungodly who do these behaviors have outlived believers by many years who do none of these and fear God. Its very important that we know that sickness is not related to a lack of faith as some faith teachers claim. They may say if we have faith we wont get sick or be poor, etc. This is very much against God’s word, but I don’t want to get into a tangent here so I better stop.
Jenny
======= Gina:
It took me a while to understand the fear of the Lord also…but when I finally got it, I saw God in such a different way! He is to be revered – we should be in awe of His holiness. Sometimes I think we can forget just how Holy God really is. I’m like you Jenny, when I hear people talk about God kind of flipantly…the “man upstairs”…. I get a sort of a righteous anger in me that wants to scream God is HOLY – the creater of the universe – the savoir of the world – not some “the man upstairs”!
The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.” – I love this also! It reminds me of a song that we used to sing when I was in grade school. But it also reminds me that God is always with us. He is always waiting to shine on us and through us. His peace is always there if we accept it.
I’ve always loved the story of the widow giving all she has. Her heart was so pure and it’s a reminder to me to do a heart check too!
Gina
======= Mae:
I like the question of the day …
Do you agree that the fear of the Lord lengthens your life? Why or why not? Do you think fear of the Lord is a good thing? Why or why not? Also, what verses or insights stand out to you in today’s readings? ~ I fear the Lord … I’m not scared of Him, but I do fear Him. A healthy fear that keeps me going. Indeed it lengthens my life. So yes, it’s a good thing for me. I actually keep it in mind constantly … I never forget 1 Samuel 12:24 “But be sure to fear the Lord and faithfully serve him. Think of all the wonderful things he has done for you”. I read what you wrote, Jenny & Gina, about people who refere to the Lord as “The big guy” or “My pal” … he saved us! He gave His son to pay for our sins! He deserves more respect than just being ‘the big guy’. That can be your friend at work or at school, but not our Heavenly Father! Yes, I fear the Lord, I love Him, serve Him … but I do fear Him. I love Him so much, I don’t want to dissapoint Him … Psalm 2:11 “Serve the Lord with reverent fear,and rejoice with trembling” and Psalm 25:14 “The Lord is a friend to those who fear him.He teaches them his covenant”. It’s okay to fear … it doesn’t mean that you’re scared of Him.
Mae
======= Katie:
Awesome! I feel like I’ve been to an awesome service!!!
Katie
======= Laverne:
Fantastic comments all…..
Laverne
======= Helen:
Thanks for these continued devotions Mike.
By the Numbers and Mark readings I was just reminded how God knows all that we give Him.
Blessings,
Helen
======= Julie:
MercyMe also has a song with this blessing. I love it when musicians old (hymns) & new put God’s word into their songs for those of us that are newer Christians but the best part is recognizing it from my studies! Same here with the photos you post when I reread the scriptures those photos remind me & I remember God’s word.
Thanks for your blog.
Julie
======= Margaret:
In Numbers, I am reminded that God is the “God of details”. God details for Moses exactly how Nazarites should act and how Moses should judge Nazarites who disobey. I was particularly amazed when God added what to do if a person dies beside a Nazarite.
In response to your question, I don’t think obedience to God necessarily gives us a long life on earth. That would mean that a baby who dies, had disobeyed God and I don’t believe that. BUT obedience to God gives us eternal life.
Margaret
======= James:
Margaret makes a very good point but talks about life on this earth from only a chronological point of view. Alas, most people grow older but not up – becoming adults while still reacting to the world as small children. The “trick” to living a long life in wisdom and maturity is the fear of God. As such, any child that truly loves their parents will fear them more than any slave. This is both a physically real fear as well as great respect. If I had ever talked to my mother even on her death bed the way that children commonly get away with talking to their parents today I would have rightly feared what she would have paid someone to do to me. People always like to suggest that working out a compromise is better than such “win-lose” situations in daily relationships, but top negotiators and psychiatrists (like Dr. Schnarch, the most respected relationship counselor) all say, “Compromise is the tyranny of the lowest common denominator.” Fear (and respect) is a two way street and anything else is tyranny (so says science).
Moreover, an infant cannot express a belief, a confession, a sorrow, call on the Lord, make a decision to accept Jesus as Lord and Savior, or demonstrate an outpouring of the Holy Spirit… and so we all see a different path (or loop hole) to salvation for them… and most of us see a different story that the Catholic suggestion that an infant can be “freed from the power of darkness” only through infant baptism… and so, it is not valuable to speak of infants when discussing the only path to righteousness (that includes fear) available to the rest of us – today, here and now. Spirituality is wholly about a dynamic interconnected life-affirming approach to LIVING IN THE MOMENT (Trott, 1996)… while religion is about doctrines, rituals, and creeds. So, fear is a godly relationship characteristic only valuable to our here and now. We don’t fear God to get into heaven, we fear God to get closer to Him now.
James
======= Anka:
The difference I believe about God and gods is that our God is not one we can manipulate but one that we have to submit to…Fearing God is accepting Him as God…not just another god in our lives that can just appear when we need him…then disappear when we can make it on our own…The fear of God is the beginning of wisdom
Anka
======= Lisa:
The verse that stands out to me today is:
Former
Numbers 7:89 (NLT 2nd Edition)
Whenever Moses went into the Tabernacle to speak with the Lord, he heard the voice speaking to him from between the two cherubim above the Ark’s cover—the place of atonement—that rests on the Ark of the Covenant. The Lord spoke to him from there.
Which now brings me to the next few verses:
Latter
Hebrews 1:1-2a (Amplified Bible)
1-IN MANY separate revelations [each of which set forth a portion of the Truth] and in different ways God spoke of old to [our] forefathers in and by the prophets,
2-[But] in the last of these days He has spoken to us in [the person of a] Son, Whom He appointed Heir and lawful Owner of all things, …
John 1:14 (Amplified Bible)
14-And the Word (Christ) became flesh (human, incarnate) and tabernacled (fixed His tent of flesh, lived awhile) among us; and we [actually] saw His glory (His honor, His majesty), such glory as an only begotten son receives from his father, full of grace (favor, loving-kindness) and truth.
Isn’t it amazing how the S’hekinah of God tabernacled (dwelt) in the Ark of the Covenant.
Now he tabernacles with us through His Holy Spirit, by the blood of the Lamb.
Hebrews 4:16 (NLT 2nd Edition)
16-So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most.
Rejoice in the Lord Always!
Lisa
======= Rakesh:
hi thanx for ur blog…its awesome….yes the fear of the Lord increases life…we will live eternally……and tht pic of the lost sheep touched me deep inside…..I was reminded of the song by casting crowns….and now my lifesong sings
Rakesh
======= Elizabeth:
Hello,
Well, still here slogging through Numbers. I love the Aaronic Blessing though–it’s one of my favorite passages in the Bible. I used to sing it over our oldest daughter when she went to bed at night. I think it succinctly captures a right perspective toward God and man. Though we may wish others well, we have no power within ourselves to ordain anything in the lives of others. This is why it drives me nuts when I tell someone who doesn’t know the Lord that I have been praying about such and such situation in their lives and they respond with “I appreciate your kind thoughts”–what in the world does THAT mean?? My thoughts alone don’t have the power to do squat! Indeed, it is He who blesses us, keeps us, grants us peace despite our circumstances (bad or good). I think it just illustrates the disconnect from a secular man-controls perspective and a God-fearing perspective. Anyway….
I particularly love the image of “make His face shine upon us”–reminds me of sitting outside on a spring day with the sun warm on my face–how you instinctively turn your face into that warmth. God’s love is like that–how lovely the warmth of His face shining in our lives.
Elizabeth
======== Stephanie:
I just wanted to thank you for this blog. Its been a real blessing to me. I’ve been struggling to get back into the word everyday and now, with this blog, have been looking forward to it. Thank you! And God Bless you!
Stephanie
======= Jennifer:
I am really enjoying this blog. I listen to the readings on the Daily Audio Bible and then come here to gain more insight. I love the artwork and videos here, too. Thank you for helping me to stay on track with my Bible reading.
Jennifer
======= Eric:
I just wanted to share with everyone the goodness of the Lord and testify to His Power – over the past few days I have been struggling with feelings of hurt and anger with the leadership of my church about the way in which they handled something with me. I knew the devil was trying to plant a root of bitterness in me to destroy the love I have for my brothers and sisters, and I knew I did not want this to happen. I cried out to the Lord to help me, because in my natural self I was hurt and unable to forgive. When I read the Aaronic blessing in todays reading I knew the Lord was telling me to say this for the people who hurt me. (We always say this blessing in our church each Sunday and as I said it I pictured all those people) – as I pronounced the blessing, all my feelings of anger and hurt just melted away, and I was deeply aware of the SPirit of GOd working in me in power and I just want to Give glory to God for this, I know it was his power by the Holy Spirit working this in me as I obeyed his teaching. I want to give encouragement to all, that the Lord is a very present help in times of danger, and when we submit to his will me really does transform us into his likeness – what a victory! Thank you Jesus xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx His work is living and active! Praise His NAme.
Eric
======= Tom:
The year was 1955 and I became part of a Choir at the High School I was attending and the “Aaronic Blessing” became a significant part of my life. This was a signature piece of music for our choir. It has been a valuable part of my life and in how I serve the Lord. How often we forget to offer a blessing on all those around us. May the Lord Bless you and keep you, is all that need be said and your world will change.
In His service,
Tom
======= Sheena
I have to agree, because I believe every word of the bible is true, although I’m not sure how would lengthen your physical life. Maybe it’s referring to our eternal life – if we fear God, we will spend our eternity in life with him. I think fear of the Lord is a good thing, something not taught well today. We don’t fear God just for being God – being a great, powerful, omniscient God. We live like there are no consequences for our actions, or as if we’re only worried about the human, earthly consequences (is there a law against it? will so and so be mad at me?). I also think we have lost our awe and wonder of God. It’s good that we can come to him as our Father, but again, we’ve lost that feeling of smallness and reverance.
Sheena
======= Steve:
Mark 12:43-44 Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. 44 They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.
This verse stood out because the poor widow represents the believer that gives all of his life to the Lord unlike the believer that gives his life to the Lord out of his surplus time and surplus energy. We’re either all in or we’re out. Lukewarm doesn’t make the cut.
IF we’re all in then Psalm 49:1-3 sums up how we feel about the word of God. “Listen to this, all you people! Pay attention, everyone in the world! High and low, rich and poor–listen! For my words are wise, and my thoughts are filled with insight.”
I think that reading and studying God’s word everyday makes it a lot easier to be all in. Whenever I find myself drifting, it’s usually because I haven’t been reading my bible for a few days.
Steve
====== Neil:
I agree with Ramona that we confine our life as only during this lifetime. My friend has lymphatic cancer and is a Christian and like all of us has sometimes gone through questioning times with God but we both know that God is faithful and while our bodies will fail, we shall be redeemed and restored due to God’s grace. I love that blessing in Numbers 6 and will surely memorise that today.
God bless,
Neil
======= Reuben:
As a postscript to Ramona’s comment about Numbers 7, there was already some disparity among the tribes in numbers, wealth, and standing (think of the four tribes who represented each quafrant), but the equality of gifts which was likely directed by God as part of verse 11 shows that equal standing before him.
She made a great tie-in to the NT passage.
Reuben
======== Frederick:
Mark 12:42-44
42 But a poor widow came and put in two very small copper coins, worth only a few cents.
43 Calling his disciples to him, Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, this poor widow has put more into the treasury than all the others. 44 They all gave out of their wealth; but she, out of her poverty, put in everything—all she had to live on.”
Jesus commended on the poor widow’s offering. I heard a sermon some years ago that the widow donated two copper coins. She had little and yet when she had two copper coins, she donated both. Her faith and her deed truly deserved Jesus’ commendation.
Frederick
======= Jill:
Ramona, I believe we need to fear The Lord out of a reverence and awe of Him. Not the type of fear where we run from him. We need to tell people how beautiful Heaven is gonna be to make then wanna be there. But also to know that eternity is forever And we want to spend it in a Heaven.
Mike, I pray the Numbers verses over my granddaughter when I watch her. It is my fav passage.
Somebody told me you shouldn’t bless yourself. well I tend to disagree. I found asking God to bless your life that you can in return bless others is a good prayer. I love Numbers 26:24-26. Its a good illustration to follow.
I think of what we can give to God. He wants our best. All we have is from him anyway. He has blessed us with life abundantly so we give back. and he will reward us. I’m thankful the rich heritage my parents gave me that I can pass on to the next generation!
Psalms 49:1-3 Being filled with Gods wisdom. You we all have the knowledge in our head but until it connects to the heart, its hasn’t become activated. Once it gets to the heart it becomes wisdom. Thats where the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge!
Blessings,
Jill
======= Chris:
Mar 13:7 And when ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars, be ye not troubled: for such things must needs be; but the end shall not be yet.
We are at just such a concern today, with Israel, Syria, Iran, Iraq, and also with Russia and the Ukraine. It seems everyone is rattling their sabers today. But I am reminded of the scripture again when Jesus was talking to Peter, and I am reminded of what Jesus said earlier and here again in Mark:
Mar 13:13 And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake: but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.
Praying that we all shall endure unto the end…
Chris
======= Judie:
I did not know that Numbers 6:24-26 was named the Aaronic Blessing. I learned those words decades ago when I sang in the junior choir in church, and sang it off and on throughout the years in choir as a prayer response or benediction, although the tune was a different one from today’s video. It is dear to my heart because it has been with me throughout my lifetime. I often say or sing this blessing when I am praying for people I know who are living troubled lives.
Judie
======= Lee:
SO glad you posted John Rutter’s “The Lord Bless You and Keep You.” My thoughts went to that very anthem which I have sung often in a choir. As I read your comments on the Aaronic Blessing, i was going to include a link for a version of it in my comments until a short while later, there it was, included in your comments! Thank you for that inspiring version done by young people.
As I was reading, I was blessed, sensing God had answered my request to be nourished spiritually in this early morning hour for the day ahead; I claim God’s promises to be blessed, to be be kept in His sight and presence, to be surrounded by His radiance and graciousness, and to wear His garment of peace.
That blessing comprised the final words of the wedding service of my life partner and myself. In our home is an oval mirror with the text of the Blessing painted on its surface, reminding us each time we gaze in the mirror how much God loves us, and how gracious a gift is His peace in our lives.
“I am leaving you with a gift-
peace of mind and heart.
And the peace I give
is a gift the world cannot give.
So don’t be troubled
or afraid.”
John 14:27
NLT
Lee
======= Dee:
There is so much good comments today, I don’t know where to begin! Numbers Aaronic Blessing is indeed a beautiful one: I think the only thing we can add to it that others didn’t really say above is: when you pray and speak these words into others lives, don’t forget that God is speaking to YOU also, so when you are praying in the mornings, remember to ask the Lord to Bless You, Protect You, and His face to smile upon You, and be gracious to You today, The Lords favor be on You, and give You peace. You can replace the you with your direct name. God likes personal prayers as well as praying for others. Always remember You are loved and needed in the Fathers work and He isn’t a respector of persons so whether, rich, or poor, short or tall, big or small, Come one, Call all, for the Harvest is Ripe, Fields are plentiful and ready for harvesting and entering that precious seed of the Word of God into the Lost and dying world!!
Be Blessed,
Dee
