A Number of Mistakes

O. T. #367  "A Number of Mistakes"
Sept. 18, 2014
Summary of Numbers
... not one except Caleb son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite and Joshua son of Num, for they followed the LORD wholeheartedly.  Numbers 32:12 NIV

There is so much that happened in this book of the Bible. Are we ready to learn from Israel's mistakes and sins? God had Moses write them down for our benefit. Will we heed the Word of God, His instructions, doing things His way? Or will the story of our life contain a number of mistakes, our rebellion, and sins?

Shall we review what happened in the book of Numbers before we continue into Deuteronomy?
We know that Moses wrote their goings out according to their journeys by the commandment of the LORD. (33:2a)

It was a written reminder of what God had done for his people, His intervention, and physical battles.
Falwell tells us that the Pentateuch, first five book of the Bible, was written between 1450 B.C. and 1410 B. C. Very little detail is given of the 38 years of wanderings. Emphasis is placed on the significant events, not the extent of time.

Something noteable is that the word wilderness is used 48 times in this book. The Hebrew title for this book is "in the wilderness."  (MacArthur)

The MacArthur Bible Commentary informs us of the setting:

• Encamped at Mt. Sinai, the Lord entered into the Mosaic covenant with Israel. (Ex.19-24)
• Israel traveled from Sinai to Kadesh. (Num. 10:11-12:16)
• Events took place in and around Kadesh, located in the wilderness of Paran. (Num.12:16-13:26)
• then in the wilderness of Zin (13:21-20:1)
• Israel traveled to the plains of Moab (20:14-22:1)
• All the events of 22:2-36:13 occurred while Israel was encamped in the plain to the north of Moab. This was a flat and fertile piece of land in the middle of the wasteland.

Three theological themes permeate Numbers:

1. The Lord communicate to Israel through Moses, so the words of Moses had divine authority. Israel's responses to Moses mirrored her: Obedience (chapters 1-10), disobedience (chapters 11-25), and renewed obedience (chapters 26-36).
2. The Lord is the God of judgment. His anger was aroused when Israel sinned.
3. The faithfulness of the Lord to keep His promise given to the seed of Abraham, the land of Canaan. (MacArthur)

I will try to highlight some events during this time in Israel's history:

At Mt. Sinai:

• Back in Exodus 32, Israel had committed a terrible sin, made a golden calf, bowed down and worshiped it instead of remaining faithful to worship God. After the calf was destroyed, Moses asked whoever was on the Lord's side to come stand with him. Levi and his tribe did. We see the Lord honoring the faithfulness and loyalty of Levi when He chose the Levitical tribe to be the priesthood of Israel. Aaron was appointed the first high priest and his son Eleazar replaced him. What a blessing for this tribe!
• Cleansing, consecration, and commission is called for Israel. We read about the separation when the Nazarite vow is established. Those who followed it included Samson, Samuel, John the Baptist, and Paul. (Although Christ was a citizen of Nazareth, He was not a Nazarene.) This vow involved no grapes or wine, not cutting hair, no contact with a dead body.
• We read about the purity, separation, leaders, dedication of Levites, and the Passover in chapters 10-14.

To Kadesh-Barenea:

• There were 20 stops along the way there. There was moving, murmuring, and missed opportunities.
• The major event was the 12 spies' reports-10 said they couldn't conquer the Promised Land, but Caleb and Joshua said they could. The congregation lacked faith in God and refused to go, which resulted in 40 years in the wilderness, with death of the older generation. Those age 20 and up died there, while the younger and new generation, along with Moses, Caleb, and Joshua, go to see it. (Moses did not get to enter, but died before hand.)
• We can't forget the lessons of Balaam and his talking donkey.

To the East Bank of Jordan:

• Legislation, leaders, Levites were reestablished.
• The land of Moab was conquered and the Midianites were destroyed by Israel.
• Offerings and vows to God were renewed.
• Drive out the inhabitants of the land of Canaan, destroy their idols, and divide the land by casting lots.
• Instruction on the dividing of the land of Canaan, with the tribes of Gad, Reuben, and half of Manasseh.  

A few notable verses NIV:
Numbers 14:17-18:  The LORD is slow to anger, abounding in love and forgiving sin and rebellion. Yet He does not leave the guilty unpunished; He punishes the children for the sin of the fathers to the third and fourth generation.

Numbers 11:23:  Is the LORD's arm too short? You will now see whether or not what I say will come true for you.

Numbers 32:23:  But if you fail to do this, you will be sinning against the LORD; and you may be sure that your sin will find you out.


Read the key verse again. The question to ask ourself today is this, "am I following God wholeheardedly?"
Wholeheartedly in the Hebrew means to be complete or full.

Caleb's heart was  undivided and filled with faith. His report was made according to his convictions, certain that God would take the land. God could be trusted. Caleb obeyed God's instructions.

LET IT GO

Repent of my sins.

Obey God wholeheartedly.

Follow HIs leadings.

What If

O. T. #366  "What If"
Sept. 17, 2014
Numbers 36
And if they...  Numbers 36:3

LET IT GLOW

Can't we spend all our time, energy, and thoughts focused on the what if's in this world and in our life? What if my husband or children die young? What if my business fails? What if I loose my home? What if I get a deadly or debilitating disease? What if we loose our freedoms? What if..? What if...?
There comes a time when we have to lay it down at the feet of Jesus and let Him solved the problem or possible situation. I must not waste my time dwelling on those worries, but live by faith today for Him. Israel did that in this chapter.

The question came up again. The leaders of the tribes raised the question concerning those women. They were talking about the five daughters of Zelophehad, who was of the tribe of Manasseh, so of Joseph. You may recall that Ze had no son to inherit his land, so God Himself gave it to Ze's girls. (Numbers 27:11)

So these leaders presented a "what if" situation dealing with this tribe. If these daughters married into another tribe, the original tribe's land would be depleted. All that the gal owned would be given to her husband and family. Sounds to me like these leaders were more concerned with "the land" than with the tribe staying pure.

Since a tribe would lose an allotted inheritance in the year of Jubilee if an inheriting woman had married into another tribe, the woman of any tribe who inherited land must marry within her own tribe.  (MacArthur)

Again, the LORD was a problem-solver. In verse 6, the daughters of Zelophehad were instructed:
Let them marry to whom they think best; only to the family of the tribe of their father shall they marry.

It was permissible that she could marry her cousin on her father's side of the family. This was permissible back then, but not advisable today. God Himself had directed this, so how could the gals do otherwise? If this is done now days, the children might have mental problems do to the close relations, the DNA. Besides, Gentiles have such a wide choice in the world today that they should not need to marry a close relative. I would think that it would be frowned upon.

The point is, do we do what God directs us to do?

LET IT GROW

Numbers began with the children of Israel being in the wilderness and finishes as close to the Promised Land as you can get without actually being there.  (Guzik)

Here they are, camped in the plains of Moab, beside the Jordan River, near Jericho. The old generation was passed away, except for Moses, Caleb, and Joshua, and those under age twenty when the wilderness journey began.  This was the new generation would have similar problems, but they did have faith to follow God into the land He promised their ancestors to give them.

Many Christians die in their wilderness because they will not trust God and will not enter into what He has set before them. They came this far by faith, and would need faith to take them the rest of the way.  (Guzik)

What happens to our faith while we experience our wilderness? Does our faith continue to grow stronger in God or do we fall by the wayside? I pray that we will continue to read the Word, obey it, and experience God's love and peace with a growing faith.


LET IT GO

Let go of complaining, murmuring, and rebellion, and the fleshly desires.

Let go and let God.

Trust and obey Him.

Christ is Our Refuge

O. T. #365  "Christ is Our Refuge"
Sept. 16, 2014
Numbers 35-Part 2
These six cities shall be a refuge, both for the children of Israel, and for the stranger, and for the sojourner among them: that every one that killeth any person unawares may flee thither.
Numbers 35:15

LET IT GLOW

Last time we discussed the cities of refuge which the Israelites could use for protection is they killed someone, accidently or otherwise, and an avenger was seeking restitution before their trial.

Here is some added information:

• Israel was instructed to build and maintain proper roads to these 6 cities of refuge? (Deut. 19:3)
• Even a stranger  could take refuge in such a city. (verse 15)
• One witness was not enough to condemn a murderer to death, for it was insufficient testimony. (verse 30) (1 Timothy 5:19)
• A killing polluted the land, but it was atoned whenever the murderer was put to death. (verse 33)

LET IT GROW

How was Christ and a city of refuge similar? How is Christ our refuge?
Both:

• were appointed by God;
• announced in the Word;
• were accessible to all;
• easy to reach;
• a place where one in need could live;
• provided protection within their boundaries;
• gave full freedom when the death of the High Priest occurred.

[Resources: Wiersbe's Expository Outlines on the Old Testament, David Guzik's Commentary on the Bible]

Do we flee to Jesus Christ for our refuge? Or do we go to something else?

LET IT GO

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.  Psalm 46:1

Go to Him when in need.

Where is Our Refuge?

O. T. #364  "Where is Our Refuge?
Sept. 15, 2014
Numbers 35
God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.  Psalm 46:1

LET IT GLOW

When we are overwhelmed by things happening in our life, in times of trouble, where do we go for our refuge? There are so many options which people run to for comfort, escape, help-drugs, alcohol, friends, work. God wants to be our refuge, our strength, our help in time of trouble. He stretches out His hand and bids us to come to Him. Those who are burdened and heavy laden, come. Find rest in Jesus.

You will recall that the Levite tribe, those of the priesthood, were not allowed to inherit land when Israel came into Canaan, the Promised Land. However, God allowed them to live in 48 cities throughout the land. This was so they could teach the law to the tribes and exert spiritual influence on them (Joshua 13:33; Deut. 18:1-2). Also, the Levites were given suburbs around each city for the grazing of their cattle, for their goods, and all their beasts. (verse 2)

A suburb was defined as open country whither flocks are driven for pasture; hence the area around a building, or the margin of the sea.

I don't recall reading the word suburb in the Bible, do you? Our modern suburbs are different. People live in the suburbs of large cities, but the grass is scarce. Often there is only a few feet of grass in the front or back yard around each house. I suppose folks are happy to live that way, but it is not for me.

Are we willing to take the gospel to the suburbs? Are we willing to move there to be a witness or missionary? Humm.

LET IT GROW

This chapter not only discusses suburbs, but it also talks about the cities of refuge. What are they?

Wiersbe's Expository Outlines on the Old Testament explains:

• Six cities were appointed, with 3 on each side of the Jordan River, to be such.
• Since Israel had no police force, the elders in each city constituted a "court" to consider capital crimes.
• If a person accidently killed another person, without murderous intent, called manslaughter, then they needed some kind of protection was needed for that person. The elders would meet him, hear his case, and hold a trial. If it was clear that the slaying was accidental, then the person would be allowed to live in the city under their protection. The avenger of blood could not touch such a one.
• If the person was guilty of murder, he would be turned over to the proper authorities and then slain (Deut. 19:11-13).
• If the person left the city of refuge, he could be slain.
• When the high priest died, the person would be free to return to his own city safely.
• This law was given to prevent uncondemned murderers living throughout the nation, thus leading Israel into deeper sin.

God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Psalm 46:1
In Hebrew, this refuge means a cliff; a high fort, defense.

Be merciful unto me, O God, be merciful unto me: for my soul trusteth in thee: yea, in the shadow of thy wings will I make my refuge, until these calamities be overpast. Psalm 57:1
This refuge means to flee for protection; to confide in: have hope, put trust.

In God is my salvation and my glory: the rock of my strength, and my refuge, is in
God. Psalm 62:7
Refuge is a shelter; hope, trust. (Same definition for the following verses.)

I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I
trust. Psalm 91:2


I cried unto thee, O LORD: I said, Thou art my refuge and my portion in the land of the living.  Psalm 142:5

Saul and his army of 3,000 Israelites were pursuing David to take his life. As David trusted in God's protection, he lived through it all, about 12 years worth.

Is God our defense, protection, hope, shelter, in whom we trust?
Will we find our refuge in our God or in something else? He awaits, friend, with open arms.

LET IT GO
                    ...and run to Jesus for my refuge.

Boundaries

O. T. #363  "Boundaries"
Sept. 12, 2014
Numbers 34
Command the children of Israel and say unto them, When ye come into the land of Canaan: (this is the land that shall fall unto you for an inheritance, even the land of Canaan with the coasts thereof:)  Numbers 34:2

LET IT GLOW

When we bought our farm, after inheriting half, we had to have it surveyed. The guy put down markers in the ground at the four corners to mark the boundaries. Our fences were to not go beyond those markers so everything was correct. Actually, the back fence was moved to its incorrect placement years earlier. Israel was given boundaries for what would be their land after it was conquered. Shall we look into it?

We read where God gave the eastern bank of Jordan to the 2 1/2 tribes. Moses is instructed on the boundaries of the land in Canaan to be distributed among the other tribes of Israel. Only for a brief time was this area occupied; it was during the reigns of David and Solomon.

According to Strong's Exhaustive Concordance, quarter means direction, region, side; border refers to a boundary; the territory enclosed: border, landmark, coast, quarter, space.

The borders of the Promised Land went from the Dead Sea to the Mediterranean Sea, including the Hermon mountain range and the Jordan Valley from the Sea of Galilee to the Dead Sea.

God gave precise instruction to Israel concerning the boundaries of the land of Canaan. Sadly, the actual conquest of the land fell far short of these boundaries.  (MacArthur)

When God sets boundaries for us as His children, do we stay within them? Or do we fall short? do we go outside of those limits He establishes, only to regret it later? He has specific instructions for us so we protect our witness, our family, our church. He wants to keep us from being hurt, straying off into sin, bringing others with us. God warns us about covetousness, adultery, idolatry, fornication. He wants the best for us.
Are we determined to obey those instructions, staying within the boundaries He sets? We will be blessed it we do. Our children will follow God's Word and serve Him. Our business will honor Him and prosper. Our church will be a lighthouse in the community.

LET IT GROW

When it was time to distribute the land of Canaan, it was to be done by the casting of lots under the supervision of 12 appointed men. Among these were Eleazar the high priest, Joshua, and one leader from each tribe left without land.

Do we trust our leaders in our church to make the right decisions? Are we praying for God's guidance for them? How about our husband? Are we praying for the decisions he makes for our family? Are we ready to follow them?
Are we content to live within the boundaries which God has established for us or are we rebellious, going our own way?


LET IT GO

 Read God's Word so I know what boundaries by which He has established for me to live.

Stay within those boundaries.

Be content to live within those boundaries.

Remember When and Where

O. T. #362  "Remember When and Where"
Sept. 11, 2014
Numbers 33
Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, When ye are passed over Jordan into the land of Canaan: Numbers 33:51

Praying for the families who lost loved ones on 9-11 when the Twin Towers were attacked and brought down.
Do you recall where you were when it happened?

LET IT GLOW

When our family is talking about a certain time that a particular thing happened, I think back to where we lived at that specific time. Then I recall which years we lived there. That helps me to remember when something occurred. To my best recollection, we have lived in 18 various places since we moved off to college in 1980 until now. You understand, my madness, don't you? Some places our son would not remember, since he was less than two years old when we first moved. The people, activities, and churches hold vivid memories for me. It may have been that way for Moses and some of the Israelites.

This long chapter is where Moses listed the 40 stops between Egypt and Moab that the Israelites made. These places would have been the camps where they stayed during their forty year journey through the wilderness. Looks like they averaged about one place a year, though it may not have happened that way. This younger generation, who conquered Moab and were presently living there may not have had memories of all of the places they lived, camped.

Some of the names would have brought back vivid memories.  (Falwell)

We may consider the whole book of Numbers as a diary, and indeed the first book of travels ever published. (Clarke)

When you add Egypt and Moab into the forty places, they total 42, as they rested at the shore of the Jordan River. When they crossed over Jordan, they entered the rest (later) of the Promised Land. Similarly, there are 42 generations from Abraham unto Christ, the Promised Messiah and Savior.

Do you have special events in your life that you can recall the time and place it happened?


LET IT GROW

I am not going into those many places where Israel pitched their tents. Certainly crossing the Red Sea and camped at Mount Sinai would have been highlights. Also, it was a memorable journey which would have involved drought, desert, fiery serpents, pits, an earthquake, squabbles, and death. Through it all, God was faithful to provide for their needs, even their shoes and clothes did not wear out. Time after time God showed His love and mercy, as well as His judgment to His chosen children.

Here are four commands God gave Israel as well as a two-fold warning:

1. When they passed over Jordan, they were to drive out the inhabitants of the land of Canaan.(In verse 52, there was no command by God to carry out a mass slaughter of the Canaanites. Falwell)
2. They were to destroy all their carved images and their cast idols, and demolish all their high places. (verse 52)
3. Take possession of the land and settle in it, the land which God gave them to possess. (verse 53)
4. Distribute the land by lot according to their clans. The larger groups got a more land; smaller groups got less land.

The warnings of what would happen if Israel did not drive out the inhabitants, disobeying God's instructions included:

1. The inhabitants would become pricks, barbs, in Israel's eyes. A prick is a brier as a hedge.
2. They would be thorns in Israel's sides.
3. They would give Israel trouble in the land where they live.
4. God would do to Israel what He planned to do to them.

If Israel failed to obey God, she would be the object of God's punishment in exactly the same way as the Canaanites were. (MacArthur)

For a brief time during the reigns of David and Solomon Israel possessed this area. Then came the Syrians, Babylonians, Medes and Persians to take over, due to Israel's idolatry. And we know the rest of the story. The 400 years of silence between the Old Testament and New Testament, the Romans and Greeks ruling and Jews were scattered. However, since 1948, Israel has been a nation once again.

Are we warning people of judgment to come? What about the love and mercy and salvation of Jesus?
Are we standing up against sin in our society?

LET IT GO

Remember all the good and bad I have experienced; how God delivered us from my sins.

Follow God's Word and Spirit.

Be a faithful warrior growing in faith and love.

Pray for Israel, our military, our leaders, and God's protection and direction now.

To Stay or to Go

O. T. #361 "To Stay or to Go"
Sept. 10, 2014
Numbers 32-Part 3
We will pass over armed before the LORD into the land of Canaan, that the possession of our inheritance on this side Jordan my be ours.   Numbers 32:32

LET IT GLOW

I may have already shared our dilemma-to stay in our home town and home church, near family, or go away to college for the ministry. My husband waited too long to make the decision to go and the fall semester began. Finally, I started packing, after enduring much stuff due to this waiting around. He agreed that we must step out on faith and follow God's leading to a particular Baptist college located 6 hours from our family. So we made the needed preparations, said our good byes, then moved our stuff and our two preschoolers with us. God was faithful in providing us a house to rent near campus, me a job, him with classes and work study. Then the end of the semester came and the final tuition payment had to be paid before my husband could take finals. God provided. We were so blessed and taken care of by our heavenly Father. We went to do His will and His will went before us. We experienced God's provisions and working in so many wonderful ways. Had we stayed instead of going, we would have missed out on them all. Trust and obey, for there is no other way, to be happy in Jesus, than to trust and obey.
Two tribes of Israel had the same dilemma.

We have discussed how the two tribes of Gad and Reuben request permission for them to stay on the east side of the Jordan River and not cross over whenever the rest of the Israelites do.  Moses included some stipulations if they were going to stay instead of go. These were agree upon, with the warning that if they do not do so, they would be sinning against the LORD, and their sins would find them out. Moses was urging them to carefully and completely fulfill their obligations.

The two tribes committed themselves to provide their warriors for the conquest of the land. Non-participation would be sin and God would certainly find and judge the tribes for their sin. (MacArthur)

How seriously do we take our agreements we make with others? How about our commitments with God? Is it a lie if we don't do what we say we will do, keep our agreements, commitments? A lie is a sin. I have not considered this before now.


LET IT GROW

The tribe of Manasseh wasted no time in joining the two tribes of Gad and Reuben once their agreement was made. (2 Kings 17) All three joined together in seeking land in that territory. From the Amorites Manasseh took Gilead (verse 39).

Verses 39-42 indicate that Manasseh conquered cities not yet taken and settled in the northern area of Gilead. (MacArthur)

As I said before, the Assyrian invasion of Israel, in 732 B.C., began with the captivity of the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh (1 Chron. 5:26).

To stay or go. Are we often confronted with that dilemma? There are times that our heart may say one and the Lord says the other. To which will we listen?


LET IT GO

...of the things which hold me back from going where and when God leads me to fulfill His purpose.

Whenever God tells me to stay, then stay where He placed me; wherever He says to go, then go.

Keep my focus and eyes on Jesus and ears open to His voice.

Live by faith, not by sight.

Tell of the wonderful things God does for me and give Him the glory.

Are Are You Settling for Second Best or God's Perfect Best?

O. T. #360  "Are You Settling for Second Best or God's Perfect Best?
Sept. 9, 2014
Numbers 32-Part 2
But if you fail to do this, you will be sinning against the LORD, and you may be sure that your sin will find you out.  Numbers 32:23

LET IT GLOW

As a child, did you ever try to hid something from your parents? Something you did wrong and they would not approve nor be happy about? Yes, I have done those things as a teenager, lying and deceiving my parents, using my friends when making up stories to cover my sins. Ouch! Eventually, the truth came out. I had to admit my sins, my wrongs. Yes, my sins found me out. It was not a pretty picture they painted of me, either.
My way was not the best way. The path I was on was wrong for me. My parents were trying to guide me and protect me from bad mistakes I could have regretted  for the rest of my life. I thank God for wise parents. With His help, I didn't settle for second best nor a big mess in my life. It was His perfect best that He gave to me, though I had to wait for it. I am forever thankful. I am so blessed with God's perfect best for my life!

We left the two tribes of Gad and Reuben requesting to stay in the land where Israel was already living. It was the land they had already conquered from Moab. The land was good for grazing and they had herds of livestock which needed grazing. These guys were living by sight and not by faith. They desired what was easy, not enduring the hard times, not wanting to fight enemies for a land they had not seen, to obtain God's perfect best for them. They settled for second best.

For what do we settle? Are we willing to fight for what we know is God's perfect best for us or second best? Of course, it may require faith and to be in a spiritual fight. Remember, God gave victory to the Israelites in some of the most unusual ways.

What did Moses warn these two tribes?
If they turned away from following God, He would again leave all this people in the desert, and you will be the cause of their destruction. It would be a life or death situation if Gad and Reuben tribes turned away and did not obey God's instructions. If they bowed down to other gods and worshiped them instead, they would be destroyed.  (Deut. 30:17-18)

Do we warn our loved ones who turn to their own ways and desires, away from following God?

LET IT GROW

How did the tribes of Gad and Reuben respond to Moses' warning?

• We would like to build pens for our livestock.
• We want to build fortified cities for their women and children's protection while we are gone helping Israel.
• We are ready to arm ourselves and go ahead of the Israelites until we have brought them to their place.
• We give up any right to inheritance of land on the other side of Jordan.

Do we arm ourselves with the whole armor of God, as Ephesians 6 tells us before we go out to battle in the world? Salvation, righteousness, truth, peace, faith, Word of God are our armor against the temptations and evil that surround us.

Have we found our place of service unto the Lord? Will we help others find their place in which God has for them to serve? Are we willing to give up our rights, our will, to obey and follow God?

Moses did not take all of this lightly, did he? What were the requirements he laid out before these leaders?

• If you arm yourselves before the LORD for battle,
• if all of you will go armed over the Jordan before the LORD until He has driven His enemies out before Him,
• then when the land is subdued before the Lord, you may return and be free from your obligation to the LORD and to Israel.
• This land will your possession before the LORD.
• But if you fail to do this, you will be sinning against the LORD; and you may be sure that your sin will find you out.
• Build pens and cities, but do what you promised.

Do we stand up for God's Word and principles for us to live by, proclaiming abortion and homosexuality, fornication, adultery, drug abuse, and alcohol use as sinful. Do we show others the righteous way to live? Are we prayer warriors for our brothers and sisters and children? The devil is working hard to destroy their lives. Shouldn't we work hard to bring them to the light of Jesus? Stay in the fight, dear one. Press on. fight the good fight of faith. Victory is around the corner.

Stay with me, friends. We will find out how all of this turns out next post.
Are you are contemplating settling for second best or continuing to march for your Promised Land?
Keep in mind that nothing can stand against our God who is greater, stronger, mightier, higher than any other. If our God is for us, who can stop us? If He is with us, who can stand against us? (Chris Tomlin's song)

LET IT GO

Realize that my sins will find me out.

Bring my failures, sins, lack of faith before the throne of God. Confess and ask forgiveness, so they are under the blood of Jesus.

Ask for faith to carry on to accomplish His will.

Trust and obey, for there is no other way, to be happy in Jesus, than to trust and obey.

Pray and encourage others that are in a spiritual battle.

Don't settle for second best, but strive for God's perfect the best for our life, our Promised Land.

Give God the glory for the victories.

United, Yet Divided

O. T. #359  "United, Yet Divided"
Sept. 8, 2014
Numbers 32
Wherefore, said they, if we have found grace in thy sight, let this land be given unto thy servants for a possession, and bring us not over Jordan.  Numbers 32:5

LET IT GLOW

Has your family ever been divided on an issue? Ours has. I believed a course of action was wrong, not trusting in God, waiting on His timing and provision. Taking matters into their own hands. But I was out numbered and my conviction was overruled. They went ahead and did it anyway. It was not a happy process to endure. It definitely challenged my faith. Although we were divided on an issue, we were still united as a family, lovingly supportive of their decision. Looking back, maybe God used this method to provide what could not have otherwise have been. So far, all is well.
Two tribes of Israel wanted to go on their own, be divided from the rest of the nation by a river. Take a look into this matter.

Here they are, Israel is camped in the newly conquered land of Moab where the Midianites were defeated. It was a land for the cattle to graze. Look around and see. That's what the children of Gad and the children of Reuben did. (The half tribe of Manasseh would later join them.) It was so great, in fact, they wanted to stay there, settle down, settle in, make their homeland. (These tribes had herds of cattle.)
Actually, who would not want to cross over Jordan into the Promised Land? Do we? Are we willing to do whatever it takes for us to experience our Promised Land, what God wants to give us here and now? Will we live by faith or by sight? (Of course, heaven is our ultimate Promised Land.)

So their leaders approached Moses and Eleazar with a proposition:

• If we have found grace in thy sight, let this land be given unto thy servants for a possession, and bring us not over Jordan.
• These two tribes wanted to settle on the eastern side of the Jordan River (from the Dead Sea to the Sea of Galilee).
• As we have said, both of the tribes of Gad and Reuben wanted the ideal land for their herds. 
• Also, both tribes had suffered a decrease in population from the first to last census. Maybe they felt it was better for them to select their own land than to cast lots with the others.

Where is their faith? Are they only living by sight? To me, if your tribe is smaller in number, then it would be safer to be have the rest of the nation close by rather than be separated. However, they didn't think that way, apparently.
Do we seek God's grace in a matter so He allows us to partially obey Him? Sometimes going our own way is not the best way. God always knows what is best for us.


LET IT GROW

I wonder if the old lawgiver's thoughts went back to the tragedy when Israel rebelled  at Kadesh. (The people listened to the ten spies report on the giants in the land and refused to go conquer it.) Moses lived through the 38-40 years of the people, which were 20 years and older, dying off. What an experience in the wilderness.)

What was Moses' response to the request?

• Shall your countrymen go to war while you sit here?
• Why are you discouraging the Israelites from going over into the land the LORD has given them?
• Your father did the same thing at Kadesh Barnea, discouraging entrance into the land the LORD had given them. They aroused the LORD's anger.
• It resulted in them not following God wholeheartedly. (verse 11,NIV) Their doubt in God's ability to give them the land was considered evil.(verse 13)
• Not one of the men age 20 and up got to see the Promised Land,(much less enter it).
• Except for Caleb and Joshua who followed the LORD wholeheartedly, so these two would get to enter. (Moses got to see it earlier.) These three saw what a beautifully lush land that was waiting for them to come.
• Moses warned these two tribes that they were doing the same thing. If they turned away from following God, He would again leave all this people in the desert, and you will be the cause of their destruction.

I am going to stop there in the middle of the story. Find out what happened tomorrow.
Joshua and Caleb followed the Lord wholeheartedly; He said so. Their trust and complete faith was in what God said He would do-give them the Promised Land. (Numbers 14 and Joshua 14 give us more insight.)

 God warns us to wholeheartedly follow Him, as well as obey, love, seek, and believe Him wholeheartedly. Are we doing it with all of our heart?

Wholehearted means to be complete, full.
Wholehearted obedience is wholly obeying God with all of our heart, soul, mind, and strength. (Mark 12:30)

God is pleased when we wholeheartedly follow Him. The question is, "Are we?"


LET IT GO

Walk by faith, not by sight.

Wholeheartedly follow the Lord God.

Love God with all my heart, soul, and mind.

Love my neighbor as myself.

Completely follow His Word and Spirit.

Total Obedience

O. T. #358 "Total Obedience"
Sept. 5, 2014
Numbers 31-Part 2
Avenge the children of Israel of the Midianites: afterward shalt thou be gathered unto thy people.  Numbers 31:2

LET IT GLOW

God is not pleased with partial obedience, half-hearted obedience, nor disobedience. He wants complete, wholehearted, total obedience. It would be well with us if we were to remember this. Israel should have, also, but did not.

The 12,000 Israelites warred against the Midianites and won.
What was the result?

• They slew all the males, as the LORD commanded Moses.
• Five kings of Midian, mentioned in verse 8 were killed.
• Balaam was killed with the sword.
• The Israelites captured the Midianite women and children.
• They took all the Midianite herds, flocks, and goods as plunder.
• They burned the camps and towns where the Midianites had settled.
• Everything they captured was brought before Moses, Eleazar the priest, and the Israelite assembly by the Jordan.

Sounds like they had a great victory. That is, until you read verses 13-18.What may seem like a victory to one may not be complete obedience to the Lord.


LET IT GROW

Moses and Eleazar and all the leaders of the community met the army outside of camp. Moses was angry with the officers of the army which returned from the battle.

Why was he angry? They didn't kill all of the Midianites. Especially the women, since they were the ones who turned the Israeli men away from the LORD in Peor, into idolarty and immorality. Thus the LORD struck them with a plague. How quickly they forgot. (Numbers 25)

What specific instructions did Moses give the army?

• He told them to kill all the women who had slept with a man. This was so the same thing was not repeated and to prevent the fall of the men into sin.
• So Moses directed them to kill all the boys, also. This was because little boys grow up to avenge fathers' death and perpetuate the  Midian culture-which in itself was anti-God. (Guzik)
• They were allowed to save for themselves, as slaves, the virgin girls who had not slept with a man. These young girls would not be connected with immorality and idolatry.
• Anyone who had killed or touched anyone who was killed had to go through the cleansing ritual, purifying themselves, their clothing, and captives. In other words, purification of the soldiers was required. (verses 19-20)
• Eleazar reminded the soldiers that the gold, silver, bronze, iron, tin, lead, and anything else that cold withstand fire must be put through the fire, then it would be clean. It must be purified with water of cleansing.
• Anything not withstanding fire must be put through that water.

Some may question the harshness of all this and are bothered about it. god was protecting His children, a new nation and generation of believers.
Keep in mind:

These orders to burn and kill came from God. He is the righteous Judge of the earth. He was fully aware of all the circumstances and consequences involved at the time of the command. Israel was fighting for its very survival, and often that meant to kill or be killed. the moral habits of some of these desert people were almost unimaginable in their degeneration. (Falwell)


What happened to the confiscated wealth from this battle?

• The spoils was to be divided into two parts, with one part going to those who took part in the war and the other part to the rest of the congregation. God did not want looters and pirates.
• From the portion which the army received, they were to give a portion to the LORD.
• It all included over 800,000 animals, well over 1 million dollars in gold. (Falwell)

Did the Lord bless His children and at the same time eliminate the Midian enemies?
Not one Israeli soldier was missing or killed.(verse 49)
They were faithful to bring an offering as an atonement for their souls before the LORD. (verse 50)
David established this as a permanent rule of war, some four centuries later. (1 Sam. 30:24-25)

Do we allow worldly things such as secular music, songs, media, their ways, to be in the Lord's house of worship? There should be a separation of things used for the gospel and the Lord's honor. Are we watching out for those things which do not please the Lord?

LET IT GO

Totally obey what the Lord has said in His Word.

Be faithful in following His Spirit's leading.

Pay attention to the details.

Separate myself from the worldly ways and things which do not please the Lord, nor honor Him.

Pay Backs Are Tough

O. T. #357  "Pay Backs Are Tough"
Sept. 4, 2014
Numbers 31-Part 1
And the LORD said to Moses, "Take vengeance on the Midianites for the Israelites." So Moses said to the people,  "Arm some of your men to go to war against the Midianites and to carry out the LORD's vengeance on them."  Numbers 31:1-2 NIV

LET IT GLOW

There are some mean people who need to be paid back for the awfully mean things they have done and are doing to me. Someone needs to make them pay. Yet, I can't pay them back. God won't allow me to do it. I must wait on His revenging hand, timing, wisdom, and mercy. Justice will be had. May I add, God usually takes it further and far worse than I ever would have. Pay backs are tough. I am responsible to forgive them and  love them in spite of everything. A hard row to hoe.

We read here about the destruction of Midian. I found some background on this group of people.

The Midianites were descendants of Abraham through his wife Keturah (Gen. 25:2). Some forty years earlier, Moses (a descendant of Abraham through Sarah) had married a Midianite, Zipporah. but in the ensuing years, this tribe had degenerated until they were no different from a dozen other pagan desert people.  (Falwell)

The Midianites were nomadic people, at this time associated with the people of Moab. God commanded they be attacked in retribution for their seduction of Israel into sexual immorality and idolatry (Numbers 25:1-18). (Guzik)

The Midianites were a large confederation of tribes, associated with various smaller groups...They roamed through the arid lands of Sinai, the Negeb, and Transjordan. Here it is those Midianites associated with Moab that are picked out for vengeance. (Wenham)

In verse 2, the LORD told Moses to avenge, take vengeance, on the Midianites for Israel. Again, in verse 3, He instructs Israel to go against the Midianites and avenge the LORD of Midian, carry out the LORD's vengeance on them.

The King James Bible uses the word avenge, which means to punish, take vengeance; charge, deliver up, thrust, pay.
The New International Version of the Bible uses vengeance, which refers to vindication, retribution, punishment.

In Romans 12: 19, Paul says, Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath; for it is written, "Vengeance is Mine; I will repay," saith the Lord.

Paul is quoting Deuteronomy 32:35, To Me belongeth vengeance, and recompence; their foot shall slide in due time: for the day of their calamity is at hand, and the things that shall come upon them make haste.

In the Blackabys' Experiencing God Day By Day Devotional, they say:

One of the hardest areas in which to trust God is in the matter of justice. When we perceive an injustice, we want to see the guilty party punished. We want justice to prevail, especially if we are the victim. We become impatient if we are not avenged quickly. Yet God warns us that vengeance is not our prerogative. We are to desire justice, but we are not to seek vengeance (Micah 6:8). When someone offends us, our responsibility is to respond to the offense with forgiveness (Matt. 5:44). God takes the responsibility to see that justice is done. God loves people too much to allow sin to go unchecked. If we are impatient and seek revenge, we presume that we are wiser than God, and we reveal a blatant lack of trust that God will do the right thing. If we refuse to trust God's justice, we become enslaved to bitterness and anger. We must guard our hearts and trust God to exercise His judgment against those who oppose Him.

I could not have said it better. What more could I say about this subject?
The hard part is to forgive these people and love them in spite of it all. Ohhhh so hard.
Are you with me? Let's make the right choice-focus on Jesus instead of those people.


LET IT GROW

Now we know who Israel was sent to kill. Before the battle, God has the Israeli army comprised of 12,000 soldiers, a 1,000 of each tribe ready. Phinehas, the priest, was to lead the charge with the holy instruments and the trumpets to blow in his hand.

Liberty Bible Commentary tells us:
Priests were called the "anointed of the battle."
They gave the army three facts:

1. The Lord goes with you.
2. He will fight for you.
3. He will save you. Victory by Israel was dependent upon Israel's obedience to God.

Are you fighting a battle today, friend? Take to heart, God goes with you, for He never leaves us. He will fight for you, if you will let Him do the fighting. He will give you victory over this battle, so give Him the glory for doing it.

In Matthew 5:44, Jesus says: Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.

Easy words to type and read. Hard words to apply.
The words of an old hymn comes to my mind- Trusting Jesus that is all. Trusting Jesus whether great or small. Trusting Jesus, through it all. Trusting Jesus, that is all.


LET IT GO

Forgive those who hurt me, so bitterness does not grow in my heart.

Leave the vengeance to God.

Focus on my blessings and praise God for them.

Special Times

O. T. #355  "Special Times"
Sept. 2, 2014
Numbers 28-29
These things ye shall do unto the LORD in your set feasts, beside your vows, and your freewill offerings, for your burnt offerings, and for your meat offerings, and for your drink offerings, and for your peace offerings. Numbers 29:39

LET IT GLOW

We have special times in our family. The month of November has always been special to us. We had our first date in November, then got married the following year in the same month. Another year later our firstborn daughter came. Also, our daughter in law's birthday is in the same month. Not to mention my mother, sister in law, and nephew all have birthdays in November. Now you can see why it a significant month.
Of course, I could say the same thing about May. Our son, son in law, and grandson all have a birthday in May. Also, both of our children got married then.

Were there special times for Israel? Yes.

Instructions concerning regular celebrations in Israel's worship calendar had been given previously. Now, poised to enter the land, Moses gave an orderly reiteration and summary of the regular offerings for each time of celebration , adding some additional offerings.  (The MacArthur Bible Commentary)

Liberty Bible Commentary explains:
 In chapters 28 and 29, we see an amplification of Leviticus 23, but it is also unique in that it gives for each festival a specific date and definite quantity for each sacrifice on that date. Ezekiel 45-46 is the only other Old Testament list of specific amounts for special days and festivals.

Here are the offerings:

1. Daily Offerings-each day with 2 lambs. (verses 3-8)
2. Sabbath Offerings-each 7th day with 2 lambs. (verses 9-10)
3. New Moon Offerings-1st of each month with 2 young bullocks, 1 ram, 7 lambs, 1 kid of goats. (verses 11-15)
4. Passover-14th day of the 1st month (no animal sacrifice listed here). (verse 16)
5. Unleavened Bread-days 15-21st of first month with 2 young bullocks, 1 ram, 7 lambs, 1 goat. (verses17-25)
6. Feast of Weeks-(no date given); 2 young bullocks, 1 ram, 7 lambs, 1 kid of goats. (verses 26-31)
7. Feast of Trumpets-7th month on 1st day with same offerings as #6. (Nu. 29:1-6)
8. Day of Atonement-7th month on 10th day with same offerings as #6. (Nu.29:7-11)
9. Feast of Booths-7th month on 15-22nd days, with specific offerings on each day (Nu. 29:12-38)

The total number of animal sacrifices included: 105 lambs, 15 rams, 71 bulls, and 8 goats.

Does your family have special dates or days in which they celebrate?


LET IT GROW

As Christians, we worship on Sunday, the first day of the week like the believers in the book of Acts did. Also, we are told to remember Jesus' resurrection, so we celebrate Easter. Jesus is our sacrificial Lamb of God. We do not offer the animal sacrifices as the Jews did in the Old Testament sacrificial system. We are under grace, not the Levitical laws.
We have so much for which to thank the Lord!
God has an appointed time that He will send Jesus to get His children and we will all be caught up in the air with Him. What a day that will be! Our God is an awesome God!!! He reigns with wisdom, power, and love.


LET IT GO

Love God and surrender to Him.

Share the salvation story with others.

Thank the Lord Jesus for His grace and love.

Time to Go, Mo

O. T. #354  "Time to Go, Mo"
Sept. 1, 2014
Numbers 27
And the LORD said unto Moses, Get thee up into this mount Abarim, and see the land which I have given unto the children of Israel.  Numbers 27:12

LET IT GLOW

What a joyous day it will be when our church has its dedication service. It is coming soon. We have been at this same church 17 years, most of which we have struggled to accomplish God's purpose of building a new sanctuary. So far, it is debt free. Praise God! He did it! He has provided what we needed, the money, labor, materials, skills, leadership. The steeple was installed last week. Now it is a sanctuary and not just a metal building. It is coming soon. All we lack is the air and heating systems, ceiling tiles, concrete floor painted, restroom fixtures, stain-glass picture, and final painting of walls. Then it will be time to go-cross over our Jordan into the Promised Land. Get the trumpets ready.
I wonder if there was sadness at Moses leaving, as well as excitement of the new which lay before Israel.

We read in the first eleven verses about the detail of Zelophehad's five daughters get to inherit land that was due a son, which there was none. These were of the family of Manasseh, son of Joseph.

Liberty Bible Commentary says this about the situation:

The legal question described here vividly demonstrates God's impartiality and concern for womanhood. Unlike the pagan religions, which viewed females as mere slaves and sex objects, God looks upon both men and women as ...heirs together of the grace of life...(1 Peter 3:7). The legal problem was posed by five daughters of a man who had died in the wilderness without any sons. would these girls receive any land in Canaan? The answer from God was a resounding yes, resulting in a new law of inheritance whereby property could be transferred to daughters as well as sons.

Are we gracious women who show God's grace to others?

LET IT GROW

God took Moses, 120 years old by now, to Mt. Abarim, one of the peaks of Mount Nebo. It was located some 10-15 miles east of the northern end of the Dead Sea.
Why did Moses climb there?

1. It allowed Moses to view the Promised Land. (verse 12) Due to his rebellion of striking the rock for water and not speaking to it as God directed, Moses' punishment was not allowed to enter Palestine.
2. It was time for Moses to depart and name his successor. (verses 18-21)

With Moses gone, Israel was going to need a new shepherd to lead them and Joshua was God's chosen one.
No better choice could have been made. Joshua began his adult life as a military commander (Ex. 17:8-14) and would end up as the wisest of counselors (Joshua 23-24). (Falwell)

Before the congregation and priest Eleazar, Moses laid hands on Joshua and commissioned him to God's service. This eliminated any rumors about a power struggle between Moses and Joshua.

Details of Moses' death is recorded in Deuteronomy 34.
God gave Moses a life-fulfilling vision-he saw the land of Napthali, Ephraim and Manasseh, Judah, and even the Mediterranean Sea; the Jordan Valley and Jericho with palm trees. What a joy it must have been for Moses to look out over the dream of a lifetime.(Falwell)

Are there some promises which you are waiting on God to fulfill in your life? in your family's life?

It was 14 centuries later that Jesus saw Israel as sheep without a shepherd, in Matthew 9:36. He was the Great Promised Prophet (Deut. 18:15) with a similar heart concerning Israel.

LET IT GO

When God says it is time to go, go.

Hold onto His promises in the meantime.

Listen for the trumpet.

 

Roots can Produce Good or Bad Fruit

O. T. #353  "Roots can Produce Good or Bad Fruit"
August 29, 2014
Numbers 26
These are they that were numbered by Moses and Eleazar the priest, who numbered the children of Israel in the plains of Moab by Jordan near Jericho.  Numbers 26:63

LET IT GLOW

Sometimes our pecan tree has a lot of good pecan nuts to eat. Sometimes it has only an empty inner shell. My conclusion is that good and bad fruit can come from the same roots. So it is with families. Siblings can have the same parents, upbringing, even privileges, yet turn out to be so different. One child may spend their life serving the Lord while the other one does not. Such was the case of the Israeli family.

Here we have the second census being taken, under God's instructions. It took place after Eleazar made atonement and God stopped the plague killing Israel. The first census occurred over 38 years earlier (chapter 1). All the men age 20 and up, fit for military service were counted. The purpose of this census was for the division of the land which they were going to conquer. (Later, David's census was not under God's directions.) The exact location of each tribe was determined by lot (Josh.13-19).
What were the results of the census?

• The new generation was counted. There was a total loss of 1,820 adult males from the previous census. During the wandering years some 1,200,000 people died! (Falwell)
• Although the casting of lots determined the land each tribe possessed, consideration was given to the numerical size of each tribe.
• The decline of the tribe of Simeon was probably due to its participation in the sin of Baal of Peor (chapter 25).
• The Levites (priestly tribe) were counted separately. With a total of 23,000, there was an increase of over 1,000 from the last census.
• Singled out for special mention because of their part in the rebellion recorded in chapter 16 were Dathan and Abiram (tribe of Reuben). The led a revolt against Moses and Aaron with the earth swallowing them, Korah, and their family in their tent.(verse 9)
• The other children of Korah were spared judgment because they separated themselves from their father's house.
• Er and Onan were two sons of Judah who did not receive an inheritance in the land because of their great evil (Gen.38).
• Zelophehad had no sons, only five daughters, asked for an inheritance of their father. The previous laws only allowed the sons to inherit land, but God changed it (chapter 27). These daughters were of the families of Manasseh, son of Joseph. (Their father was not against the LORD with the company of Korah.) This resulted in a new law of inheritance of property for both daughters and sons. (MacArthur)

LET IT GROW

How was the Promised Land of Canaan, to be conquered, divided up later? The twelve tribes of Israel (Jacob) were promised by God to be a separate nation, having their own land.


Matthew Henry's Commentary on the Whole Bible gives more insight of this chapter as to how the families of the tribes were numbered:

• Dan had only one son, yet the most numerous of all, except for Judah. (verses 42-43)
• Zebulun was divided into 3 families;
• Divided into 4 families each were Ephraim, Issachar, Naphtali, and Reuben.
• Divided into 5 families apiece were Judah, Simeon, and Asher.
• Gad and Benjamin had 7 families apiece.
• Manassseh had 8 families.
• Benjamin brought 10 sons into Egypt, of whom 3 died childless or became extinct.
• The second census population of Israel was 1, 820 less than the first census, although 7 tribes increased in number.
• All the 3 tribes that were encamped under the standard of Judah, who was the ancestor of Christ, were increased, for his church shall be edified and multiplied.
• Manasseh had been the smallest of the tribes, but increased more than the others.
• None of the tribes decreased as much as Simeon, about a third.
• Perhaps it was due to the iniquity of Peor, where Zimri led in sin with the Midianite women.
• The other sons of Korah who did not rebel against Moses and Aaron later became singers in the house of the Lord, employed by David.
• The power of God can bring choice fruits even out of bitter root.

While some family members go the way of sin, live an unreputable life, bringing disgrace to the family, not all do the same. Some members of the same family can turn to serve the Lord and honor Him with their lives.

The tribe of Levi was God's tribe of priests. The were not given land, nor did they go to war.

God was preparing the Israelites to occupy the Promised Land. Even today, God protects His children, Israel from their enemies.

Are we teaching our family about the salvation and love of God? Will they stay close to Him in their lifetime? Our roots can produce fruit.


LET IT GO

Stay faithful to God.

Teach our family His Word and His faithfulness.

Bad Advice

O. T. #352  "Bad Advice"
August 28, 2014
Numbers 25
And he shall have it (covenant of peace), and his seed after him, even the covenant of an everlasting priesthood; because he was zealous for his God, and made an atonement for the children of Israel.  Numbers 25:13


LET IT GLOW

Phinehas was the son of Eleazar, who was serving as high priest at this time, and the grandson of Aaron, the first high priest.
God blessed Phinehas, according to verse 13: his descendants would have a covenant of lasting priesthood in Israel because he was zealous for the honor of his God and made atonement for the Israelites.

What an honor and reward for Phinehas to receive from God.
Are you praying for God to call your children and grandchildren into His ministry? I certainly am. What an honor it would be. I pray their faithfulness, worship, and service to God will continue throughout their lives. Also, my great-grandchildren.


LET IT GROW

Balaam gave some bad advice, as far as Israel was concerned. He was focused on the money he missed out on by blessing Israel and not cursing them. The bad advice meant the downfall and death of some of Israel. Greedy, wouldn't you say?

Do we give bad advice so we can profit? Do we have discernment so we do not take bad advice? Are we in God's Word so we know what pleases Him? Or are we focused on pleasing our flesh instead?

Want to know what led up to this?

• Balaam wanted the money and honor that Balak had promised him before he blessed Israel.
• So Balaam told Balak how to defeat Israel-involve them in pagan feasts and idol worship.
• The Israelite men became sexually immoral with the women of Moab, who invited them to the sacrifices to their gods.
• People ate and bowed down before these gods.
• Israel joined in the worship of Baal of Peor.
• The Lord's anger burned against them.
• Moses instructed Israel's judges to put to death those men who joined in worshiping Baal of Peor.
• An Israelite man had the gall to bring a Midianite woman right before Moses.
• This happened when Moses and the whole assembly were weeping at the Tent of Meeting (Tabernacle).
• Obviously, the reason for this weeping was a plague of God's judgment was upon Israel. (24,000 Israelites ended up dying.)

Worshipping a false god and idol was in violation of the first commandment, which God gave the Israelites.

What did Phineas do to receive such a reward from God?

• He saw what was happening.
• He left the assembly.
• He took a spear in his hand.
• He followed the Israelite (with the Moabitess) into his tent.
• He drove the spear through both the man, named Zimri, and woman, named Cozbi, who was a tribal chief of the Midianites' daughter.
• The plague against Israel stopped, but not before 24,000 died.
• After this, the LORD told Moses to treat the Midianites as enemies and kill them because they treated Israel as enemies when they deceived Israel in this matter.

Let me explain about the worship of Baal-peor.
Baal was a local heathen god worshiped at Peor. It was a god of the Moabite mountains. As the sun-god, Baal was worshiped because they believed he gave light and warmth, as well as destroyed the summer vegetation with the fierce heat. So the Moabites sacrificed to Baal in order to appease his anger in time of plague or other trouble. The victim of sacrifice was usually the first-born of the sacrifice and being burnt alive.
(Falwell resource was International Standard Bible Encyclopedia)

Talk about sick minded people. I am sure you will agree. Then it came to me-Americans are no better. We kill unborn babies with chemicals to burn them to death, while sacrificing them to our immoral pleasures. God forgive us! Will you join me in begging for forgiveness and mercy?
Let us stand up against abortion and proclaim the sins involved in it. Help us turn our youth to God.
Do we not deserve plagues that accompany such promiscuous living?
Will we promote abstinence?
Are we being the example of faithfulness to our spouse and God?


Now we see why Phinehas was rewarded by God. Not only Phinehas, but his descendants were honored by God with the high priesthood.

Because of Phinehas's zeal for God's holiness, the Lord made "a covenant of an everlasting priesthood" with him so that through his family line would come all future, legitimate high priests (Ps. 106:30-31). this promise will extend even into the millennial kingdom (Ezek. 40:46; 44:10,15; 48:11) This promise comprised the basis for the priestly covenant (Gen. 9:16).  (MacArthur)

A history lesson: Aaron had two sons, Eleazar and Ithamar. Phinehas was the son of Eleazar. For some unknown reason, the High Priesthood was switched from Eleazar to Eli (1 Sam. 1), a descendant of Ithamar. However, in the days of David it returned to the line promised here through Zado, a descendant of Eleazar (1 Kings 1). (Falwell)

Don't be vexed with the wiles of people, as verse 18 warns.
Christians need to be careful as individuals and churches to mingle with the heathen and other religions. Revelation 2:14 speaks of the doctrine of Balaam.

LET IT GO

Discern advice.

Seek the Lord's Word and will in matters.

Strive to live by God's ways.

Teach others the narrow way.

Stand against abortion and sinful lifestyles.

Pray, pray, pray.

What Will They Remember About You?

O. T. #351  "What Will They Remember About You?
August 27, 2014
Numbers 23-24, Part 2
And Balaam rose up, and went and returned to his place; and Balak also went his way.  Numbers 24:25

LET IT GLOW

What are you and I going to be remembered for having accomplished or done in our life?
I must say, up until this summer, my life has been pretty mundane.
Our Vacation Bible School theme this year was being detectives. The children were to be detectives, searching for evidences about Jesus. Well, my sister in law and I decided to liven up the place. We nightly dressed in various costumes-camouflage, chickens, hogs, tropical gals, as undercover agents looking for children who memorized the Bible verse. (Of course, we had to walk like chickens, snort like hogs. We all needed a good laugh so our mission was accomplished. Children did memorize the Word of God. I am still hearing about it. So at my funeral, after all those dignified pictures are shown, they will probably show pictures of my crazy side. Hey, laughter is good medicine.

Please excuse me for not posting yesterday. I was attending an "American Renewal" conference. Various political leaders and speakers challenged pastors to preach the Word of God, pray for our nation as morals decline, and hold up the standard of Christ. It was very encouraging. I want to encourage everyone to vote this November for issues and candidates which abide by the Word of God. The church sat silently allowing abortion and homosexuality has entered the public arena.

We left Balaam having a tour with Balak, king of Moab. The purpose of their meeting was so Balak could persuade Balaam to curse Israel. God instructed Balaam to only speak what He told him. Then Balaam tells of four visions, oracles, speeches about Israel:

1. Israel's calling was to be a special people, separate from the other nations. God had blessed Israel and Balaam could not curse them.
2. Israel was delivered from Egypt by the blood of the Lamb, though they sin. God accepted them.
3. Israel would occupy Canaan, enjoying the Promised Land. As a great lion captures and eats her prey, so Israel would be victorious because God was with them.
4. Israel's future glory would involve the coming kings of King David ruling the land, and then King Jesus ruling during the millennial kingdom.

God keeps His promises. He does not lie. We can make those statements, since we can read the rest of the story. Can we not take comfort in the same?

When God brings us out of our Egypt, He calls us to be a peculiar people; He blesses us; He gives us our Promised Land, providing what we need to serve Him; He reigns as King upon the throne of our heart.

What a description of God's blessings upon Israel:

• valleys spread out,
• gardens beside a river,
• aloes planted by the LORD,
• cedars beside the waters,
• buckets of water,
• seeds with abundant water,
• a king greater than Agag,
• an exalted kingdom,
• have the strength of an ox,
• devour hostile nations, breaking their bones, using piercing arrows, like a lion.

May those who bless Israel be blessed, and those who curse Israel be cursed.


LET IT GROW

In the last of chapter 25, Balaam tells to Balak the future of these nations:

• Amalek will come to ruin at last. (verse 20)
• The Kenites will be destroyed when Asshur captures them. (verse 22)
• Ships will come for the shores of Kittim, subduing Asshur and Eber, but they too will come to ruin. (verse 24)

Balak told Balaam that he would reward Balaam for cursing Israel, but since he blessed instead, there was no reward. Balak blamed the Lord for keeping Balaam from being rewarded. Oh, well. Balaam had told Balak that even if he gave him a palace filled with silver and gold, Balaam could not do anything of his own accord, good or bad, to go beyond the command of the LORD.

Sounds like an "I told you so" statement.

How does this meeting end? Balaam got up and returned home and Balak went his own way.

This perverted prophet now disappears from the pages of the Bible. He was killed (31:8) when Israel later invaded and defeated the Midianites.  In the New Testament, however, he is mentioned by nor less than three authors:

• Peter speaks of the way of Balaam (2 Peter 2:15)
• Jude mentions the error of Balaam (Jude 11)
• John refers to his doctrine which became a stumbling block to Israel.  (Falwell)

Really, I don't want people to remember me as being so stubborn that God used a talking donkey to bring me to my knees of surrender. Do you?
I don't want the errors of my ways remembered either. I desire a willing heart to accomplish God's will in my life.


LET IT GO

Surrender to God's will.

Obey God's directions and commands.

Trust His way is best.

Bless and Curse

O. T. #350 "Bless and Curse"
August 25, 2014
Numbers 23-Part 1
God is not a man, that he should life; neither the son of man, that he should repent: hath he said, and shall he don't dot it? or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good? 
 Numbers 23:19

LET IT GLOW


James asked, in 3:9-11,  With the same tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse men, who have been made in God's likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers, this should not be. Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring?

How often do I find myself doing the same thing? People can get on your last nerve, right? It can only take one thing to tick you off and here you go. Okay, they can get on my last nerve. They can tick me off. And I can spend a whole week talking about one incident. Making others miserable around me, avoid me because of it. Then I have wasted a whole week in that mood. Oh, then I turn around and praise God in song. Are you with me? God's grace does not blow me off the face of the earth, I deserve. Why can't I learn to pray for that person that ticks me off instead of reacting? Turn the other cheek, show love they need? Bless and curse with the same tongue.
God was not going to allow Balaam to curse Israel, though.

Here is the meeting which Balak, king of Moab, had long awaited. They got their bellies full at a a feast, then Balak showed his guest his land. They got down to business. Keep in mind, Balak expects Balaam to curse Israel so Moab and Midian are protected from any attacks. To Balak's surprise, every time Balaam opened up his mouth to speak, he blessed Israel instead.

In chapters 23 and 24, we read of the four visions of Israel which Balaam verbalizes. Let's look at the first two:

1. Israel's calling-Balaam could not curse Israel because God had blessed Israel.  That nation was a special people, called by God and separate from the other nations. The increase of Israel would be as the dust. Balaam desired to die as a righteous Jew, blessed and in favor with God. (verses 1-12)
2. Israel's acceptance-Balaam makes it clear that God speaks and keeps His Word.  Man is unreliable, but God is reliable. He does not change. His Word always comes to pass. God is not a man, that He should lie, nor a son of man, that He should change His mind. Does He speak and then not act? Does He promise and not fulfill? (Verse 19, NIV)

  What a comfort to know that God's Word is truth. What He says, He will do. What He promises, will be. Does our faith hold onto these truths? Do we need to practice more of these qualities, truthfulness and promise keeper? Do we bless others? Do we keep our word?


LET IT GROW

     Israel was accepted by God. They had been delivered from Egypt by the blood of the Lamb, and they were God's own purchased possession (Ex. 19:1-6). Humanly speaking, they were failures, but from the divine view-point, they were the people of God forever.  (Wiersbe)

God calls us to salvation in His Son, Jesus Christ. He wants a close relationship as a son or daughter with their father. He accepts us whenever our sins are covered with the blood of the Lamb.

Hey, did you see the word unicorn in verse 22. David Guzik says that it is mentioned nine times in the Old Testament. It may refer to a rhinoceros, a wild ox, or a strong goat.
God gives strength when it is needed. If we could just learn to turn to Him for it. A lesson for me to learn. This strength warrants them the capacity to do things their way. What about me?


LET IT GO

Don't be stubborn as donkey or head strong as an ox going my own way.

Trust God.

Bless the Lord Jesus.

Hold onto God's truths and promises. Share them with others.

Mercy, I Have Sinned!

O. T. #349  "Mercy, I Have Sinned!"
August 22, 2014
Numbers 22-Part 3
And Balaam said unto the angel of the LORD, I have sinned...   Numbers 22:34a

LET IT GLOW

We left a donkey with an open mouth and a man with open eyes. Balaam saw Jesus standing in the road with His sword drawn. Both fell down on the ground when they encountered the Holy One.

What did Jesus say to Balaam?

• He asked why Balaam had beaten his donkey three times. 
• Jesus came to oppose Balam because his path was a reckless one before Him. (NIV)
• KJV says, because thy way is perverse before Me. Perverse means to be rash, turn over, hurl (rush) headlong.
• The donkey saw Me and turned away from Me these three times.
• If she had not turned away, I certainly would have killed you by now, but I would have spared her.

How do we react when Jesus asks us what we have done? Are we humbled when we realize we have taken the wrong road on our Christian journey? It was not the one He wanted us to travel on. When Jesus reveals to us that the path we are on is a reckless one and our way is perverse before Him, how do we answer?
Are we so heard hearted that Jesus has to threaten us with death to get us on our knees of repentance?

Friends, I have been that rebellious. I took the wrong job, not taking the one Jesus wanted me to take. I stayed there four years, enjoying the money and prestige. Then encountered the demons of hell. I had to get out of there. I fell on my knees in repentance. God got me where He wanted me after I surrendered. I took the job I was supposed to take earlier. I encountered persecution there, but children in my classroom were saved that year. It was all worth the hardship I endured. Mercy, I have sinned! Thank you Lord for Your mercy and second chances!

I want to encourage you to not take the road of the world, but follow God's road on His journey for your life and avoid the heartaches.


LET IT GROW

How did Balaam react?

• He admitted that he had sinned. (verse 34)
• He said he did not realize Jesus was standing in the road to oppose him.
• If Jesus was displeased, Balaam would go back.

Jesus told Balaam to go with the men, but speak only what He told him. (verse 35)
So Balaam went with the princes of Balak.

Did you know there are at least 7 separate occasions in the Bible when an individual has been forced to say these three words: I HAVE SINNED?
Those men were:

1. Pharaoh (Ex. 9:27)
2. Achan (Joshua 7:20)
3. Saul (1 Samuel 26:21)
4. David (2 Sam. 12:13)
5. Job (Job 7:20)
6. Judas (Matt. 27:4)
7. the prodigal son (Luke 15:2)

Only three (David, Job, and the prodigal son) really meant it and experienced the forgiveness of God, it seems. (Falwell)

Balak seems to have rebuked Balaam for not immediately coming when he was summoned by Balak. Again, Balaam warns that he can only speak what God allowed him to say. (verse 38) Balak gave a great feast for Balaam and the princes (verse 40) and took him out to view Israel.

The main lesson here is to find the will of God and obey it, regardless of personal desires or subsequent circumstances.  (Wiersbe)

In the next two chapters, we will discuss the four visions God gave Balaam concerning Israel.


LET IT GO

Set aside my wants, desires, way of doing God's will and follow Him.

Repent whenever I have rebelled and gone my own way.

Admit I have sinned, seeking God's forgiveness.

Surrender to God's will.

Trust Him through the consequences.

Pray for others and encourage them when they go through the same thing.

Lovingly point them to Jesus.

A Talking Donkey

O. T. # 348  "A Talking Donkey"
August 21, 2014
Numbers 22-Part 2
And the LORD opened the mouth of the donkey, and she said unto Balaam, What have I done unto thee, that thou hast smitten me these three times?  Numbers 22:28

LET IT GLOW

Are you old enough to remember the talking horse, Mr. Ed? We have been watching some reruns of that show seen in my childhood. That horse could get his owner into some predicaments, yet they continue to carry on conversations.
Today's story continues with Balaam, who encounters his donkey talking to him with some good advice. It can be a funny story, yet sadly enough, we are like Balaam at times, rebellious.

Here we are, in the middle of a mess. We read about Balak, king of Moab, allied with the Midianites, desiring to annihilate the Israelites. Realizing that physical force would not defeat the Jews, he resorted to spiritual deception by trying to hire Balaam, a pagan prophet, to curse Israel. Twice Balak sent messengers to Balaam with a bribe for his purpose to be achieved.

Deep in his heart, Balaam wanted to go with the messengers because he was greedy of gain. This is "the way of Balaam" (2 Peter 2:15-16), using religion as a means of getting wealth. God permitted Balaam to go with the princes, but He did so only to test him (verses 20-22). (Wiersbe)

So that is where we pick up the story, God permits Balaam to meet with Balak, with the stipulation that Balaam only says what God wanted him to say.
Here comes the most unique method of God, an amazing and amusing story:

• Balaam got up in the morning, saddled his donkey and went with the princes of Moab. (verse 21) (Remember, he is on his way to meet with the king who wants Balaam to curse Israel.)
• God was very angry when he went, and the angel of the LORD stood in the road to oppose him. (verse 22)
• Balaam had his two servants with him. (verse 22)
• When the donkey saw the angel of the LORD (Jesus) standing in the road with a drawn sword in His hand, she turned off the road into a field. (verse 23)
• Balaam beat the donkey to get her back on the road. (verse 23)

Why didn't Balaam stop to consider what was happening? He didn't see the angel of the LORD with a sword standing in the road. Stick with me in the detail, friends. The story gets more interesting. It's too good to skim over with a summary.

• Then the angel of the LORD stood in a narrow path between two vineyards, with walls on both sides. (verse 25)
• When the donkey saw Him, she pressed close to the wall, crushing Balaam's foot against it.
• Balaam beat the donkey a second time. (verse 25)
• Then the angel of the LORD moved on ahead and stood in a narrow place where there was no room to turn, neither to the right nor to the left. (verse 26)
• When the donkey saw the angel of the LORD (Jesus), she lay down under Balaam.
• Balaam beat the donkey a third time with his stick. (verse 27)
• The LORD opened the donkey's mouth and asked Balaam, "What have I done to you to make you beat me these three times?" (verse 28)
• Furious Balaam talked to his frightened animal saying, "You have mocked me (made a fool of me). If I had a sword, I'd kill you right now." (verse 29)
• Again this terrified donkey spoke to his master, "Am I not your donkey, which you have always ridden, to this day? Have I been in the habit of doing this to you?" (verse 30)
• "No. " Balaam answered, still carrying on a conversation with his donkey. (verse 30)
• Then the LORD opened Balaam's eyes, and he saw the angel of the LORD (Jesus) standing in the road with His sword drawn.
• So Balaam bowed low and fell facedown. (verse 31)

We are going to stop there, concluding next time. What lessons we have to learn from this unusual story recorded for us in God's Word. I believe it actually happened as it says.

LET IT GROW

Can we learn from others' mistakes, even their sinful ways? How can we apply this to our life?
Here is what I concluded:

• The Angel of the Lord was a manifestation of the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ Himself. He was equated with deity (Gen. 16:7, 18:1-2; Ex. 3:1-6). (MacArthur)
• The angel of the LORD is, in fact, a preincarnate appearance of Christ, the Second Person of the Trinity. The New Testament indicates that no man has ever seen God the Father (1 Timothy 6:16). (Falwell)
• If we know God's will for our life, we should follow it and do God's will His way, not our way.
• God knew Balaam's motive was not right; he was not yet submissive to what God required. (MacArthur)
• God permits us to go our own way in order to learn a lesson that we won't forget.
• God sees us when we are on the wrong road, on the wrong path, and in a narrow place by our own choosing.
• Sometimes God has to pen us in, get us between a rock and a hard spot, crush our strong will, break our heart, before we fall down before God and repent of our sins.
• What does it take for God's rebellious child to turn to God in repentance? Does a donkey have to speak to us, to get us to listen to God, to get our attention?
• The Lord allowed Balaam to see things as they really are. Not all things are as they appear. Do our spiritual eyes need to be opened in order to see the obvious will of God for us? Especially when we are on the wrong road, path, way?

LET IT GO

Stop going my own way and get on the King's road for my life.

Obey His will and directions. When God says no, accept it.

Repent of my sins before I get between that rock and hard spot.

Pray for Christians out of God's will.

Ask for God's mercy.

Remember, nothing is beyond God's capabilities. After all, He can make a donkey talk.

Keep the faith.

Don't go the way of Balaam.

A Second Time

O. T. #347  "A Second Time"
August 20, 2014
Numbers 22-Part 1
If the men come to call thee, rise up, and go with them: but yet the word which I shall say unto thee, that shalt thou do. Numbers 22:20b

LET IT GLOW

When we don't get the answer we desire from God, what do we do? Do we continue to ask Him for it? Do we want that permissible answer? Even if the thing is not in our best interest? We are not along. One of our main characters in today's story did the same, and he was a pagan prophet. Read on.

Our focus is turned from Israel's conquering the land to two main characters, a pagan prophet called Balaam and king of Moab, Balak.

His oracles reassert the faithfulness of the Lord to the Abrahamic covenant and His purpose to bless Israel. In verses 2-40, the events leading to Balaam's words are recorded. This is followed in 22:41-24:24 with the words of his prophecies and the conclusion in 24:25. (MacArthur)

You will recall that the Moabites were descendants of Lot (Gen.19:36-37). This king had seen how Israel destroyed the Amorites. He didn't know that God forbid Israel from attacking Moab, so he was terrified that the same could happen to him and his people (Deut. 2:9).
Because of this fear toward Israel, Balak contacted the Midianites to join them in an alliance to defeat Israel. The Midianites were descendants of Abraham through his wife Keturah (Gen. 19:36-37).

Sounds like Balak was afraid his country would be the next victim of Israel's string of victories. He was smart enough to figure out that Israel could not be stopped by military force, so he tried satanic witchcraft of a sort.

Getting back to Balaam, he practiced magic and divination (24:1). He is identified as a false prophet later in Scriptures (Deut. 23:3-6) King Balak knew that Israel was too strong militarily to defeat, so he used a different tactic. Balak called for Balaam to come and curse Israel.

In Hebrew, our word  for curse has two words. Appearing in verses 6 and 12, the Hebrew word arar (aw-rar') means to execrate; bitterly curse. Appearing in verses 11 and 17, the Hebrew word qabab (kaw-bab') means to scoop; malign; stab with words; to execrate; curse. (Strong's Concordance)

What happened?

• Balak sent messengers to Balaam, saying that Israel had too many people and settled next to him.
• Israel was too powerful for him.
• He asked Balaam to come and put a curse on Israel.
• Perhaps then Balak could defeat Israel and drive them out of the country.
• Balak believed those who Balaam blessed would be blessed and those he cursed were cursed.
• The elders of Moab and Midian went to Balaam with a bribe, a fee for the divination.
• Balaam told the bribers to stay the night and he would bring back the answer that the LORD gave him.
• God came to Balaam and asked him who those men were. (As if God needed to be informed.)
• Balaam told God who they were.

What instructions did God give to Balaam in verse 12? Do not go with them. You must not put a curse on those people, because they are blessed.

What happened next?

• Balaam told Balak's princes to return to their own country, for the LORD had refused to let Balaam to with them. And they did just that.
• Balak sent more numerous and distinguished princes to Balaam with another message.
• The message included: Don't let anything keep you from coming to me, because I will reward you handsomely and do whatever you say. Come and put a curse on these people for me.

What God says goes. He expects us to obey His commands. Some people do not desire to please God but themselves. Did you notice that the evil one was persistent?

Why are we not that persistent to do good, Kingdom work and seeking the Lord?


LET IT GROW

What was Balaam's response?

• Even if Balak gave Balaam his palace filled with silver and gold, he could not do anything great or small to go beyond the command of the LORD his God.
• Balaam told the messengers to spend the night and he would find out what else the LORD would tell him.
• With a second request and a second prayer, God answered Balaam a second time: Go with them, but do only what I tell you.

As a pagan prophet, Balaam would anticipate making contact with the gods of any people. He did not have a saving relationship with Israel's God. (MacArthur)


I am going to stop right there. Are we as persistent as Balak was? Even when we are sent on a mission by God, do we seek help in achieving His purpose? Do we pray about it like Balaam did?
Are we obedient when God tells us not to go or not to do something? Or, are we obedient when He does tell us to do such and such? Do we speak only what God tells us to speak?

Things to ponder. We will continue this event tomorrow. Be sure to join us.

LET IT GO

Study God's Word so I know what He says to me about specific situations.

If an answer to pray is NO, then accept it.

Go and do what God tells me to do.