Deuteronomy 34: Moses' Funeral: Officiated by God

Moses wrote another poem (Psalm 90) in which he contrasted the everlasting nature of God with the temporary nature of human life on earth (70 or 80 years). Moses lived far beyond that average—an additional 40 years. And how well he used them in faithful service. Physically, he did not have to die in Deuteronomy 34—he wasn’t weak or sick—it was just time, according to God. And God conducted the funeral. What more can be said?

Deuteronomy 33: "To the Tribes" - Last Words of Moses

Every verse of this chapter (except verse 1) is poetry. This poem is Moses’ address to various tribes, describing their character, function, and future. All of the tribes are mentioned except Simeon (see 27:12). No reason is given. But what is said about the others can give us a lot of reasons to meditate on how we can and should serve God today as His family (Ephesians 3:14-21).

Deuteronomy 32: Let's Sing

The first 43 verses of this chapter are poetry. It could easily be a song. In fact, it is often called, “The Song of Moses.” When the song leader announces his number and waits for us to find it, he often says, “Let’s sing.” And then we sing. If Israel had sung this song with the right attitude through the centuries, who can say how many of the bad things in their history could have been avoided? Let’s remember that every time our leader says, “Let’s sing.”

Deuteronomy 31: Time Is Filled with Swift Transition

One short meditation cannot do anything but begin to encourage us to learn about the changes that come about in all lives. Sometimes these changes are very big. Joshua is taking over for Moses. How big was that? Moses’ dream will not be fulfilled due to sin. But God gave him something better. Joshua takes the dream and fulfills it—he leads Israel into rest (Hebrews 4:1-13). Maybe we will be able to handle our big transitions better by working harder on the small ones.

Deuteronomy 30: When You Come to Your Senses

After predicting that they would indeed offend God, Moses moves on to announce what God would do for them when they came to their senses (“call them to mind,” KJV). Let us keep in mind that God is predicting their future here. The apostasy of chapter 29 would occur (see 2 Kings and 2 Chronicles), and some of them would come to their senses—in captivity (see Daniel and Ezekiel). But none of this had to happen! What about me—how much of what has happened to me could have been avoided if I had just been obedient?

Deuteronomy 29: Covenant: God Did All of This for You

The word “covenant” in this chapter refers to a treaty or agreement He had made with Israel. God’s claim was that He had done this, and that, and the other—all for Israel. He was making an amazing offer to the stiffnecked (stubborn) nation for their own good and for the furtherance of His commitment to offer redemption to the entire human race. On the other side of this covenant, God reminded them of the terrible consequences they would suffer if they aroused His fierce anger by continuing in their stubbornness.

Deuteronomy 28: Blessings

The word used here has to do with giving good things to the people. In this case, it was the good that God promised Israel as a result of their obedience. However, we need to remember that being blessed by God is not always a sign that He is pleased with us (Matthew 5:45). The only way we can know that our blessings are a sign of His good pleasure is if we have obeyed—and that is easy to determine. Just keep His commandments!

Deuteronomy 27: Curses

The word used here is used to describe punishment that will surely come for disobedience. It is also meant to be a means of keeping the people from disobedience (deterrence). Think carefully about each one and then look in your concordance for other places where it is used (including the next chapter).

Deuteronomy 26: Let's Sum It Up

This is the end of Moses’ second speech in Deuteronomy (beginning in 4:44). In the last four verses (16-19), he reviewed the whole thing in very basic terms:

¨ God told you what to do.

¨ You knew it.

¨ You have said you will do it.

¨ He has made it clear how special you are.

¨ He has said He will make you His Own.

Why wouldn’t anyone honor such a God? See Acts 10:44-45.

Deuteronomy 25: Amalek

As the journey to Canaan began, the Israelites met with and fought against Amalek (Exodus 17). Amalek was to pay a high price for this—as far as God was concerned. In today’s meditation, He tells them to blot the memory of Amalek out from under heaven. When the time came to inherit the land, Israel did not blot Amalek out. Hundreds of years later, Saul was told to do it—and he chose not to. It was a great tragedy (1 Samuel 15) and led to Saul’s ruin and death for him and others, including his own sons (1 Samuel 31). When God gives us a distasteful job to do, it is best that we do it.

Deuteronomy 24: What if...?

Even though God’s plan for marriage is “one man and one woman for life,” He knew that all kinds of situations could (and would) arise in life. His wisdom made provisions for those situations. That’s how the chapter begins. Jesus referred to this provision as having been given due to the hardness of their hearts (Matthew 19:1-12). But even with this—God requires us—men and women—to treat our mates correctly. This will prevent the “what if…” from ever coming up.

Deuteronomy 23: Oh, Those Consequences!

Many times in every person’s life there are consequences that are not a result of the person’s sin or wrong-doing. But they are consequences anyway, and they need to be dealt with honorably. Some of those situations—extreme ones, I might say—are given in this chapter. God pronounced the consequences (without necessarily implying any guilt). One valuable element of these situations is the lesson of humble dependence on God that can be learned.

Deuteronomy 22: Because I Said So

There are many commands in the Bible that do not have an explanation from God. He simply says to “do” or not to “do” a certain thing. This reading has a number of them. It seems to me that something to learn from this (beyond obeying!) is that those who are in positions of authority have the right to tell us what to “do” or not “do” simply “because I said so.” Let us learn to honor the authority that others have over us by doing what we are supposed to—even when we do not have an explanation.

Deuteronomy 21: What if my Child Is...

The principle of honoring and obeying parents is so important to God that He not only has made the Bible a manual for the home, He has also given a number of statements showing what He thinks of disobedient children (Romans 1:30; Hebrews 12:5-12; and the whole book of Proverbs). This chapter has one of those references. When you come to it, read it with a desire to understand why this is so important to God. Then decide to be a part of the solution by encouraging people to learn these principles.

Deuteronomy 20: Rules of War

The Israelites were an earthly nation with an earthly homeland. This land was possessed by nations who had become idolaters and no longer deserved to live there. To eliminate them, God chose to send His people out to war. So He gave them rules of war. That is all simple enough—so let us now compare it to the spiritual Israel of the New Testament (the church—Galatians 1:2; 6:16). We are also an army, we have “enemies,” and we have rules of war (Ephesians 6; 2 Timothy 2). Our objective is different, for our mission is to make friends out of our enemies with the sword of the Spirit (Matthew 5:9,43-48).

Deuteronomy 19: Part of the Pattern

How do we learn whether or not a person is guilty of a charge? Some people think that if they have two or more “reliable witnesses,” they need to do no more. They use such “proof texts” as verse 15 of this chapter. However, Moses does not say that the witnesses must be “reliable,” but that their testimony must “establish a fact.” And in no way are we to stop with this one text as the entire pattern anyway. At Jesus’ trial even He was given the option of testifying. The goal is to be fair and come to the correct conclusion, isn’t it?

Deuteronomy 18: Like unto Me: That Prophet

The spiritual growth of Moses from Exodus 3 is one of the great stories of the Bible, and the fact that he was 80 at the beginning is truly thought-provoking. In this chapter, he makes one of the more remarkable prophecies of the Old Testament regarding the prophet Who would be like Moses. Among the references to this prophecy in the New Testament is Acts 3:23-26. Compare it with verses 15-19 in today’s reading and meditate on the many similarities between these two men.

Deuteronomy 17: The King Is Coming - But Should He Be?

It was not God’s plan for Israel to have an earthly king. This chapter is the one where Moses predicts that they would someday desire  a king (for all the wrong reasons). God was going to permit it, but He still expected them to honor Him. The fulfillment of this sad prediction began in 1 Samuel 8. There is another King coming, someday. He will come to judge us according to our works (Matthew 25:31-46). Let us honor Him now so we can be welcomed into the everlasting kingdom (2 Peter 1:10-11).

Deuteronomy 16: Make Sure They Are Fair

One of the things Israel would have to do in the land of Canaan was to have officials in all the tribes and towns to deal with everyday issues. The fundamental characteristic of these officials was to be that they were to be fair! Read verses 18-20 carefully and note that all of the things Moses said led to this point. We need fair-minded people in leadership positions of all kinds. Character counts!

Deuteronomy 15: You Need to Remember This

The word “remember” always includes the idea of looking back. But the reason for looking back is also important. In verse 15, Moses tells them to remember (that is, “do not forget”) that they had been slaves in Egypt and that God redeemed them (delivered; 7:8). One of the most powerful motivations to right living is to use the “rememberer” correctly—as, for example, when Christians observe the Lord’s Supper every Sunday (1 Corinthians 11:23-29).

Deuteronomy 14: You Are Chosen - Do Not Compromise Your Holiness

One of the parallels between the Israel of the Old Testament and the Israel of God today—the church of Christ (Galatians 6:16) is found in the wording of verse 2 (see 1 Peter 2:5-9):

¨ You are holy people of the Lord

¨ He has chosen you—specially

¨ Chosen out of all of the people of the earth

Let us also learn—from the failure of that Israel—to be sure that we do not compromise our holiness (our “chosen-ness”) by doing that which is unclean.

Deuteronomy 13: Can You Pass This Test? Yes!

False religion is wrong. One of the main things that makes it wrong is the claims made by the leaders regarding the source of their instructions. God allows people to make choirs, even wrong ones. By giving us the right to choose, we automatically are placed in the situation of being tested by religious error (v. 3). Passing the test (by searching the Scriptures) leads to a life of loving God with all of the heart and soul (v. 3). Since the “dreamers of dreams” are all around us still, let us not fail the test by following their errors and arousing the wrath of God.

Deuteronomy 12: Don't Do This to Jehovah

Moses continues his lesson by speaking of the details of pagan worship, the need to destroy all of the things that were a part of it, and the moving plea that I have paraphrased as—                                       

“Don’t do this to Jehovah”

He then tells them what they should do to God—bring Him what He said He wanted and offer it as He said He wanted it offered. The reading ends with another clear reminder about how to treat the commandments of God.

Deuteronomy 11: But Your Eyes Have Seen

In this reading, we are reminded that the children in the audience were not witnesses to the mighty acts of God that are described in Exodus through Numbers (v. 2). But the adults were: “Your eyes have seen” (v. 7). They were responsible for telling their children about these things so that they could believe in God and follow Him faithfully. Today, by using the Bible correctly, we can develop great faith that leads to holy living.

Deuteronomy 10: "...For Your Own Good..."

As we learn more about God in our reading of the Bible, we come to understand that He never gives a commandment unless it is “for your own good.” This is the point of verses 12 and 13 which are followed by Moses’ claims that God loved their fathers—even delighted in them. He was devoted to their welfare as He is to ours. Think of your devotion to and delight in Jehovah as you read this remarkable chapter.

Deuteronomy 9: I Got up with a Stiff Neck

Physically, a stiff neck is a real pain in the neck. Spiritually, it is a death sentence (v. 13; see Exodus 32:9; 33:3; 34:9). It is a sign of pride, stubbornness, rebellion, and spiritual deafness. Until it is softened by the exercise of humility, there is no hope (Zechariah 7:11-12). If our fathers were stiff-necked, it is even harder for us to be humble because we have to see them as they are and choose to be different if we are going to be acceptable to God. This is one of the messages of Deuteronomy 9.

Deuteronomy 8: No Swollen Feet

The details of the Bible can make us stop dead in our tracks sometimes (if we are being good readers!). I do not know all of the things that can cause our feet to swell, but walking for forty years in a wilderness is surely one of them. God was so good to this nation that He did not let their clothes wear out (v. 4; 29:5), their shoes did not get old (29:5), and their feet did not even swell up (v. 4). They could not look anywhere without seeing proof of God’s providing care—from His voice on the holy mount to their own healthy feet.

Deuteronomy 7: The "ites" Have It - or Do They?

There were seven “ites” already living in the land that God was giving to the Israelites. They were bigger and stronger than Israel. They had been there a long time (back to Genesis 10). But what chance did they have against God? Could they outnumber Him? Outfight Him? Outtalk Him? Outspend Him? Outflank Him? Outthink Him? So the “ites” do not have it! OUT with them! God was giving this land of milk and honey to the seed of Abraham through Isaac and Jacob. And He is giving another inheritance to us—if we become and remain the spiritual seed of Abraham (Galatians 3:26-29).

Deuteronomy 6: Hear, Hear

This is the first word of verses 3 and 4. It is followed by things that God wanted them to know, believe, and do. The command to hear is the first commandment to obey if we are to learn the commandment that is first in importance—then (v. 4-5) and now:
                                  Matthew 22:34-40
                                  Mark 12:28-34
                                  Luke 10:25-37
Please, please, learn to listen—for faith comes by hearing. Only by hearing the right things can we ever believe the right things—and only by believing the right things can we ever do the right things (Romans 10:8-21).

 

Deuteronomy 5: Who Said That?

The ten commandments are repeated here (originally given in Exodus 20). Moses clearly says that they were for Israel—not for their fathers or other nations. We are not under this law either, for it was nailed to the cross (Ephesians 2; Colossians 2). Nine of them are part of the law of Christ, however; all except the Sabbath (law). But the point I want to emphasize is that these laws were spoken by God (verse 22) and they knew it! Many of the people who heard Deuteronomy 5 also heard Exodus 20. Likewise, the New Testament is also the word of God, given by His Son—The One Whom we are to hear (Matthew 17:5). The standards of Christ are the standards of God—still.

Deuteronomy 4: Let's Get This Now - Verse 2

Verse 2 is one of the places in the Bible where God expressly forbids people to alter His will by adding to it or taking away from it. The generation that was about to conquer Canaan needed to get this in their hearts before they did anything else. God’s revealed covenant was perfect for what He had in mind for them. Changing it would keep His will from occurring. This principle applies today, too. The whole human race needs the whole word of God, which is the Bible (Revelation 22:18-19). Please decide to follow the whole Bible—and nothing else. By doing this, you will have a happy judgment day (John 12:48-50).

Deuteronomy 3: A King-sized Bed

I do not know how big Og the king was, but his bed was 13 1/2 feet long and 6 feet wide. Kings seem to overdo almost everything. He was a big man (v. 11), but He was no match for the Lord of hosts. In Numbers 21—only a few months before Deuteronomy 3, he met up with the King of Heaven and Earth. Stories of earth’s kings are overflowing with information about their vanity, corruption, and idolatry. Not one of them has ever inflicted a wound on the King of Kings—except when He voluntarily became the Lamb of God to take away our sins. This is just one lesson about how big God is in Deuteronomy 3.

Deuteronomy 2: The Men of War Were Wasted

The men of war were the 603,550 who were doomed to die in the wilderness for their lack of faith. Verse 14 says that they were “wasted” (KJV). Other versions use terms such as “consumed,” “perished,” “died off.” Wasted...what a horrible thing to have to say about one life, much less 603,550 lives! And their choice to waste their opportunities, challenges, and lives affected everyone around them. Even the two survivors, Joshua and Caleb, were forever affected by these wasters. God had made them into His army, His people, His beloved—and they wasted—wasted away at the very edge of victory. Read it and learn.

Deuteronomy 1: The Lord Hated Us

Deuteronomy is a series of speeches by Moses in the last two months of the forty year trip from Egypt to Canaan. The audience is the second generation of Israelites. In this first speech, Moses is reviewing the journey. In verse 27, he quotes the parents of his audience as saying, “The Lord hated us.” He immediately begins his review of “God in the wilderness.” The speech continues until the end of chapter 4. In 4:37, Moses contradicts the claim of their parents by saying that God did these things because He loved their fathers. As you read these chapters, honestly think about God: did He hate them, or did He love them? 

Numbers 36: ...in the Plains of Moab

The major portion of their journey was due to the unbelief of the generation that was freed from Egypt by Jehovah of Hosts (Numbers 13-14). Now, the second generation has arrived at the very edge of the goal—the promised land. Laws, statutes, commandments, and the judgments of the Lord have been given to cover all sorts of situations. He has not forgotten anything or failed anyone. They should be ready to take the land and possess it in faithfulness. This last chapter is a protection designed to keep each tribe’s inheritance from being transferred to another tribe. This plan shows the wisdom and fairness of God. We should not be surprised to learn again that He Who is God is also wise and fair.

Numbers 35: Six Special Cities

The Levites were not going to get an inheritance of land. They were going to be scattered all through the land in forty-eight cities (v. 7). Their mission was to provide holy leadership for the other twelve tribes. Among their cities, six special ones were to be known as cities of refuge (three on each side of the Jordan). As you read, notice why this arrangement was made. Also, think about the fact that we are called to flee to Christ for our refuge (Hebrews 6:18-20).

Numbers 34: How Would You Divide an Inheritance?

Forty years—a period that God chose to name “The Provocation” (Psalm 95:7-11; Hebrews 3:7-11)—and now it was nearly time for the twelve tribes to divide their inheritance. For His Own reasons, God decided to be the One Who would explain how the land inheritance would be divided. Inheritance dividing has been the source of great heartache and sin all through time. Leaving it up to God—and His principles—clearly works. The proof is in Joshua 13-24, seven years after Numbers 34.

Numbers 33: 1-2-3: "And Moses Wrote"

He wrote about the stops the Israelites made from the beginning of their journey after the first Passover until their arrival at the other side of the Jordan. After thirty-nine years and four months, they came to Mount Hor. Only eight more months, and they would be home—for the first time. The events are in Numbers 20—the person was Aaron—and now we are reminded that at the age of 123, he died on Mount Hor. Chapters 22-33 cover part of the eight months that remained. Meditate on verses 50-56 in light of the events of chapters 22-33.

Numbers 32: This Is the Phrase

I know that several meditations could be written based on this reading, but the one that is the best known and easiest to remember is 32:23:
                                               “Be sure your sin will find you out”
What better time in history could be found to teach this lesson than the forty years that began in in Exodus 3? Moses uses that era to make this point about the universal law of sowing and reaping to those who had seen most or all of it. I need to study that era in order to learn the same lesson: 32:23 (Hebrews 3:7-19).

Numbers 13: War...Memorial

Memorials are things that are made, given, offered after a war is over. A war was fought in this chapter, during the fortieth year of the journey to Canaan. The wicked prophet Balaam stirred people against Israel. He lost his life—and the war. The things (spoils) of the war were taken to the tabernacle as a memorial. What wars am I fighting now? Are they worthy of my time and energy? What will be the spoils? And what memorial will I give to Jehovah when the worthy wars are won?

Numbers 30: When a Vow Is a Vow

According to this reading, a vow is a vow that must be honored when it is made to the Lord. When a vow is not a vow that should be kept is when it is made to a false god or when it is not according to the will of Jehovah. Many vows are optional—we can choose to make them (such as the vows we make when we exercise the option to get married) —but when a vow is made, we have put ourselves under an obligation in the presence of God. We need to keep such vows.

Numbers 29: That Smells Good...

Obeying God is a sweet savour (KJV), a pleasant aroma, a pleasant fragrance to Him. Doing our own will, or someone else’s will, can never be the same as doing what He said He wants. It was so in the Old Testament, and it is so in the New Testament (Ephesians 5:1-2; 2 Corinthians 2:14-15; Philippians 4:18). As you read this chapter and learn what it meant to offer a sweet savour to Him then, resolve to read the New Testament and choose to be a sweet savour through Jesus Christ now.

Numbers 28: I'm Telling You to Do This

God commanded the Israelites to sacrifice daily (vv. 3-8), weekly (vv. 9-10), monthly (vv.11-15), and yearly (vv. 16-31). One of these was the yearly Passover. Over 700 years later, the book of the law (including Numbers) was found in the temple, and the Passover was kept as it had not been kept since the days of the Judges! How does such a book get misplaced—in the temple? The words of Jehovah in Numbers 28 were designed to give them enough to do so that this would never happen. By the way, do you know where your Bible is? Do you know what is in it? Is there anything you haven’t been doing correctly for the past 700 years?

Numbers 27: Daughters Are People, Too!

Not long after this event, Moses would teach the new generation that God is not a respecter of persons (Deuteronomy 10:17). This chapter is an illustration of it. The daughters of Zelophehad had a problem. These five girls had no brothers, so there was a question about how they would get an inheritance in the land. The answer they received is proof that God does not value one person above another: Daughters are people, too! This is another lesson that is needed all over the world today.

Numbers 26: Not a Man Left of Them

Since Numbers 20, we have been in the last of the forty years in the wilderness. At this time, another count is taken of the men who are 20 or older and able to go to war. The previous number was 603,550 (Numbers 2:32). This time, it was 601,730. The difference is not 1820, however. Verse 64 says that not one of the first group was left. Verse 65 says why: God said, “They shall surely die in the wilderness.” So they died. And then Moses reminds us that the two survivors were Caleb and Joshua. The difference? Read Hebrews 3:19.

Numbers 25: Not Again!

Adultery and fornication are at the root of another heart-wrenching chapter. The Israelites, immediately after several prophecies from Balaam assuring that Moab would not prevail against them, choose to act as offensively as possible toward God: immorality and idolatry. God demands the death penalty, so 24,000 are killed. In 1 Corinthians 10, Paul says that 23,000 of those deaths were in one day. And in Numbers 31:16, Moses adds the note that the whole thing was instigated by Balaam! These cross references make the story even more heart-wrenching.

Numbers 24: Let's Look Ahead, Since...

Since the “good ground hearing” button is never pressed by Balaam or Balak, God uses them to make a prophecy about the future—the time when the Most High Almighty God would send a Star, a Sceptre, a Smiter out of Jacob to do His final will. This Person is Jesus Christ. About fourteen hundred years passed, and this prophecy was fulfilled, too. When you finish this reading, look at the last verse and think about how it relates to the art of being a good ground hearer.

Numbers 23: Let's Not Listen

Now that the donkey is out of the picture, we are left with Balaam and Balak (a prophet and a king)—and Jehovah. Neither of the two men has any real interest in God’s will (do not forget that the New Testament confirms this in 2 Peter, Jude, and Revelation). And do not forget that God used both of them to announce His will, protect His people, and magnify His name! God will be glorified! It will be to our benefit to cooperate with Him in this—such is the lesson from the mouth of Balaam’s donkey.

Numbers 22: Let's Talk

If you think that Numbers has had some strange events in it—hold on—the next three chapters are “incredible, but true.” We are about to meditate on Balaam, the prophet “who loved the wages of unrighteousness” (2 Peter 2:15). As you read, pay attention to those who speak in this chapter, and pay attention to how well their words are heard. The one who comes out with the highest grades is Balaam’s donkey.

Numbers 21: And as Moses...

This reading begins with a victory for God and His people as they work together against pagan enemies. Almost immediately they turned back to their complaining which led to a God-sent plague. Their cry to God led to His instructions regarding the brass serpent on a pole and—700 years later—used it as an object of worship (2 Kings 18). Hezekiah destroyed the “piece of brass.” After another 700 years, Jesus spoke of His Own connection to this serpent on a pole (John 3:14-15). This is just one source of meditation from Numbers 21.

Numbers 20: Where Do I Start?

Thirty-nine years of wandering are over. The last year begins—but the tragic story of sin in the wilderness is far from over. Now we read and meditate on death, quarrelling against Moses and Aaron, complaining, the sin of Moses and Aaron, their punishment, rejection by Edom, God’s view of rebellion, the death of Aaron, and the mourning of the whole assembly. Some people never learn. Let me learn, O Lord, not to become a person who cannot learn.

Numbers 19: "Beef Cattle Teaching Center"

So reads a sign near where we live. As a city boy, I can only imagine how they start teaching—”The reason you are called ‘Beef Cattle’ is…” The red heifer, the young bullock, the two turtledoves—and other animals—had no idea that they were born to die innocently for something that their slaughterers had done: SIN. But sin demands sacrifice—sacrifice that includes death. Every time we read about these animals, let us remember that they died because of someone else’s sin. And it continued until the Lamb of God allowed Himself to be led as a lamb to the slaughter. Let us be thankful, and let us be better people every day.

Numbers 18: No Inheritance

All of the tribes would get an inheritance! This had been the promise all the way back to the early chapters of Genesis (12,15). Every one of them would get their own land—except Levi (v. 20). But in the same verse—even the same sentence—Jehovah tells them that He would be their inheritance. Having God is always better than having land. They would have places to live, scattered all through Canaan. But their role as the tribe of priests was different, so their promise was in the connection they would have with God through their work. So it is with New Testament priests (1Peter 2:5-9).

Numbers 17: Now for the Rod

Twelve rods (branches; staffs) were to be chosen so that God could choose one of them as a sign against the dead rebels of chapter 16. He chose Aaron’s (Levi) by making it bud miraculously. They put his in the ark—and the others took theirs “home.” This was supposed to help them stop murmuring because it demonstrated—again—how God had arranged authority in Israel.

Numbers 16: Two Lands of Milk and Honey?

I really do not want to write a meditation that has anything to do with Korah. But here I am—Numbers 16—I hate this story. It is full of information about how the past can pull us back into it. God had promised them a land of milk and honey. Now these rebels are claiming that He had taken them out of such a land! And that He has NOT given them such a land! I do not want to be pulled into the past. I will not think of the past as “milk and honey.” I will thank God for this chapter and continue on toward the one land of milk and honey.

Numbers 15: Ignorance Is

Ignorance is mentioned eight times in this chapter. What is ignorance? Here, it is “not knowing.” A person did wrong—but he did not know. So what can we say about ignorance? · It is better than sinning “on purpose” (Psalm 19:13).
· It is no excuse—those who sin in ignorance have sinned.
· It has to be dealt with by sacrifice.
· It needs to be eliminated by learning!
Thank God that there is a remedy for ignorance and that He revealed the remedy (Acts 17:30-31).

Numbers 14: I Have Pardoned

How deep, how wide, how high, how long is the patience of God? By the time we get to verse 11, God has some questions for Moses about these things. Moses—how humbling must it have been for this conversation to take place—appeals to God regarding His Own nature (vv. 17-19). In verse 20, God says, “I have pardoned.” Mediate on that for the rest of your life.

Numbers 13: Twelve with a Mission

One man from each tribe was chosen to go into the land God was giving to them. The facts that God had promised this land to them hundreds of years earlier, He had led them from their bondage by mighty miracles, He had given them a new law—you get it, right? Well, why didn’t they? They should have gone on their mission with great excitement, knowing that they would find good things and great potential! Don’t get your hopes up—this is one of the saddest chapters in the Bible. But please read it anyway.

Numbers 12: I Am Meek

Moses was the author of the first five books of the Bible. In this chapter, he wrote about his own character. He says that he was meek (a man who had “strength under control”). This is one of many comparisons that we can make between Moses and Jesus (Matthew 11:28-30). This was by God’s design (Deuteronomy 18:15-19). Can you think of others? In what ways are you like Moses and Jesus? Are you—for example—meek and lowly in heart?

Numbers 11: The Melons

This word is used only once in the Bible—Numbers 11:5. It is a part of the complaint against God that was instigated by the “mixed multitude” that was traveling with Israel. The melons were food from their past and were used as an excuse to reject the good things that God provided for their journey. Had they chosen to honor God, a generation would have grown up who would have said, “What’s a melon?” Let us so live that our children are not tied to our past in such a way that they murmur against Jehovah God.

Numbers 10: Trumpets, Cloud, Standard, Journey, Covenant

A “slew” of words come before us in this chapter that are used to refer to everyday life among the Israelites at that time. All of these words take on great meaning in Israel, and in their other usages throughout the rest of the Bible. Try to think of all of this, and to see if there are other words in this reading with great meaning in both Testaments.

Numbers 9: Stand Still, and I Will Hear

Another illustration of the principle of our meditation on chapter 8 comes up in this reading. What were people supposed to do who could not observe the Passover properly? “Stand still.” “Wait while I find out the will of the Lord.” Moses would not presume to tell them what he thought or felt. He would get the answer from God and then tell them what to do about the Passover. When we want to know what to do in “special circumstances,” let us search the scriptures and find the answers in the written word. They are always there to be found and followed.

Numbers 8: Their Charge

This reading gives us information about the work of Levites until they reached the age of fifty. It is referred to as “their charge.” It comes from a word that means “duty.” There is nothing dishonorable about doing one’s duty, fulfilling requirements, upholding responsibilities. Too many people think that they can just “feel” their way through life, “serving” God according to their own ideas of right. Our “charge” before God is to learn and do His will by fulfilling our duties.

Numbers 7: On the First Day

This chapter has a very practical use in helping us to understand the language of a much more famous chapter: Genesis 1. The references to “first day” (verse 12) through the “twelfth day” (verse 78) illustrate the fact that when the Old Testament uses a numeral such as “first” before the word “day,” it is always speaking of twenty-four hour days! So, in addition to the actual instructions for these twelve days of offerings, Moses’ words help us to know how to view the historically accurate account of the first week of earth’s history.

Numbers 6: We Can't Miss This

Verses 24-26 are used to this day in connection with the desire for God’s blessings to shine upon people in all sorts of situations. But the paragraph begins at verse 22, reminding us not to miss the point that Moses was commanded to announce this blessing on the priests of Israel/God. Today, we are His priesthood. Let us live so that such a powerful fellowship will exist between us and God, too. But do not presume that you are in the priesthood—get in it by obeying the commands of the Savior (Revelation 1:5-6; James 3:3,5).

Numbers 5: Spirit of Jealousy

The “spirit of jealousy,” which is the feeling of suspicions against someone, has been the root of unlimited pain and sorrow in this world. This text has to do with such feelings of a man against his wife. The word of the Lord presents a plan which makes it imperative that he have a basis for his feeling, or the results of the test will expose his foolishness.

Numbers 4: Travel Plans

In order for Israel to arrive safely in Canaan after their baptism in the Red Sea (1 Corinthians 10), they had to travel faithfully along the path that God chose. This involved “travel plans.” Part of the travel plans included the details of “breaking camp” (verse 5). Our journey to our “land of milk and honey” includes a wide range of experiences, too. The New Testament is our travel guide (James 1:1; 1 Peter 1:1).

Numbers 3: The Firstborn Are Mine

Firstborn is a word that can be used as a singular or a plural word. Here (verse 13) it is in the plural. God claimed the firstborn of man and beast as His Own consecrated (hallowed) ones. No doubt this was by design so that when He announced that Jesus was His firstborn (Colossians 1:15,18), it would be a familiar theme. And then when He, by His marvelous grace, honors us with being firstborn when we obey the gospel (Hebrews 12:23), we get to have the knowledge of being consecrated and hallowed, too!

Numbers 2: Ensign

This is a word that refers to a flag representing a specific tribe. These were on poles and became the standard for that tribe. The plan of God was that the tribes maintain their identities and use these ensigns to be orderly in their setting up camp, breaking camp, and moving from place to place. It was to remind them of their heritage by keeping the name of their father’s house before them. What things remind you of your heritage that help you to have an orderly life?

Numbers 1: Again, They Obeyed

Thirteen months after the tribes were freed from Egypt, it was time to continue the march toward the promised land. The next thing to do was to count the men who were able to go to war in each tribe (except for Levi, the tribe of priests). The number came to 603,550. The last verse says that they did everything they were told to do in this matter. Their ability to obey Jehovah was clearly within their power—and it is within  our power, too (John 15:14).

Leviticus 27: Don't Forget the Souce of These Things

“These are the commandments, which the Lord commanded Moses for the children of Israel in Mount Sinai.”  This is the last verse of the book. Everything in Leviticus was given to Moses by God. Everything in Leviticus was part of the covenant they had agreed to follow (Exodus 24). It is still part of the inspired word of God. So, when the New Testament teaches us about priesthood, holiness, worship, cleanness, and the truth that “I am the Lord,” it would be a good idea for us to remember Leviticus.

Leviticus 26: I Will Break, Bring, Punish, Chastise...Remember

God made many promises to Israel regarding good things He would do when they obeyed. But He also made threats—grave warnings—made promises—regarding things He would do when they disobeyed. Verses 1-13 contain the first kind of promises. Verse 14 begins the second kind. They had already witnessed a long list of proofs that God meant what He said about these things. There was no excuse for them to miss this or to let anything keep them from telling their children about the “goodness and severity” of God. He is the same God today, so the same lessons need to be observed by us and taught by us to our children.

Leviticus 25: Jubilee

Every seventh year, Israel’s land was to be allowed to rest. After seven of those cycles, they were to let it rest again. During this fiftieth year, all sorts of things were to be returned, started over, begun again—we might call it a “clean slate.” The concept is truly amazing, and the plan would have been productive. But they didn’t follow it through. When the Lord later announced that the Babylonian captivity would last for seventy years, it was because the seventh year rest had not been observed seventy times! That’s 490 years—including nine Jubilees! What a pity when God’s plan is ignored (2 Chronicles 36:20-21).

Leviticus 24: He Blasphemed the Name

Here is another short chapter with a short historical narrative about another tragic event. As you read, keep this in the context of the times. Miracle after miracle was occurring in connection with proving the Holiness of the Lord God. During some kind of a fight, a woman’s son blasphemed “the Name.” We do not know what he said; we only know that it was something that was against (to blaspheme is “to speak against”) the Name. The penalty that “the Name” revealed was death by stoning. I ask you, is “the Name” any less holy today?

Leviticus 23: Some Call It Pentecost

The appointments for religion and daily life in Israel included a number of occasions that would be holy days. This reading covers them and their details. One of these holy occasions is called the feast of weeks, or harvest (vv. 15-22). It included seven full weeks and another day—the fiftieth. It later became known as Pentecost. Since the day of the beginning of this event was identified as the day after the Sabbath (v. 15), the fiftieth day was a Sunday. It was on this day that Jesus established His church (Acts 2:1-47).

Leviticus 22: Do Not Dare to Offer...

The restrictions given in this chapter are things that would compromise the approach of the Israelites to God. Really, though, they seem so simple and obvious that surely no one would ever need to be told about all of this—much less be tempted to go ahead and do it anyway! But read Malachi 1 and learn that even with the language of Leviticus 22 available to them, Israel actually offered God their “scraps” anyway! Each of the last four verses in this chapter says “I am the Lord.” Think of that before you offer Him anything.

Leviticus 21: There Are Standards for Priests

It seems to me that the instructions in this chapter for priests are designed to hold these men to a high standard to illustrate the significance of their role in Israel. Some of the standards relate to ceremony, some to morality, some to common sense (to keep from bringing their work down to the level of the anti-holy situations all around them), and some to appearances that could also compromise the need to be set apart (consecrated) as anything less than the best. Our priestly duties as the temple of the Lord today do not involve all of these details, but they do involve all of the principles.

Leviticus 20: ...For I Am the Lord Your God

This chapter ends with the greatest possible motivation to holiness—the holiness of Jehovah God (v. 26; see also v. 7). In the time since God called Moses to realize that he was standing on holy ground—less than one year—Israel had seen the most amazing illustrations of Jehovah’s holiness of all time. “Be holy”—“for I am God, and I am holy”—was the lesson they should take away from all of this. And He was making it possible by taking them away from the unholy nations around them so that they could be His (v. 26). Are you His? Are you holy?

Leviticus 19: Ye--All of You--Shall Be Holy

This chapter begins with one of the great challenges of the Bible. The whole community of Israelites is told to be holy. Holiness is the theme of this book for the priests—but it is also expected that all people should choose this manner of living. One of the beginning points of holiness is that each person was to learn holiness at home by respecting mother and father. As you read, meditate. And as you meditate, see what other things are in Leviticus 19 that will promote your own personal, holy life.

Leviticus 18: That the Land Spue Not

God had promised the land as His gift to Abraham’s family through Isaac. That it was a gift is certain, and that there were “strings attached” is also certain. Summed up, the word that would keep them in the land was “cleanness” (holiness), and the word that would get them vomited out was uncleanness” (unholiness). There is absolutely nothing difficult to understand here—but the land vomited them out anyway (see Revelation 3:14-22).

Leviticus 17: What About Blood?

When was the last time you saw blood? Blood is so repulsive to some people that they have even tried to translate it out of the Bible. But blood is life. Without blood, there is no life. The blood of animals was directly connected to God’s forgiveness and Jesus’ sacrifice. Blood is so important that we are not to eat it. God put life in the blood—physically and spiritually. When He “sees the blood,” we have hope. Decide to think about blood the way God thinks about it.

Leviticus 16: Atonement

I do not want to take anything away from this reading. So let me encourage you to meditate on such things as these as you read it: the trial and death of Jesus, the book of Hebrews, blood, lambs, sin, the forgiveness offered by God, the need to approach God as He commands, your own sins and weaknesses, and the predetermined plan of God that makes your atonement possible (Romans 3:23-31).

Leviticus 15: What Is All of This About? See Verse 31

Daily living is connected to the tabernacle. How we deal with clean/unclean during the week affects our offerings to God when we worship. Illustrating this with the “uncleanesses” of physical life (disease, childbirth, etc.) should make this easy to understand. But Nadab and Abihu missed the point, as well as Cain, Ananias and Sapphira, and thousands of Israelites when Moses was on the Mount of God! Do we get this? If we have been spiritually unclean, we should take care of it before we “go to church”!

Leviticus 14: In the Day of His Cleansing

What a great blessing it must have been to be clean from leprosy, to know it, and to have it confirmed by a ceremony designed by God. What a relief it must have been for such a person to have all of that in the past—and to point to a certain day as the day when it was confirmed: I AM CLEAN.

Leviticus 13: It Is a Plague

Some things are more serious than others. Some have more serious dangers and consequences than others. So it is with the skin diseases of this chapter. The King James Version uses the word “plague” to describe them—a truly frightening word. The tragedy of horrible diseases (such as leprosy) reminds us of the plague of sin. Note things that are parallel to the great “sin disease” as you read.

Leviticus 12: If She Be Not Able

In this brief chapter, we learn a lesson about the kindness of God. After bearing a child, a woman was to bring a sacrifice to God. However, if she were not able to bring the animals God prescribed, she could bring another [different] set. Meditate on the kindnesses of God in the New Testament (start in Titus 3:1).

Leviticus 11: Clean/Unclean

At least one lesson can come from this reading: God does not always have to say “why” a thing is so—He merely has to say it. Whether we can determine why some animals were clean and others were unclean does not matter. The fact that God clearly said which is and which is not,  is enough. This lesson should be applied wherever we read such terms—clean/unclean, holy/unholy, righteous/unrighteous are a few samples.

Leviticus 10: Fire from the Lord--Again

The glorious scene that ends the previous chapter involves fire from the Lord. One of the key factors has to do with the offerings. Those of chapter nine followed the instructions. That of chapter ten included something that was “strange” [not authorized]. They had no right to offer this fire because God had not given His approval in any way. So they died. Are the offerings that I present to Jehovah authorized? Or are they “strange” to Him? See Hebrews 12:29.

Leviticus 9: Fire from the Lord

Gaining the approval of God is always dependant upon obedience. This moving chapter is an illustration of how pleased God really is when we just do what He wants us to do. The visible reaction of God in consuming the offerings by fire was a sign of His approval. It should also have been a lesson about His power to react strongly to sin. It might be a good lesson to keep reading into Leviticus 10 after finishing 9:24.

Leviticus 8: Consecrations

This word refers to something that is set (as gems in a piece of jewelry). Aaron and his sons were consecrated (set) by the processes given in this chapter. That “setting” was so that these men (and the rest of the Levites) could be seen as set apart people in Israel for these special services. It was an incredible occasion, and those who were involved in it did all of the commands that Moses gave them (v. 36).

Leviticus 7: ...Which the Lord Commanded:

It is one thing to call something a law—it is another to say that it is commanded by Jehovah God, the Lord of Hosts. As such, the laws were wise, doable, useful, necessary, and—as verse one says—“it is most holy.” God’s laws are always on the side of holiness. They always are against unholiness. Not only that—“it is most holy.” The fact that it is holy makes it “most” holy! In the original, “most holy” is ONE WORD! This particular word (Strong’s #6944) is used often to stress the fact that the “holy” is “wholly” dedicated to the “Holy” Lord.

Leviticus 6: This Is the Law...

The instructions of the previous chapters regarding five kinds of sacrifices (some voluntary, some mandatory) were not merely suggestions. “This is the law”  is a reminder that even voluntary things are to be done according to the rules that God gives. We are never free to operate outside the law of God and expect His blessing at the same time. The law applied to the offender and to the priests who were involved in the offering.

Leviticus 5: Bring a Trespass Offering

A list of possible infractions is given to illustrate when a person would be obligated to make this offering. Again I am reminded of the fact that it would be easy to limit the number of times that a person would have to do this—just become more conscientious! Think, put your heart into your service, pray to God for help, and say “NO!” to the appeal of trespassing. According to the reading of this chapter, trespassing is possible in all situations, so the need to be vigilant is constant.

Leviticus 4: Bring a Sin Offering

Sins of ignorance—unintentionally done—are treated in this reading. This type of violation required a sacrifice. We are not told how often people actually did this, but the cost in time and animals would be enormous for people who did not exercise their minds in learning the law and exercise their wills in keeping it! But the cost for our sins to God—well, that is what the law was foreshadowing, wasn’t it? Read this chapter with great reverence and gratefulness.

Leviticus 3: Bring a Peace Offering

This was a voluntary offering that could be animal or grain. It was a “requital”—giving back to signify the peace that existed between the giver and Jehovah. It is a powerful reminder that the peace we have (or want to have) is connected to fellowship. People who understand the beauty of fellowship want it. And people who attain peace are thankful offerers of “goods and services” that maintain the peace and the fellowship.

Leviticus 2: Bring a Grain Offering

The King James Version has the word “meat”—referring to the edible part of grain (flour). This offering was  first given to the Lord. Then, they would usually burn part of it and use the rest for food. They were not to use yeast or honey in it. This offering is connected with the word “memorial.” It was used as a remembrance of something that would promote this type of offering. What remembrances of yours and mine would lead us to such a sacrifice to Jehovah?

Leviticus 1: Bring a Burnt Offering

The word for this is “holocaust.” This offering was entirely burned to the Lord. Note that it was—when offered correctly—a sweet aroma to Him. In order to be well-pleasing to Jehovah, the plan outlined in this chapter needed to be followed. Where there were options, the worshipper could choose; where there were no options, he could not.  Let us learn from the law of the burnt offering that when we give something to the Lord, it is His—all of it.

Exodus 40: Moses Was Like Noah--Am I?

Exodus 40:16—“Thus did Moses: according to all that the Lord commanded him, so did he.” Genesis 6:22—Thus did Noah: according to all that God commanded him, so did he.” Few, if any, people have ever been given as many commands with as many details as these two men were given. Noah got his “to do” list when he was 480 years old—Moses was “only” 80 when he got his! And then life got much harder for a long time for each of them. We have our “to do” list, too. See Colossians 3:17; Revelation 22:14—but first read and meditate on Exodus 40, especially noting how it ends.

Exodus 39: Holiness to the Lord

This phrase was on a plate that was part of the headpiece worn by the high priest (v. 30). When we think of the motivation that the priest would have to wear it, to be holy, to live up to his calling, we can easily see how helpful it would be. But when we think about how evil some of the priests were down through time—even to the trial of Jesus—it shows another side of human potential. Today all Christians are priests (1 Peter 2:5-9), and we must live up to the responsibilities and honors of being in this holy priesthood (1 Peter 1:13-16).

Exodus 38: This Is the Sum

This word refers often to counting things or people (it is in Numbers more than 90 times). God took account of all of the items that were given for the work of making the tabernacle and all of the people who were involved (including the workers and those who would need the services of the tabernacle). God sums up everything about our lives and uses it accurately to determine what He ought to do for us or to us. We should also take account of things in our lives and service, knowing that we will give an account to Him. God was able to do great things with what He got from them. Examine yourself as you read this text.

Exodus 37: Do You Know Bezaleel?

How would you like a craftsman to work on your house who was being guided by the Holy Spirit? Bezaleel was such a man (31:15). God chose him to do much of the work in the making of the tabernacle. This was before the idolatry of Exodus 32. After that incident, he was still the choice. We do not know much about Bezaleel, but what we do know is though-provoking. He was clearly a wise-hearted man who put everything into his work. When we obey the gospel we are to obey from the heart (Romans 6:16-18; see verses 3-4). Then, we serve from the heart and soul for the rest of our lives (Ephesians 5:19; 6:6).

Exodus 36: More Heart

In the first eight verses, “heart” comes up three more times (verses 2 and 8). All of this serves as the basis for the successful works that are noted in the rest of this reading. Put your own heart into the reading and think about what an honor it must have been to do these things. The work done in this chapter served Israel well until Solomon built the temple 480 years later (1 Kings 6:1). Our stirred up, wise harts can do things today that will live on even longer than that!

Exodus 35: Heart

Nine times in this chapter Moses writes of hearts that were “willing,” “wise,” “stirred up,” and ready to “teach.” It is surely one of the best chapters on the heart in the Bible. You would do well to highlight the nine references (verses 5,10,21,22,25,26,29,34,35). God desired the hearts of the Israelites. Three chapters earlier, they gave their hearts to newly-made idols. God’s work, including the making of a physical tent (tabernacle), cannot be done acceptably if the heart is not involved. When it is, the workers and the true God accomplish wonderful things (see verses 30-34).

Exodus 34: The Lord, The Lord God Is...

The reading begins with the making of two more tablets to replace the ones Moses had broken. Then we have this:             “And the Lord descended in the cloud,
                                   and stood with him there,
                                  and proclaimed the name of the Lord.”

Everything we know about God is what He has revealed about Himself. That which He proclaimed here is among the most complete, useful, and moving revelations in the Bible. The terms that are used in verses 6, 7, and 14, as well as the narrative that follows, are truths that deserve our meditation time without ceasing.

Exodus 33: Stiffnecked

How many times does God call His people this in the Bible? The word is used nearly forty times—plenty of them refer to Israel’s harsh, carnal, and stubborn spirit, and none of them should ever have occurred. Twice in this reading (vv. 3,5), Moses is instructed to tell the people that this is God’s view of them. In view of the idolatry and immorality of chapter 32, it is no wonder that He saw them this way. But even more remarkable is that He still planned to give them the “land flowing with milk and honey”!

Exodus 32: Who Is on the Lord's Side?

Who could have predicted the story line of this chapter? The people had made one of the most remarkable commitments ever in chapter 24; Moses had gone up the mount of God to receive the covenant, and we have just read the details of a remarkable law, tabernacle, and priesthood. But...meanwhile...the people went to Aaron and...well, read it for yourself. Please, read it for yourself. Look at yourself as you read. When you get to verse 26, answer the question for yourself. After you finish Exodus 32, please take the time to read it again. Reading it out loud to yourself would be good, too.

Exodus 31: Written with the Finger of God

God’s active participation in the life of this newborn nation is all through Exodus. What a comforting truth this is! Included in His participation was the deliverance of His word to them. In spite of the mountain of evidence that exists to show the true origin of the entire Bible, people continue to reject such facts as the one that while Moses was on the mountain of Sinai, he received tablets of stone that were actually written by God—the finger of God.

Exodus 30: Mercy Seat

This word means “a lid”—but what a special lid it was! It covered the ark of the covenant. Once each year, on the Day of Atonement, blood was sprinkled on it for the sins of the high priest and the people. In the New Testament, Jesus is our “mercy seat” (Romans 3:24-26). Think about Him and what He is to us as you read. Don’t forget that He is also our High Priest and our Lamb (Hebrews 4:14-16; John 1:29).

Exodus 29: And, And, And

This word is used many hundreds of times in the Bible. Most of the time, we probably read right past it. That is probably not a good thing to do! In the last two verses of this chapter that deals with the consecration of the priests, Jehovah gives three “ands” that would be the results of this consecration—

                 and—“I will dwell among the children of Israel”

                 and—“will be their God”

                 and—“They shall know that I am the Lord their God”

Now count the “thats” in the same verses (45-46).

Exodus 28: Wisehearted

The combination of two words here makes it clear that the heart (including the emotions) can do what is wise (correct as a result of good thinking). There is no use in separating thinking from feeling. God thinks and feels; He made us in His image; we think and feel; so we need to learn to be as the people in this chapter were—wisehearted. Also notice that God worked in and through these people to make sure that the garments of the priest were made correctly.

Exodus 27: As It Was Shown--So Shall They Make It

EXODUS 27: As It Was Shown—So Shall They Make It: When God wants something to be done a certain way, He always reveals everything we need to know in order to please Him. God wanted the altar to be made with boards and to be hollow—He even showed this to Moses on the mountain (v. 8). He expected it to be made that way. Every commandment includes some detail—and apart from doing it according to any detail He gives—it is not acceptable to God. As you read this chapter, note other things that God wants done in a certain way.

Exodus 26: Details Matter to God

To say that the proper spirit (voluntary giving) of chapter 25 is necessary does not imply that our actions are not important. This chapter makes it clear that the details of our obedience are as important to God as the heart. This is the “in truth” part of John 4:24. It is the singing of acceptable words of Ephesians 5:19. Every act of obedience to God is made acceptable when the voluntary impulses of a sincere heart are combined with the actions that God said He wants (John 14:15). Simply stated, sincerity is not enough for a person to please God. The details matter to God—do they also matter to me?