June 19 -- "Census of the New Generation"

 Today's Reading: Numbers 26:1-34

"Census of the New Generation"

God is omniscient. He has complete knowledge of all things. He already knew how many Israelites there were. So, why did He instruct Moses to conduct a census? While we cannot fully comprehend God's motives or intentions, there are a few possible reasons for God's instruction:

Practical and organizational purposes: Conducting a census would provide a tangible and practical means of organizing and preparing the Israelites for their journey and the challenges they would face. From a human perspective, a census would provide valuable information for effective planning and leadership.

Teaching lessons and reinforcing trust: God often used specific commands and actions to teach His people important lessons and to reinforce their trust and obedience. The census served as a means to teach the Israelites about their identity as God's chosen people.

As markers of their progress: The censuses also had symbolic or prophetic significance. The first census marked the fulfillment of God’s promise to Abraham regarding the numerous descendants he would have (Genesis 15:5). The second census, conducted after the forty years of wandering, marked the fulfillment of God's judgment on the previous generation and the preparation of the new generation to enter the Promised Land.

Ultimately, the specific reasons behind God's instructions regarding the census remain somewhat mysterious. It's important to remember that God's actions and commands are not always fully explained in the Biblical text. And, quite often, His purposes for us as Christ followers are not fully explained in our lives. They are part of His divine plan and wisdom, which surpass our human understanding. Isaiah 55:8-9 states, "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord.’

This passage in Isaiah emphasizes the vast difference between God's wisdom, understanding, and ways compared to our limited human perspectives. It serves as a reminder that God's ways are beyond our comprehension and that His plans and purposes often diverge from our own expectations or understanding. This encourages humility, trust, and reliance on God's wisdom rather than solely relying on our own limited understanding.

June 18 -- "The Promised Star and Scepter"

 Today's Reading: Numbers 24 & 25

"The Promised Star and Scepter"

In this particular verse, Balaam prophesied about a future figure who would emerge from the nation of Israel. The "star" and "scepter" symbolize a powerful ruler, suggesting a significant leader or king who would arise from the lineage of Jacob. This prophecy is a foreshadowing of Jesus Christ, who was born as a descendant of Jacob.

For the ancient Israelites, this prophecy provided hope and assurance. It spoke of a future Messianic figure who would bring salvation, establish a kingdom, and lead the people of God. This promise reminded them that God had a plan and purpose for their nation, even amidst challenges and struggles. It encouraged them to remain faithful to God and trust in His promises.

The star symbolizes the prominence and uniqueness of the future leader. It points to Jesus Christ, who is referred to as the "bright morning star" (Revelation 22:16). Later on, Jesus' birth would be accompanied by the appearance of a special star that guided the magi to find Him (Matthew 2:1-2).

The "scepter" is a symbol of authority and rulership. It is a staff or rod held by a king or ruler, signifying their power and sovereignty. In the context of the prophecy, the scepter represents the leadership and dominion that the future ruler from Israel would possess. Jesus Christ fulfills this role as the Messianic King who exercises divine authority over all creation. In the New Testament, Jesus is described as the "King of kings" (Revelation 19:16) and the one to whom all authority has been given (Matthew 28:18).

This verse reminds you of the hope and assurance you have in Christ. It points to Jesus as the ultimate ruler and authority in your life. As you follow Him, you can trust that He will guide and lead you. Just as the ancient Israelites found hope in this prophecy, you can find encouragement knowing that God has a plan and purpose for your life, even amidst challenges and uncertainties.

June 17 -- "The Trustworthy God: Unchanging and True"

 Today's Reading: Numbers 23

"The Trustworthy God: Unchanging and True"

Today’s amazing words, spoken by Balaam, served as a reminder to the Israelites that God's promises are reliable and trustworthy. They emphasized the unchanging nature of God and His commitment to fulfill what He had spoken. In the context of the narrative, these words reassured the Israelites that no matter the opposition they faced, God would protect and bless them according to His plan.

These words reaffirm the core character of God, emphasizing that He is not like humans who may lie or change their minds. This truth is repeated many times in the Bible, including Hebrews 6:18, which states, “it is impossible for God to lie.” God's words are sure, and His promises are steadfast. This verse encourages believers to trust in God's faithfulness and rely on His unchanging nature.

In practical terms, this verse should inspire Christians to have unwavering faith in God's promises. It calls for a steadfast belief that what God has spoken, He will bring to pass. It invites us to anchor our lives on the truth of God's Word and live with confidence in His unchanging nature.

Let us hold fast to the truth revealed here, that our God is a God of unwavering faithfulness. In a world filled with uncertainties and shifting circumstances, we can find solace in His unchanging nature. Let us trust in His promises and stand firm on His Word. Despite the challenges we face, remember that God is not a man who lies or changes His mind. He remains steadfast, and His plans for us are sure.

In our daily lives, let us live with the confidence that God will fulfill what He has spoken. Let us rely on His guidance and wisdom, knowing that His promises will never fail. May our faith be unwavering, our trust unshakable, and our hope secure in the unchanging God we serve.

June 16 -- "Fidelity to God's Word"

Today's Reading: Numbers 22:22-41 

"Fidelity to God's Word"

Balaam’s declaration that "The word that God puts in my mouth, that must I speak" conveys a profound commitment to upholding and faithfully proclaiming only the truth revealed by God. The word we use to describe this unwavering adherence to God’s word is “fidelity," the degree of exactness with which something is copied or reproduced. Our fidelity is expressed in several ways, including:

Uncompromising Faithfulness: Just as Balaam recognized the necessity of speaking only what God had given him to say, fidelity to God's Word requires unwavering dedication to the Bible’s teachings and principles. It means embracing the entirety of Scripture as God's inspired and authoritative Word, without diluting or distorting its message to suit personal preferences or societal trends.

Rejecting Distortions: Fidelity to God's Word also entails guarding against the introduction of human interpretations or cultural influences that may compromise its truth. It means valuing the integrity and accuracy of Scripture, interpreting it within its proper context, and resisting the temptation to reinterpret or alter its teachings to fit prevailing ideologies.

Alignment with God's Truth: Fidelity to God's Word necessitates aligning our beliefs, values, and actions with His divine principles. It requires submitting our own desires, opinions, and agendas to the authority of Scripture, allowing it to shape our worldview, guide our decisions, and transform our lives.

Proclaiming the Gospel: Fidelity means conveying the message of salvation through Jesus Christ and proclaiming the love, grace, and redemption found only in Him. Fidelity to God's Word compels us to faithfully communicate the gospel's transformative power without compromise or distortion.

Tragically, much of modern Christianity has strayed far from the principle of fidelity by practicing selective Bible interpretation which has led to a distortion of the overall message of the Bible as certain teachings or moral principles are emphasized or de-emphasized based on personal preferences or cultural influences.

Fidelity to God's Word requires a comprehensive and balanced approach to Biblical interpretation, taking into account the entire counsel of Scripture. As modern-day Christ followers, fidelity to God's Word should be our steadfast commitment. Let us embrace the Bible as the ultimate authority for faith and life, seeking its wisdom and guidance in every aspect of our existence. 

June 15 -- "You Can't Curse What God Has Blessed"

 Today's Reading: Numbers 22:1-21

"You Can't Curse What God Has Blessed"

This verse is part of the account of Balaam, a non-Israelite prophet who was summoned by Balak, the king of Moab, to curse the Israelites. The Israelites were journeying through the wilderness towards the Promised Land. King Balak, fearing their growing numbers and military strength, sought to hinder their progress by having Prophet Balaam curse them. However, when Balaam inquired of God, the Lord instructed him not to go with King Balak's messengers and not to curse the Israelites because they were a blessed people.

This verse carries important lessons for modern-day Christ followers. Firstly, it reminds us of the power of God's blessing. Just as the Israelites were blessed by God, so are believers in Jesus Christ. As Christians, we have been blessed with forgiveness, salvation, the Holy Spirit, and the promise of eternal life. This blessing should fill us with gratitude and remind us that we are under the protection of our loving Heavenly Father, who will not permit our enemy to prosper over us.

Secondly, Numbers 22:12 teaches us about the importance of seeking God's guidance and obeying His instructions. Prophet Balaam initially desired to go with King Balak's messengers for personal gain, but he was instructed by God not to do so. Similarly, as Christians, we should seek God's will in every aspect of our lives. We must be willing to listen to His voice, follow His guidance, and align our actions with His Word.

It is vitally important that we recognize and appreciate the blessings we have received through our faith in Jesus Christ. Remember that our lives are marked by God's favor and that we are called to be a blessing to others. Seek God's guidance earnestly, allowing His Word and the Holy Spirit to shape our decisions and actions. Let obedience to God's commands be the foundation of our lives, and may our thoughts, words, and deeds reflect the love and righteousness of Christ.

In a world that often promotes self-centeredness, materialism, and moral relativism, let us be lights that shine with the truth and grace of the Gospel. Through our words and actions, let us point others to the blessings found in a relationship with Jesus Christ. May we be known as a people who walk in obedience to God's will, exemplifying His love, compassion, and justice in our interactions with others.

June 14 -- "Look and be Healed"

Today's Reading: Numbers 21 

"Look and be Healed"

The Israelites were grumbling against God and Moses because they were tired of the journey and the food. As a result, God sent venomous snakes to bite them, and many of them died. When the people cried out for help, God instructed Moses to create a bronze serpent and put it on a pole. Anyone who looked at the serpent after being bitten would be healed and live.

The healing of the Israelites from the snake bites was supernatural and beyond human capabilities. The venom of the snakes was deadly, and there was no known cure for it at the time. However, when the Israelites looked at the bronze serpent on the pole, they were healed immediately. There was no actual power in the bronze serpent itself. This healing could only have been accomplished through the power of God.

This event is significant because it is a foreshadowing of Jesus Christ's death on the cross. Jesus Himself refers to it in John 3:14-15, "And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life." Jesus is the "bronze serpent" on the pole, and just as the Israelites looked to the serpent and were healed, we can look to Jesus and be saved from our sin.

The healing of the Israelites from the snake bites was a physical representation of the spiritual healing that comes from believing in Jesus Christ and His sacrifice on the cross.

For modern-day Christ followers, this reminds us of God's power to save and heal. We are all bitten by the venom of sin, but if we look to Jesus, we can be saved and have eternal life. It also reminds us of the importance of faith and obedience. The Israelites had to look at the serpent to be healed, just as we must look to Jesus in faith to be saved.

So, let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the Author and Perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). Let us trust in Him for salvation and turn away from sin. Look to Him and be saved!

June 13 -- "When Frustration Leads to Disobedience"

 Today's Reading: Numbers 19 & 20

"When Frustration Leads to Disobedience"

This verse refers to an incident that took place during the Israelites' journey through the wilderness. The people were thirsty and complained to Moses and Aaron about the lack of water. God instructed Moses to take his staff and speak to a rock, and water would come out for the people to drink. However, instead of speaking to the rock, Moses struck it with his staff. Twice. Water still came out, but God was displeased with Moses' disobedience.

It is possible that Moses was feeling frustrated or overwhelmed by the constant complaints and disobedience of the Israelites. Moses' frustration and anger towards the Israelites may have contributed to his actions, detracting from his ability to accurately portray God's attitude of patience, mercy, and love towards His people. Psalm 106:32-33 describes this incident as a "rebellion" and attributes the punishment of Moses and Aaron to their failure to "show God's holiness."

The application of this verse in its original context is clear: God expects obedience and faithfulness from His leaders, and disobedience has consequences. Moses' disobedience resulted in him being unable to enter the Promised Land, and Aaron also suffered consequences for his involvement.

In modern-day life, the principle of obedience and faithfulness still applies. Christians are called to obey God's commands and follow His will, even when we are frustrated and when His will is difficult or unpopular. The consequences of disobedience may not be as immediate or dramatic as they were for Moses and Aaron, but they still exist. Disobedience can damage our relationships with God and others, hinder our spiritual growth, and lead us away from the blessings that God has in store for us

In short, disobedience can keep us from "entering the promised land" – that place of spiritual rest, peace, and abundance that God has promised to His faithful followers.

Therefore, Christians should seek to be faithful and obedient to God in all aspects of their lives. This means seeking His will, yielding to the Holy Spirit, and following His commands, even when it requires sacrifice or going against popular opinion. By doing so, we can experience the blessings that come from living in accordance with God's plan for our lives.

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