June 22 -- "Pentecost: The Feast of Weeks"

Today's Reading: Numbers 28 

"Pentecost: The Feast of Weeks"

Today’s passage introduces us to the Feast of Weeks, also known as Pentecost. This feast occurred 50 days after the offering of the firstfruits during the Passover season. It was a time of celebration and thanksgiving for God's provision, particularly the harvest of wheat. The Feast of Weeks held both agricultural and spiritual significance, reminding the Israelites of God's faithfulness and their dependence on Him. The term "Pentecost" is derived from the Greek word "Pentēkostē," meaning "fiftieth," as it falls on the fiftieth day after the Passover Sabbath.

In the New Testament, the Feast of Weeks takes on a deeper meaning. On the day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit descended upon the early believers, empowering and equipping them for their mission to spread the Gospel. This marked the birth of the Church, and Pentecost became a commemoration of the outpouring of the Spirit and the harvest of souls.

As followers of Christ today, we can apply the principles of the Feast of Weeks to our lives. We should celebrate and express gratitude for God's provision and faithfulness. We can also recognize the vital role of the Holy Spirit in empowering us for service and proclaiming the Good News to others. Just as the early believers were commissioned to go and make disciples, we too are called to share the message of salvation.

Let us remember the significance of the Feast of Weeks and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. In our celebration, let us honor God as the ultimate source of provision in our lives. Take time to express gratitude for His faithfulness, acknowledging that every good and perfect gift comes from Him.

June 21 -- "Laying on of Hands"

 Today's Reading: Numbers 27

"Laying on of Hands"

Numbers 27:18 reveals a powerful act that carries deep significance—laying on of hands. When God instructed Moses to lay his hands on Joshua, it symbolized the impartation of authority, anointing, and blessing. This act represented a transfer of leadership and invoked the presence and power of the Holy Spirit upon Joshua's life. Joshua, of course, was chosen to succeed Moses because of the leadership qualities he practiced and the noticeable presence of the Holy Spirit within his life.

In the New Testament, we see the practice of laying on of hands continuing as a means of imparting spiritual gifts, healing, commissioning, and consecration. As believers, we can participate in this practice with reverence and expectation. We can lay hands on others in prayer, identifying with them and invoking God's power and grace upon their lives.

Today, consider the opportunities to lay hands on others. It may be during times of intercession when praying for healing, guidance, or breakthrough. It could also be during a time of commissioning or consecration, as you recognize someone's calling or appoint them to a specific task in God's kingdom.

Let us not underestimate the significance and power of laying on of hands. When we lay hands on others, we are participating in a divine act that connects us to God's authority and invites His intervention. It is an act of faith, acknowledging our dependence on Him and trusting in His ability to work through us.

Today, be open to the leading of the Holy Spirit as you consider the opportunities to lay hands on and pray for others. Allow God to work through you, knowing that His power and presence are released when we act in obedience. May you experience the transformative work of the Spirit as you participate in this sacred practice.

June 20 -- "God's Faithful Fulfillment"

 Today's Reading: Numbers 26:35-65

"God's Faithful Fulfillment"

Today’s reading captures a significant moment in Israel's history as they prepared to enter the Promised Land. The Lord commanded Moses to allocate the land for inheritance among the tribes based on their population. This verse emphasizes God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to His people.

This verse reminds us of the faithfulness of God in our lives today. Just as He allocated the land for inheritance to each tribe, He also has a unique plan and purpose for each one of us. We can draw several key applications from this passage.

First, trust in God's provision. Just as He promised to provide land for His people, He promises to provide "spiritual land" for us. In times of uncertainty or lack, we can trust in His faithfulness and rely on His provision, knowing that He is a God who keeps His word.

Second, embrace your individual calling. Just as each tribe received a unique portion of the land, we have been uniquely gifted and called by God. He has allocated “spiritual land” specifically to you where you can experience His presence and discover purpose for your life. Embrace the specific purpose and plan He has for your life, knowing that He has placed you where you are for a reason.

Let us anchor our faith in the unchanging nature of God's promises. Regardless of the challenges we may face, remember that God is faithful to fulfill what He has spoken over our lives. Take hold of His promises with confidence, knowing that He is a God who honors His word.

As you journey through life,  trust in His provision and guidance. Seek His will and surrender to His leading, allowing Him to direct your steps. Just as He faithfully divided the land among the tribes, He will guide and provide for you as He leads you to your individual “promised land”.

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.