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February 10 + Daily readings & notes

DAY 41

Just because we're done with Leviticus doesn't mean we're done with the theme of holiness.  Watch today's video to see a great illustration of how to understand holiness with God.




DAILY READINGS

Numbers 5-7 & Psalm 41

DAILY NOTES

Numbers 5:1-4
  • Those with "leprosy" were brought out of the camp so that the rest of the people would not be "defiled."  
Numbers 5:5-10
  • If someone wrongs someone else the offender should bring restitution.
Numbers 5:11-31
  • What to do with your adulterous wife.  Well, what to do with, you think, your adulterous wife.  Well, what to do with your wife if you're not sure if she's been adulterous or are just feeling a little jealous with her.
  • The man does not need to have proof against her.  The proof will be in the results of the ceremony.
    • Should we assume that if the woman does not want to take part in the drinking of the water of bitterness that she would be accused/assumed to be guilty for sure?
  • And if your husband puts you through all this even if you're innocent, he gets off without any punishment.
Numbers 6
  • The entire chapter concerns the vows and the ritual of becoming a nazirite.  
  • This seems to be the ritual for a temporary vow because Verse 20 says, after their ceremony, they can drink wine again.
Numbers 7
  • The leaders of Israel bring their offerings to God.
  • Have you ever heard that "what I give to the Lord is between me and the Lord"?  That doesn't apply here.  The entire chapter is recollection of the leaders' offerings to God.  
  • The chapter ends by speaking to Moses' connection with God, as the one who continues to receive word from the Lord.
Psalm 41
  • The concern we display for the poor/weak mirrors a concern God has for all of us.  

OTHER OBSERVATIONS

I'm wondering if some of us are about to make nazirite-type vows.

Although not fully known, there were difference reasons to take a nazirite vow.  Perhaps you were making amends for a bad attitude or habit.  You may have received the fulfillment of a wish or desire.  Maybe you were hoping to keep away from a particular sin.

The vow you made was a way to be set apart for the Lord in an intentional way.  Everyone knew what you were doing and what to expect from you (i.e. wine and hair cuts).

With Lent almost here, maybe you're considering a similar kind of vow to God.  You probably haven't thought about what you're going to do with your hair, but you may be preparing to give up something as a way to draw closer to God.  With that in mind, be more intentional in what you're going to give up.  And the point isn't just to give it up for the sake of giving it up.  Use this vow time to pray and seek God's guidance in a meaningful way.

Stay blessed...john
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