March 31

Judges 6-7
The Israelites had turned away from God to the degree that God had finally abandoned them, allowing stronger nations to overcome them. When, at last, they cried out to the Lord, He heard them and delivered them. However, He did it in such a fashion as to demonstrate His power, so that there would be no mistaking who has ultimate control. We see Him using a small, insignificant man, Gideon, with a small band of men, using unlikely weapons, jars, trumpets, and torches, to overcome the Midianites who were so numerous, we're told they were beyond counting! God chooses this manner of deliverance so that the Israelites won't be able to take the credit for themselves. God has not changed. He still desires to act on our behalf, and He still deserves the credit for having done so! How many times have we been delivered from sickness, financial ruin, oppression, etcetera, and then taken the credit for what God has clearly accomplished? It may be subtle, but it's just as damaging. I once knew a man who took credit for his son's life, saying that it was his massaging his son's feet that had healed him of his deadly pancreatitis. Or, how about when we come out of financial ruin and boldly proclaim that it came about because of our own hard work? Even worse, when one is delivered from Satan because God has placed His servant in that person's life, then Christians come up with alternate explanations for the placement, instead of giving glory to God for the active work of His Holy Spirit! As Paul says to the Romans, "No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us." (Romans 8:37)

March 30

Judges 3-5
God can, and does, use anyone for His purposes. In this section we find Him using wicked leaders to teach the Israelites a lesson, and then He raises two women, Deborah and Jael, to lead His people to victory! Through Deborah's leadership the Israelites defeated their enemies and enjoyed peace for forty years. Jael proved that a woman can have possess enough courage to defeat God's enemies when she drives a tent peg through Sisera's temple. For those who choose to limit the role of our women in the church, this should speak volumes about God's will in the matter. Having said that, let me hasten to add that Deborah, being a virtuous woman, offered to be led by a man. It was the man, Barak, who asked her to lead. My point is that God made the natural order of things with man at the head. However, when we choose to place a woman in a leadership role, God will bless that decision, and He will be with her and the people she leads. Ultimately, in the final outcome, there will be no distinction between male and female.

March 29

Judges 1-2
Just one generation removed from those who had been alive through the exodus from Egypt, and they are already turning away from the Lord. Seems to be unreal that it could happen so quickly. Yet, in my short lifespan of a little over sixty years I have seen dramatic changes in our cultural mores. It seems that succeeding generations tend to ignore the lessons of history, and believe they have a better way. Unfortunately, that isn't always the case. In my lifetime I've witnessed the death of respect for elders. The youth of today hardly ever address those who are older with terms of respect, such as, sir and ma'am. Instead of seeing these folks as storehouses of wisdom and knowledge, many young people see them as objects of ridicule. Authority figures are looked upon with suspicion and disgust. Sexual perversion is now glorified. Marriage is no longer sacred. Many believe that it's only wrong if you get caught. Doing what is right just because it is right is rare. A person's word being their bond is practically unheard of. Filth language is not only spoken in front of women and children, it is spoken through them. Politics is more about character assassination than issues. And, instead of the country rallying around the victor for the good of the country, people seek to destroy him or her without any regard for the damage done. It sounds pretty bleak when you realize this has all come to pass in about half a century. The root cause is the same as it was for Israel. People have taken their eyes off God, seeing His commands and guidelines as obsolete, believing they have a better way. Church attendance has dropped to historic lows, and even fewer people read the Bible, taking it as the supreme authority for life. However, just as with the Israelites, there is still a remnant who follow God, recognizing His word to be the only reliable guide. For this remnant it isn't unusual to see them sitting at the feet of senior citizens, gleaning the wisdom born from a lifetime in the Lord.

March 28

Joshua 22-24
Bob Dylan wrote a song several years ago with the title, "You Gotta Serve Somebody." The chorus stated that "it may be the devil, or it may be the Lord, but you gonna have to serve somebody." This is what Joshua is telling the Israelites when he challenges them to choose whom they will serve, whether the gods of the nations, or the one true God. Joshua had made his choice when he said, "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord!" We have the same choice to make, whether we will serve this world or serve God. Jesus says that we can't serve both God and money. There is a serious conflict when we attempt to do so. We end up only giving lip service to one or the other. Unfortunately, the one that always gets the short stick is God, and He refuses anything but first place in our lives. He must come before anything or anyone. So, we have a decision to make. Will we make God number one in our life, or will we just give Him lip service?

March 27

Joshua 19-21
"Not one of all the Lord ’s good promises to the house of Israel failed; every one was fulfilled." So ends today's reading. Isn't that great?! If this is a demonstration of God's faithfulness, and we had better believe it is, then we who live under a greater covenant, ratified by God's only Son, should take great comfort. The Israelites were living under a covenant that compares to the new covenant much like a bicycle would compare to a luxury automobile. Or, maybe better yet, like being confined to bed compared to travelling the world at will.

Furthermore, their response to God's deliverance was shameful. They constantly rebelled against the Lord. And, to really top it off, He knew that they would continue to sin, failing to keep their part in the covenant they had made with God. Yet, despite all their shortcomings, God remains faithful in fulfilling His promises. How much more will He keep His promises to His Son's bride? There's a wonderful promise given in Paul's writings to Timothy, stating that even when we are faithless, God remains faithful. What greater proof to that testimony could we ask than that which is given in today's reading?

March 26

Joshua 16-18
Reading about the portions of land meted out to the several tribes of Israel as their inheritance from God can be a bit tedious. It's awesome that He would lead them to the promised land and offer this magnificent gift, but did you catch the part about them having to drive the inhabitants from their land before they could take possession? It's as if God is giving them a gift they have to earn. However, it's a bit more complicated than that. When God tells them they must overcome their enemies in order to receive their gift, it is not a matter of them accomplishing this through their own efforts. Rather, it is their believing that God will give them the victory. There is no question about the final outcome, because God cannot be defeated. Therefore, the gift comes through faith, and the faith comes through hearing God's word, followed by action, obeying God's word. Sounds a lot like James words to the church, where he proclaims that faith without works is dead. Some believe that to follow God's leading we must simply sit back and wait for Him to accomplish what's needed. All the while God is saying that we must make our own decisions, trusting that He will bless those decisions and work through us to bring about the fulfillment of His will.

March 25

Joshua 12-15
Boundaries are set for the tribes of Israel. Caleb receives a special portion to himself because of his faithfulness some forty-five years earlier. In other words, he receives special treatment because of his faith. Does God show favortism? Certainly not in the giving of what is promised. All of the Israelites received the promised land. However, He does choose the give over and beyond what He has promised as a reward for special faith. We sing an old hymn that asks the question, "Will there be any stars in my crown?" Having a crown is not under consideration; a crown has already been promised. But, will I live my life in such a way that causes God to give me something extra? Will He be impressed with my faith, or will he simply see someone who has saving faith, and nothing more? The Israelites had saving faith, enough to follow Moses out of Egypt. However, they did not have that extra measure of faith that would trust God through any and every adversity. Do we?

March 24

Joshua 9-11
It's difficult for our modern minds to wrap around God's command to the Israelites to practice genocide. When Joshua takes over the promised land, he and his men completely destroyed every living creature, even the women and children. This was done at the Lord's direction and with His aid. If this were done in our time, Israel would be condemned as a barbaric nation, and the rest of the world would rally against them. However, the nations at that time stood in fear, acknowledging that the Lord was with Israel, and that they could not defeat God. Prior to Joshua's decisive victories, the nations had arrogantly proclaimed that they, and their gods, were more powerful than the one, true, living God.

Even though I might not fully understand God's ordained genocide, I do understand His distaste of arrogance. Makes me wonder how long He will endure the arrogance of a world that boldly proclaims man's power over God's control of His creation. How long will He put up with mankind's flagrant disregard of the God who gives us the breath of life?

March 23

Joshua 5-8
When Achan sins and brings God's wrath upon the people, Joshua is given a difficult test of leadership. The penalty for his son's sin is death by stoning. Thus, Joshua must give the command for the death of his own son! He passes the test with flying colors, God's blessings return, and Israel is successful in defeating their enemy. Joshua proves that he is the right leader for God's people. I wonder how many of the world's leaders could pass this test? I seriously doubt that I could. Another aspect of this story demonstrates Joshua's leadership skills. When questioned, Achan offers no excuses. Even though he most assuredly knew the consequences, he openly acknowledges his sin before God, his felloe Israelites, and his father. This took a great deal of courage, and demonstrated the character that had been instilled by his father, Joshua. When we have made a mistake, and suffer the penalty, it is still possible to do so with honor.

March 22

Joshua 1-4
Today's reading brings back a pleasant memory from more than twenty years. When I preached at the Black Canyon Church of Christ our little ones, mostly comprised of our deacons children, would sing Joshua 1:9. It was simply adorable to hear them sing the verse, and then proudly proclaim the scripture reference. Milestones such as this help us to remember God's blessings. I guess you could say that's what these first four chapters are about. From Rahab encouraging the Israeli spies to not forget her, to God having the twelve tribes take up stones from the middle of the Jordan to make a memorial, God encourages us to remember the milestones of our faith. Do you have a song, ribbon, or stone that aids you in remembering what God has done, or is promising to do, in your life? If not, perhaps you need to pile up some metaphorical stones that raise questions from others, so that you might give an answer for the hope that lies within you!

March 21

Deuteronomy 32-34; Psalm 91
Today's reading could be titled, "Moses Swan Song." Song, Psalm, and something deeply spiritual, are all experienced as we witness the end of Moses life. God honors Moses in deed and dialogue. He states that no one has ever done the mighty things that Moses has accomplished. After He shows Canaan to Moses, He brings Moses life to an end, following a long, healthy sojourn, and then God buries him. This was the most intimate funeral service in history. Jehovah God reserved this burial for Himself alone! There were no invited guests, and the burial plot is God's personal cemetery. Moses is the Old Testament Christ figure, delivering God's people from bondage, in order to deliver them to the promised land. The fundamental differences are that Moses was unable to transfer his righteousness to his followers. The salvation he offered was finite. He finally succumbed to temptation and sinned against God. When he died, he stayed dead. Given these differences, Moses was still an extraordinary man, remaining faithful 'till death. We would do well to emulate his life and faith.

March 20

Deuteronomy 30-31
Moses is 120 years old! The best years of his life were the last forty. It is in those years that God used him to deliver the Israelites from bondage, establish the Law and its commandments, statutes, and regulations. It is in these twilight years of Moses life that he leads the people to the entrance of the promised land, while training his replacement. And, as he comes to the end, his primary regret is the knowledge that the Israelites will turn away from God after he is gone.

I have known many people who have made their greatest contribution to society and the church in their twilight years. Yet, as I approach that time in my life I am saddened that many in our modern, enlightened culture, dismiss the aged, viewing them as irrelevant. Instead of taking advantage of the wisdom, borne from years of experience, many mock the aged and fail to learn from these valuable repositories of knowledge. I realize that wisdom does not always come with age, but there is a greater chance with age and experience than without. To not utilize this valuable asset is both foolish and unwise.

March 19

Deuteronomy 28-29
In these two chapters God addresses the intimate relationship between Him and the Israelites. He makes it clear that because of His deep feelings toward them He reserves things just for them, things that aren't shared with any other nation. Thus, it isn't at all unreasonable that He would expect Israel to keep some things sacred only toward Him. This is what's done in an intimate relationship. By reserving the best for those involved, the relationship takes on that special quality so that outsiders might take notice and marvel at its beauty!

We see this concept mirrored as we Christians begin to take on the fruit of the Spirit. Our intimate relationship with the Lord begins to stand out to such a degree that those in the world are drawn to Jesus Christ. It's basic human nature to desire intimacy. But, divine intimacy takes on a beauty that surpasses anything else the world has to offer. When things were well between God and the Israelites, the nations took notice. The same is true in our time.

March 18

Deuteronomy 24-27
When it comes to obeying God's commands, the blessings attached to that obedience is clear, as is the punishment for disobedience. However, as we come to the end of today's reading there is a slightly different twist given. God divides the people into two groups, having them stand on two opposing hills, and shouting out the blessings of God from one side, and the curses of God from the other. Some might say I'm splitting hairs, but I sense a slight difference between punishment and curses. To be cursed by God carries the full weight of the power that is able to create the universe from nothing. This is insurmountable power! It's one thing to receive lashes for my punishment; it's quite another to face a lifetime of God's curse following me throughout all of my existence. It's more than having my sin always before me; it's facing life with God as an enemy, dogging my every step, making my life miserable. As wonderful the blessings of God, so is the horror of His curses! Or, as it is written elsewhere, "It is a terrible thing to fall into the hands of the living God!"

March 17

Deuteronomy 21-23
When I read so many laws, pertaining to so many issues, I am reminded that God is not just setting up a church, He is establishing a nation. Therefore, a law book must be given to judge the people of that nation, much like America's laws and statutes. Whenever someone does something that is detrimental to our society, there must be a law to cover that situation in order to bring justice, and restore harmony. Seen in this light, the Law becomes Israel's constitution. It was their guiding foundation, crafted to promote unity, justice, and harmony for their nation. This why God often concludes a set of rules with the caveat, "So that it may go well with you."

The Christian church is different, in that we are a society born of all nations. Our constitution is the gospel of Jesus Christ; simply put, His death, burial, and resurrection. Our unity is found in our belief that there is one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one body, one Spirit, one hope, and one God and Father of all. Ephesians 4 : 4-6. Our justice is fulfilled in Jesus Christ. And our harmony is found in our love for each other. We answer to the laws of whatever nation we abide. Thus, God did not give us a judicial system, as He did Israel.

March 16

 

Deuteronomy 17-20
God does not like sorcery and witchcraft. He makes it plain to the Israelites that if they dabble in the dark arts, it will not go well with them. The same is true today. These activities draw one away from God, and toward Satan. Yet, there are many who still play around with such. There are even those who take pride in doing so. Some of these have already been won over to the devil. However, there are many innocent souls who naively take a part, thinking it to be some sort of game, harmless entertainment. Nothing could be further from the truth. God knows the danger, and sternly warns against any involvement. Some will dismiss me as an alarmist. Others may think I need to loosen up and not take it so seriously. But, I have had firsthand experience because I witnessed my parents being sucked into that world when I was in my teens. I praise God that they were delivered before it was too late. So, heed the warning and stay away from the fortune tellers and others who dabble in the dark arts!

March 15

Deuteronomy 14-16
Along with regulations concerning the Passover and annual festivals, God expresses His concern for the poor. He states that we will always have the poor, and that we have a responsibility to take care of them. One would think that we wouldn't need an injunction from on high to take care of our fellow man. However, history has proved this to be the case. For reasons beyond my understanding, the poor are often reviled and persecuted. Is it because we fear that we could become as they? Do we somehow see the poor as being undeserving?

Whatever the case may be, it seems clear that if we Christians were truly living out the second greatest command, to love our neighbors as we do ourselves, our government would have no need for a welfare program. Instead of quarreling among ourselves over petty doctrinal opinions, our efforts would be better served by pulling together to fulfill the second greatest commandment. What is clearly impossible to accomplish from our several splintered groups, could become a reality if we would only work together, showing the true love of Christ, as we help the poor.

March 14

Deuteronomy 11-13
God understands our weaknesses better than we do. He emphasizes over and over that the Israelites are are to avoid even the appearance of following other gods. The one thing that God will absolutely not tolerate is our following or worshipping any other god. I really don't think He has ever, or will ever, feel any different about this crucial aspect of His peoples walk in the Lord. This is just as relevant for us today as it was to the ancients. We should stay as far away from any religion that doesn't have the LORD God as their god as we possibly can. There are even seemingly innocent practices that can lead us down the wrong path. For instance, Ouija boards, horoscopes, Yoga, and martial arts all have their foundations in religions that worship other gods. When we tamper with these things we are getting dangerously close to dishonoring God.

March 13

Deuteronomy 8-10
The Israelites are reminded of their past sins and God's mercy. Moses helps them to understand that whatever good they have in their lives is a gift from God; that even when they might say they have earned it through their hard work and skill, it is God who has given them the talents and abilities to make it possible for them to work and earn. He is giving them, and us, a less in humility.

It is easy, and oh so tempting, to take the credit for the many blessings we receive. I have boasted about my hard work to gain an education that made it possible for my wife and I to have more than our parents did. But, then I take a step back and give God all the credit for blessing me with a mind that is able to learn, and the resolve to put it to use. I thank God for putting the right people in my life who have influenced and encouraged me to use the opportunities before me. Without God's intervention, either directly or indirectly, I would be nothing, nor would I have gained anything. Praise be to God for the riches of His blessings in our lives!

March 12

Deuteronomy 5-7
The Israelites were encouraged to remember God's laws. He offered tecniques and strategy to help. They were to repeat them to their children at different times and places, on the road and at home. They were to write them on the walls, doorframes, clothing, and various places on their bodies. In this way, the children of Israel would be better able to remember what God felt important.

When I read this I can't help but think of my son and daughters. If you go into their house you are likely to find scripture references written on post-it notes in various locations throughout. You might find quotations written on the mirrors. Scripture is found framed and either hanging on the wall or sitting on a flat surface. It is not at all uncommon to see tidbits from God's word on clothing and hats. Symbols that point to Jesus are seen in and on various items. They even use more modern methods, taking advantage of technology, to put the Word out in front. It's very common to see them share a verse on Facebook and other internet related venues. They are simply living out what God had encouraged the Israelites to do. And, in so doing, they are blessing their children, each other, and countless others they come into contact with on a daily basis. God is blessing their lives, and I believe He will continue to honor their faithfulness to His word!

March 11

Deuteronomy 3-4
Moses is very adamant that the Israelites understand God's jealousy. They were going to be entering a land filled with nations that practiced idolatry. As they would take possession of these lands they were going to be impressed with the richness and beauty. God had already described it as a land flowing with milk and honey. Thus, they might be tempted to give credit for the lush surroundings to something or someone other than God. This makes God angry, because He alone is responsible for the benefits we receive from His creation.

In our modern times, with all of our sophisticated technological advances, the temptation is the same as it was for those ancient civilizations. In fact, I fear that much of our modern environmentalism is nothing more than a worshipping of the created, rather than the Creator. The presumption that mankind has god-like power over the earth is misplacement of faith in the One who has actual control. This is not to say that we should not take care of God's creation. However, in that care, we must acknowledge that He maintains control, and that He will do with His creation what He so desires, and that we have no power that can change what He sets in motion!

March 10

Deuteronomy 1-2
As we begin the last book of the Pentateuch, we find Moses giving a short recap of the last forty years after the deliverance from Egypt. There are a couple of points that really stick out to me. One small thing I picked up on is Moses blaming the Israelites for his not being able to enter the promised land. While it is true that had they not grumbled about their thirst there would have no occasion for him to strike the rock, that still doesn't relieve him of the responsibility of the decision. So, I guess I'm a little disappointed in Moses for shifting the blame. Yet, I'm not so that I wouldn't do the same.

The other thing that struck me is God's remembrance of Esau and Lot. Even though these two men had followed a different path, God still remembered them and blessed their descendants. There are a lot of unanswered questions in the Old Testament for me, but there is no question about God's faithfulness and love. He remains faithful, even when we aren't!

March 9

Numbers 35-36

Avenger of blood, what a term! I actually took some time to do a little research on this before making my daily entry. I knew that it was someone who carried out the execution of a murderer. I just wasn't clear on whom that someone was. It seems that the avenger is the next of kin. That's more responsibility than I would care to have. I wonder how modern day capital punishment would work if that was the manner used? I suppose that some murderers would go free, while others would not. I also wonder what it did, and would do, to, and for, the avenger of blood? Thank you, Lord, for removing the law from our lives. For, I must confess that I find parts of it to be distasteful, and a little barbaric. However, it will never be my duty or desire to question your will. Amen.

March 8

Numbers 33-34

As I read of all the journeys of the Israelites, I'm reminded of the journeys of our lives. My wife and I travel the country in a recreational vehicle. Before that, we traveled with a tent. It has been filled with adventure! We have seen and done more than most people do in a lifetime. We have truly been blessed.


But, this is not the journey I'm thinking about. The journey that I speak of is the one we must all take. Life takes us through valleys, across rivers, to the tops of mountains, and to many places we could not have imagined before we arrived. And, the most important aspect of our journey isn't our toothbrush, or our pillow, or the myriad of items we think we need, or will need. The one thing we need above all else, is a good map to keep us from getting lost. God's word is that road map, and the ones who use it will never get lost. These will find their way safely to the promised land!

March 7

Numbers 31-32

That the Gadites and Ruebenites didn't want their share of the promised land seems incredulous! It wasn't from fear of the inhabitants.  They were willing to help fight and overcome these for the rest of Israel. So, why didn't they want to move? I think that they had gotten comfortable where they were, and they didn't like change. There are those who dislike change to such a degree that they will not change, even when the change is clearly beneficial.

I have seen this in churches all my life. When church leadership has made a decision to make a change for the good of the flock, there are almost always a few who resist. Their resistance comes because they are comfortable with the status quo, it is simply the way it has always been, and they see no reason to change. Now, I sympathize with them if the change is without purpose, or is clearly against God's will. But, if it just makes them uncomfortable, they need to follow the example of the Ruebenites and Gadites; stay where you're comfortable, while continuing to fight the good fight with those who have moved on.

One of our elders recently demonstrated this principle when I shared what a yong man at our evening study had told me. The young man said that he really liked our worship services, but his wife isn't comfortable with the praise team. This elder wisely stated that they needed to go to church where they are both comfortable. That's the beauty we find in the diversity of the church.

March 6

Numbers 28-30

When I read the laws and regulations given to the Israelites, I get dizzy! The number of sacrifices, along with the frequency, is just staggering. Add to all this, the subjugation of the women, and you have a system that tests the bounds of human endurance. It makes me all the more grateful for the freedom we have in Christ Jesus.


The new covenant releases us from the tyranny of the law. Through Christ we no longer have the need for continual sacrifices. The keeping of special days and elaborate ceremonies belong to a bygone era. In the kingdom there is neither male nor female. We are all equal in God's sight. Yet, I find many who prefer law to freedom. Sad to say, but there are those who choose law-keeping to the joy of a life where we have the freedom to worship God without restrictions. God doesn't need or desire elaborate ceremony in strict adherence to a particular code, whereby the breaking of any one element renders our worship unacceptable. Thank you, Lord Jesus, for nailing the law to the tree. Thank you for becoming the only sacrifice needed. Thank you for setting us free from the bondage of sin and the exhaustion of the law. Amen!

March 5

 
Numbers 26-27
It's interesting that God controlled the population of Israel over their forty years of wandering in the desert, so that as they were to enter the promised land they were still about the same size and strength. Let it not be said that they had any advantage over the prior faithless generation. Our success doesn't depend on our own size or strength. Rather, our success depends on God's size and strength!

Did you catch the faithfulness of Moses in this reading? He is reminded that he will not enter the promised land because of sin at Meribah. Without any moaning or groaning, he sets about the business of choosing a new leader for Israel. Not only did he not question God's justice, he displays sincere concern for the people under his charge. What an example of leadership!

March 4

Numbers 23-25

When Phinehas kills Zimri and Kozbi, the Moabite, God praises him for sharing His zeal against the rampant sexual immorality the Israelite men were engaged in with Moabite woman who were leading these men into worship of false gods. A few things really stick out with this story. First, God is condoning premeditated murder. Second, Israel is once again following other gods. And, third, sexual immorality is running rampant.


The second and third help to explain the first. Along with that, we also read that God killed 24,000 Israelites for the same reason Phinehas killed. This does not give us license to run out and start killing those who are engaged in behavior that God doesn't like. Quite the contrary! Under the New Covenant we are to love the sinner while hating the sin. We will always have those who exalt something or someone above God. And, we will always have those who are engaged in sexual immorality. While we are not to condone these things, we are to demonstrate the love of Christ in convicting them of their sin, forgiving, and then helping them learn a better way.

March 3

Numbers 21-22

That God would send snakes throughout the camp terrifies me. That Balaam would talk to his donkey, without asking how the donkey was able to respond, amuses me. That God would be displeased with Balaam for going, after He told him to go, puzzles me. That the writer would reference two outside sources intrigues me. That the Israelites would finally fight, instead of faithlessly trembling in fear, gives me hope for them. There's a lot going on in these two chapters!


Providing a bronze snake for redemption provides irony. God does have a sense of humor. Balaam needed reminding that he was on God's mission. The style of writing possibly indicates a different writer than in the former books. The Israelites just might be finally getting it. There's a lot to learn from these two chapters!

March 2

 
Numbers 18-20
Moses and Aaron performed a mighty miracle, bringing forth water from a rock. The waters of Meribah would be a monument to their sin. At first glance, one might wonder, what sin? God had told them to strike the rock and it would bring forth the needed water to satisfy the thirst of the Israelites, and that is precisely what Aaron and Moses did. Well, almost precisely. Throughout the Exodus Moses had continually given God the credit for all of the miracles bringing redemption to God's people. However, for reasons left unrevealed, Moses and Aaron decided to take the credit for this one life-saving miracle. Thus, taking God's glory for themselves. For this error in judgement, they were denied entrance into the promised land.

Do we ever take credit for what God has done? I fear the answer is in the affirmative. If not for ourselves, then for others. My good friend, Ben, has often said that he doesn't believe in the god of coincidence. When God intervenes in our lives, and we give the credit to coincidence, or our own effort, aren't we taking away God's glory? While it may be true that we, or external circumstance, may have had a part in the accomplishment, it is still God who deserves the glory!

March 1

 
Numbers 16-17
Kohath and his followers represent a common misgiving -- envy. They thought it to be unfair that Aaron was high priest while they weren't; they envied Aaron's position. To make matters worse, they grumbled against the Lord. They paid the ultimate price for their sin. We read that God had the earth swallow their entire klan!

Much of the modern talk about equality is nothing more than envy. There are those who believe they should reap the same benefits as the wealthy without having to earn them. Class warfare is promoted under the guise of equality. This distortion of civil liberties is destructive. Even though God doesn't deal with sin in the same manner as He did then, the natural consequences will still be felt and many will suffer because of class envy.