Arise and Abide

Reading Numbers 33:50-56 (NLT) ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. The preparation on the East side of the Jordan River before crossing over. Idol worship was an area of weakness and temptation for Israel, and God knew. Pain being a distraction that keeps you from being productive. Not to invite temptation into your life. God’s plan was to drive out the people from the land and would drive out the Israelites if they followed in the pagan worship. 2 Corinthians 12:1-10, even when you remove all temptation you cannot keep temptation from coming back at you, we have to surrender, God’s grace is sufficient for all of us.

Reading Numbers 32:1-33 (NLT) ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. On the cusp of entering the promised land two tribes want the land there are already in. The statement “the LORD has conquered the whole area” shows their understanding of the LORD being responsible for the Midianites being driven out on behalf of Israel. Moses responds out of pervious experiences, a little bit fearful, and gives a warning and rebuke. The goodness in being reminded of all God has done for us as it draws us back to the LORD. What compels you to go? The importance of unity and carrying through. Feeling content in what you have is good, but God may be leading you to something greater.

Reading Numbers 31:1-24 (NLT) ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. The LORD’s portion, 1 of every 500 from the fighting men’s portion (.2%) and the people’s portions owed 1 out of every 50  (2%). The LORD’s portion is minuscule compared to what was added to Israel, the portion God wanted was living creatures, the General’s offered the gold objects. Not losing a single fighting man in battle showed God’s faithfulness, protection and strong hand against God’s enemies. The gold being a reminder that Israel is God’s people. The miraculous victory stirring the hearts of the Generals and Commanders the give.

Reading Numbers 31:1-24 (NLT) ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. Chapter 31 picks up after chapter 25. Chapter 26 the registration of the tribes, showing the generation of rebels had died off. The new generation ready to take the land but first are called to take the LORD’s revenge against the Midianites. Romans 12:19 referencing Deut. 32:35, vengeance is mine, says the LORD. The Israelites thought they were doing the right thing by sparing all the women and children and brought home those who lead Israel astray.  Balaam not learning from his experience, or the words of prophecy God gave him.  Deut. 7:5 the privilege of Holiness, the chosen special treasure of God.

Reading Numbers30:1-16 (NLT) ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. Matthew 5:33-37, listen to what Jesus is saying while looking at the Old Testament. Letting our yes be yes vs trying to throw more weight behind our words to convince people. People need to receive truth, the Holy Spirit is there to bring revelation to others when we share the truth of the Gospel. Numbers 23:18&19, God’s is not us, His character consistent. Forgiveness being needed for relationships to move forward when words and actions do not line up.

Reading Psalms 54:1-7 (NLT) ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. 1 Samuel 23:19, the time the Ziphites told Saul where David was hiding. David calling on God’s great power. We don’t often have people who want to hunt us down and kill us. Putting yourself “out there” can be overwhelming but our God is the same God who rescued David. You have nothing to be afraid of, you can praise God in confidence because you are standing in the truth of God’s word and promises. Praising God is way to fight our enemy. Calling on God to bring the peace that only He can bring.

Reading Numbers 29:7-40 (NLT) ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. The ten days of preparation and introspection before the Day of Atonement. The LORD making Adam and Eve clothing from animal skin after the fall. Atonement covers our sin. Hebrews 10:11-14, Jesus’ sacrifice was once for all time, nullifying the need for sacrifices that could never take away sin. For those who are being made holy. The festival of shelters reminding of the time wandering and that we are temporary residents in this world.

Reading Numbers 28:16-29:6 (NLT) ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. The common theme of a Holy Assembly, no ordinary work, extra offerings were all in addition to the regular offerings, the pleases God. Putting more time and attention to the one you love in the special times of your relationship and life. The time to celebrate and to remember. Sacrificing a lamb highlights our need to be made right, as reminder of our sinfulness and how good God is. Having a distorted view of God because of experiences or observations on the way the world is, yet the Heart of God of relationship with people is clear throughout scripture.

Reading Numbers 28:1-15 (NLT) ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. The food offering and the preparation of meals. Jesus wanting to share a meal. Starting and ending the day with this special time with the LORD. Exodus 34:14, God is jealous about His relationship with you, God is all in.  The most valuable thing we can give is our time. The consistent rhythm, twice daily, weekly, and monthly. A time of remembering, a time of rest, and giving offerings. 1 Peter 2:5, being built into a holy temple and priests offering spiritual sacrifices and praising the LORD out loud, bringing the attention of others back to God.

Reading Numbers 27:12-23 (NLT) ~ Scripture reading followed by discussion. The LORD giving Moses instructions about his death and Moses’ response is one of trust and surrender. Moses seeing the finish line. Moses failing to demonstrate God’s holiness, as we all do. Thank God for making the way of forgiveness. The opportunities to show God’s holiness in moments of frustration. Our propensity to sin keeps us returning to being sheep without a shepherd. John 10:11&14, Jesus is the one, true, Good Shepherd. 1 Peter1:14-16, Holy Living, living a life dedicated to God’s ways, loving God, and loving people.