God gave His people the Nazirite vow as an opportunity for an individual Israelite to set himself apart for a particular task for the LORD for a limited period of time. Open to both men and women, the Nazirite was to remain separate from three particular things. First, Nazirites were not to partake of alcoholic drinks or anything made from grapes. Second, Nazirites were not to go near dead bodies. Third, Nazirites were not to cut their hair during the time of their vow. The completion of the Nazirite vow was a time of great joy. The LORD’s joy was not limited to such special occasions, however. The LORD gave joy to all His people every time the priests blessed them and placed His name upon them.

Rev. Lucas Witt, assistant director of the Lutheran Mission Society of Maryland, headquartered in Baltimore, MD, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Nehemiah 13:1-30.

"Wilderness Wanderings” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Numbers. After the LORD delivers His people from slavery in Egypt, He leads them toward the Promised Land. Although the first generation of Israelites proves faithless, the LORD remains faithful to His people and brings a new generation of Israelites to the plains of Moab. This strengthens us to listen to God’s promises today and stay faithful to Him as He guides us toward resurrection life.