Devotion back log

March 8, 2011
Changing relationships
When Moses commissioned Joshua he directed him to go to Eleazar the priest and consult the urim when direction from the Lord was needed (Num 27:21). It strikes me that this is a degradation in the relationship that Moses enjoyed with God. Moses spoke with God face to face as a man speaks to his friend (Ex 33:11). It seems like God is withdrawing a little. Flash forward to today. When we need direction from God we rely on the Bible, counsel, circumstances, and a sense of calling. Very few (if any) have experienced a direct relationship with God. God is more hidden and we are required to seek Him out (Jer 29:13, Luke 11:9).
March 9, 2011
Sex and religion
In Numbers 31 we discover that Balaam was giving evil counsel even while God was using him (in spite of himself) to bless Israel. He advised the Midianites to lure the Israelites into idolatry with sex. The plan worked and the Israelites were led astray at Mount Peor (Num 31:16). He paid for this sin with his life (Num 31:8). I wonder how much Balaam was paid for his services as a consultant to Balak. However we look externally, we must monitor our motives lest we fall into the error of Balaam (Rev 2:14).

Righteous Anger

Many of us struggle with anger. The problem is we only get mad about the things that affect our own comfort, status or welfare. Phinehas, the priest, was zealous about the things that evoke God’s zeal (Num 25:11). I don’t advocate spearing fornicators, but things were a lot rougher in Phinehas’ day. The point is that it is okay to be angry. It’s not okay to be apathetic. Paul tells us to “be angry and do not sin.” (Eph 4:26) Are you angry about starving children in developing nations? Do you get mad about greedy corporations polluting our environment? Are you zealous to leave a solvent America to your children? A little righteous anger may lead to some redemptive action.

Bizarre Balaam

In Numbers 22-24 we have the strange case of Balaam. God tells him not to go to Balak. He asks again. God says to go. Then God blocks his way and through a talking donkey lets him know how stubborn he is. Finally, God tells him to go ahead and go to Balak. What is the point of these mixed signals? God is going to accomplish his will. He will use you to do it in spite of yourself (like the donkey, like Balaam). Your will and nature notwithstanding, God’s will prevails. The trick is to align your will with His; to be properly motivated. How do I change my heart? Only God can change a heart through prayer, Scripture and the Holy Spirit. God, make me willing to do your will. Change my stubborn heart.

Devotion back log

March 4, 2011

The Intercessor

The people would have been wiped out by the wrath of God on many occasions had it not been for Moses interceding (Num 16:21-22, 43-44). The Israelites could not get over their murmuring and grumbling. How many times would I have been wiped out if it were not for the intercession of Jesus? Thank God that Jesus is able to save me forever because He always lives to make intercession for me (Heb 7:25).

March 5, 2011

The need for need

Water was a constant problem as the Israelites wandered. Moses and Aaron got in trouble over the water issue (Num 20:10-13). As they travelled the dry and weary land they found that they were totally dependent on God for this most basic need (Num 21:16). I think that was God’s intent. When all our needs are met we grow complacent. I think God never wants to lose the hard edge of thirst for Him. This explains why He is ever present, but seemingly absent. He wants us to keep seeking Him (2Ch 7:14, Mat 6:33). The good news is that when we find Jesus He gives us living waters (the Holy Spirit) that spring up within our souls (Joh 7:38-39). For now, we become parched from time to time, but we have his promise that we will never lack His Spirit to continually satisfy our thirst for Him (Joh 4:10).

Point of no return

On the cusp of entering the Promised Land, Israel lost faith. The decided to go back to Egypt (Num 14:4). However, that was no longer an option. The Egyptians would not have taken them back. More important, God had a stake in this situation. His reputation was on the line. Failure was not an option. (Num 14:15-16). Sometimes we experience periods of doubt when we just want to quit. When most of the crowd quit on Jesus, he asked his disciples, “You don’t want to leave too, do you?” Peter replied, “Lord, to whom shall we go?” (John 6:66-68). They had passed the point of no return. If you do decide to quit you will find that you can’t go back and you can no longer go forward. Only one option remains; to wander and die in the wilderness, sustained but not satisfied (Num 14:32). Interestingly, when confronted with this option, Israel found enough motivation in their rebellion to attempt to enter the Promised Land. They failed. (Num 14:44-45) Don’t miss the irony. What they would not do in faith, they attempted in defiance of God! Lord, save me from myself! Help me to keep moving forward. Who else do I have but you? (Psa 73:5)

Graves of Gluttony

The people were discontent with their situation but they had no appetite for blessing (Num 11:4-6). They complained about where they were but feared where God was leading them (Num 13:31). They paid dearly for their lack of faith. Many died of plague immediately (Num 11:33-34) and eventually all but two fell in the wilderness. Could it be that less is more and that the road to blessing is not always the path of ease? Am I moving forward by faith or digging a grave of gluttony?

Piggy backing on the promises

Moses offered his brother in law, Hobab the Midianite, a share in the Promised Land (Num 10:29-31). Foreigners among Israel enjoyed the blessings and favor of God (Ex 23:9). Later, we see Ruth the Moabitess (the Gentile bride, symbolic of the Church) join herself to Israel and reap God’s blessings. In the last days ten men from the nations will grab the garment of a Jew and plead to go with him “for the Lord is with them”(Zech 8:23). Gentiles, realize that your salvation comes from Zion (Psa 14:7, Joh 4:22). We would do well to bless, respect and learn from Israel that we too might enjoy God’s favor. (Rom 11:17-24)