Resources to Help You Grow

Overview

Once David has consolidated his nation politically and religiously, he turns to the task of being God's man of war. By subduing the neighboring nations, David extends Israel's borders: Philistia to the southwest; Amalek to the south; Edom, Moab, and Ammon to the east; Syria to the northeast; Zobah to the north. Each succumbs to David's withering assault. But though he is a man of war, David maintains a tender heart. He seeks out and befriends the sole surviving heir of Saul's dynasty, a lame grandson named Mephibosheth, by making him part of the king's family.

Your Daily Walk

Insurance companies today have a name for those who apply for insurance while suffering from heart disease or who have a family history of premature death. Such individuals are "bad risks."

When a new king came to the throne in the ancient Near East, you might say the remaining family members of the preceding dynasty were bad risks. According to the custom of the day, they had two chances for survival: slim and none. The usual practice was for the new king to pursue and slaughter any possible claimants to the throne. That's why David's gesture of mercy and clemency to Mephibosheth was so amazing.

God's grace to us, which is illustrated by this story, is even greater. "God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8). If you have not received God's grace, do so right now (see Ephesians 2:8-9). If you have, thank God anew for it. Then look for a Mephibosheth in your life who needs to learn about God's love and forgiveness.

Insight - Just Call Me "Mephibosheth"

A helpless cripple, heir of King Saul, and a self-proclaimed "dead dog," Mephibosheth was nonetheless welcomed with open arms into David's own royal family. What a beautiful illustration of God's grace to us crippled as sinners, yet lifted from our shame and given an inheritance by the King Himself.

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March 27

2 Samuel 11-14

Overview

A person's life can pivot on one small event. Such is the case with David. Idling around the palace when he should have been leading his troops on the battlefield, David sets himself up for disaster. A chance look leads to lust, which gives birth to sin, which in turn results in death. But even in his darkest moment, the "man after [God's] own heart" (Acts 13:22) shows his true character. When confronted by Nathan the prophet about his sin, David responds with wholehearted repentance. Though he experiences God's forgiveness, the seeds of sin have been planted. All too soon, David will reap the harvest of that sin.

Your Daily Walk

The crash of the giant redwood could be heard for miles. But the question on everyone's mind lingered long after the sound had died away. There was no chainsaw, no forest fire, no dynamite. How had such a mammoth tree come toppling down?

Silently, secretly, thousands of tiny beetles ate away at the very heart of the tree. The signs of decay went unnoticed until the crash, and then it was too late.

David's sin with Bathsheba was no sudden collapse of his moral values, but rather the outgrowth of an undisciplined life given to passion, polygamy, and idle pleasure. When the temptation came, David had no willpower to resist. He saw, he inquired, he yielded. And the crash could be heard for generations to come in the form of treachery, immorality, jealousy, and murder.

Where are subtle sins eating away at your spiritual vitality? If it is true that disaster in the Christian life more often results from a slow leak than a blowout, take time today to examine your life for any "slow leaks." You can't afford to ignore them.

Insight - Solomon, the Peace Child (12:24)

As part of the judgment upon David's sin, the child born of adultery died in infancy. But later God gave to David and Bathsheba another son, whom they appropriately named Solomon-"peace." Despite his past failure, David was now at peace with his God.

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March 28-29

 

2 Samuel 15-18

 

Absalom's Attempt to Overthrow David

Key Passage:
2 Samuel 15, 18

 

 

Overview

Incest, murder, intrigue, rebellion-the story of David's family from chapter 12 on reads like a horror story. But the worst is yet to come. Absalom, David's favorite (and most undisciplined) son, seizes the opportunity to usurp his father's throne. After sowing discontent among the people, Absalom launches a dramatic, unexpected invasion of Jerusalem, forcing David to flee for his life. In his flight, David is deceived by Ziba, maligned by Shimei, and befriended by Barzillai. But he owes his life largely to Hushai, who remains behind in Jerusalem and counsels Absalom to mount a careful (and delayed) attack, rather than to pursue immediately. When the battle is joined in the forest of Ephraim, Absalom's dreams of power come to a "hair-raising" conclusion.

Your Daily Walk

What do Monday morning quarterbacks and many politicians' speeches have in common? They are always right because they are always based on 20/20 hindsight.

Absalom would have made a good Monday morning quarterback. Certainly, he was an outstanding politician, for he won the hearts of the people by second-guessing the decisions of the king and promising the people what they wanted, though he had no authority to grant it.

When a bad decision has been made, do not hesitate to give open, honest criticism to the person who's responsible. Wrong decisions cannot be ignored. But watch the human tendency to become an armchair general.

All statements beginning, "If I had been there..." are dangerous. Pick a church or civic leader and focus your efforts this week on positive support, rather than negative second-guessing.

Insight - Hair Today, a "Goner" Tomorrow

Absalom's luxuriant head of hair was the crowning glory of a vain egomaniac. How ironic that it became the instrument of his death, suspending him from the low-hanging branches of a tree.

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March 30

 

2 Samuel 19-20

 

David's Restoration to the Throne

Key Passage:
2 Samuel 19

 

 

Overview

David's unceasing grief for Absalom (at the expense of those who risked their lives for the king) prompts an abrupt but effective confrontation with General Joab. A king's personal feelings must give way to the good of the nation. So, accompanied by his faithful followers, David begins his triumphal return to Jerusalem. His reestablishment as king in Israel marks the return of discontent to the nation. Jealousy between the tribes, an attempted coup by Sheba, murder in the palace guard- the violence is a continual reminder that "uneasy lies the head that wears the crown."

Your Daily Walk

Think back over the chapters you have read in 2 Samuel, and make a list of your impressions of Joab, David's general.

Every leader needs a man like Joab. For all his bad points (and there were plenty-he was brutal, bloodthirsty, vengeful), Joab had a side that was commendable. His devotion to David and to the nation was exemplary. He was a man who saw what had to be done and did it, regardless of how unpopular the action or how unwanted the rebuke. Though David often questioned Joab's actions, he never questioned Joab's motives and rightly so.

Do you have the fortitude to do the unpopular thing when it is right and needs to be done? Do you have the courage to speak up when a voice needs to be heard? No one enjoys such roles, but they are a vital part of godly exhortation. Select an admirable trait from Joab's life (such as commitment, fortitude, or selflessness) and use it as a pattern for your activities today. God will give you the strength and wisdom to be a Joab when the job calls for one.

Insight - David's Shrouded Grief

After learning of Absalom's death, David "covered his face" (19:4), the customary way of expressing grief. The covered head symbolized the agony that shut David off from the world and also pictured the shroud of Absalom's burial.

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March 31

 

2 Samuel 21-24

 

David's Final Words and Works

Key Passage:
2 Samuel 23-24

 

 

Overview

Years of ruling the nation (and getting into and out of trouble) have taken their toll on David, leaving him faint in battle and feeble in old age. But though David can no longer pursue the enemy, problems continue to pursue him to the end of his reign. A broken treaty with the Gibeonites results in three years of famine; a sinful census leads to the deaths of 70,000 Israelites. But in each case, David repents of his sinful ways and assumes the familiar posture of a worshiper of God, the hallmark of his life. To the end of his days, David remains a man after God's own heart.

Your Daily Walk

When called upon to support the work of God with your money, do you "give till it hurts" or "hurt when you give"?

David provides a valuable model for giving. When God punished the Israelites for David's proud census, the prophet Gad told David to build an altar on Araunah's threshing floor. It would have been an easy matter for David to confiscate Araunah's property, or at least to accept Araunah's offer of free animals and wood for the sacrifice. But David refused, knowing that such an offering would not be pleasing to God. "I insist on paying you for it. I will not sacrifice to the LORD my God burnt offerings that cost me nothing" (24:24).

Examine your own offerings to the Lord your God. Do you tend to give superficially or sacrificially? Are your gifts the overflow of a grateful heart? As you look forward to your next paycheck, think about increasing the amount you give to your church or a Christian organization you support. And remember, "God loves a cheerful giver" (2 Corinthians 9:7).

Insight - A Mighty Man in a Curious Place

In David's list of 37 mighty warriors (23:8-39) is one curious inclusion: Uriah the Hittite! Though David masterminded his death, he never forgot Uriah's exemplary conduct.

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Overview

The life of Samson is a study in unfulfilled potential. The only child of an elderly couple, designated by God a Nazirite from birth, blessed with superhuman strength, and commissioned to "begin the deliverance of Israel from the hands of the Philistines" (13:5), Samson instead spends most of his life fulfilling his own passions and desires. His lack of self-control eventually results in blindness and bondage. But God gives him one last portion of power, and in his death, Samson destroys more Philistines than during his entire life of compromise.

Your Daily Walk

Here are some of the wisest words ever penned by Benjamin Franklin: "Doing an injury puts you below your enemy; avenging one makes you but even with him; forgiving one sets you above him."

Revenge is one of the most natural—and destructive of all human responses. Rather than trying to right a wrong by forgiving it, the most common reaction is to try to right a wrong by committing another wrong—namely, lashing out at the other person. Such was the problem with Samson. He spent much of his time burning with anger (14:19) and doing harm to those who had wronged him (15:3). But his temper only complicated the problem, never corrected it.

What is your response when someone has wronged you? Do you count to 10 before "blasting off"? Or do you "go into orbit" immediately? To help you cultivate a proper response to others, put this verse to work today: "A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger" (Proverbs 15:1). You'll find it hard to express anger—or harbor it—when you whisper.

Insight - Nazirite or Nazarene—What's the Difference?

Many confuse the two terms Nazirite and Nazarene. Jesus, a Nazarene, was so called because He lived in Nazareth. Samson, a Nazirite, was so called because he did not drink wine, touch dead bodies, or cut his hair—all prohibitions of a Nazirite vow. (For added details concerning this vow, see Numbers 6:1-21.)

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March 12

Judges 17-21

Overview

The closing chapters of Judges provide graphic snapshots of the spiritual and moral degeneration of a nation in which "everyone did as he saw fit" (17:6; 21:25). Chronologically these events belong with chapter 3, but thematically they form a fitting conclusion to the book. The spiritual decline is illustrated by Micah, who carves his own idol, consecrates his own son as priest, and hires a traveling Levite to minister on his behalf. The tribe of Dan confiscates both the idol and the priest to serve their own interests instead. The story of the Levite and his concubine is a grisly flashback to the days of Sodom and Gomorrah. In the ensuing civil war, the tribe of Benjamin is decimated, and efforts to repopulate it result in little more than anarchy.

Your Daily Walk

Is it possible one of the reasons the forces of evil and wickedness are so successful is that the children of God are simply naive?

When you read chapters in the Bible like Judges 17-21, your immediate reaction may be, "It can't happen here." No one wants to believe the veneer of civilization is really that thin and fragile. But until you recognize the problem, there is little hope of finding a solution.

Check up on your own I.Q. (Information Quotient). Do you know what the crime rate is in your area? What percent of your community is unchurched? How many unwanted babies were aborted last year? How many incidents of divorce, child abuse, and substance abuse were recorded? Knowing some of those statistics can help you pray more intelligently.

Insight - My, How Times Have Changed!

The Book of Joshua records the history of the nation of Israel in days of victory with faith in God, spiritual vision, strength, and unity. But as you read in Judges of Israel's defeats, apostasy, worldliness, weakness, and anarchy, you may have thought you were reading about an entirely different nation.

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March 13

 

Ruth 1-4

 

Ruth: Interlude of Love

Key Passage:
Ruth 1, 4

 

 

Overview

The Book of Ruth provides a beautiful interlude of love in the period of the judges in Israel—an era marked by immorality, idolatry, and war. This heartwarming account of devotion and faithfulness tells the story of Ruth, a Moabite widow who leaves her homeland to live with her widowed, Israelite mother-in-law in Bethlehem. God honors her commitment by guiding her to the field of Boaz (a near kinsman), where she gathers grain and eventually finds a husband. The book closes with a brief genealogy in which Boaz's name is prominent as the great-grandfather of King David, and an ancestor of Jesus.

Your Daily Walk

Love is more readily demonstrated than described. Ruth demonstrated the true character of love when she willingly and steadfastly pledged her allegiance and devotion to her mother-in-law Naomi. Clearly, by traveling to a foreign country she had more to lose than gain. She was still young and easily could have remarried someone of her own nationality. But her primary concern was not for her own well-being, but rather for the well-being of Naomi. Ruth exemplifies sacrificial love the kind that Jesus portrayed when He gave His "life for the sheep" (John 10:11).

How can you give of yourself sacrificially to someone around you your spouse, roommate, employer, neighbor, or friend? Jot down a name in the margin, a specific act of selfless love you can do for that person, and the date when you will do it. Don't let your love be "Ruthless," or it will soon become useless (1 Corinthians 13:1-3).

Insight - Ruth and Esther—Alike and Yet So Different

Ruth and Esther are the only two books in the Bible named after women. Ruth, a Gentile, lived among Hebrews and married a Hebrew. Esther, a Hebrew, lived among Gentiles and married a Gentile. Both women were greatly used by God to bring glory to Himself.

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1 Samuel

 

By the end of the chaotic period of the judges, God’s people are clamoring for a king. The Book of 1 Samuel tells the story of Israel’s last judge (Samuel), its first king (Saul), and the early years of its greatest king (David). Because Saul lacks a heart for God, he is rejected by God. Young David—anointed to take his place—must flee to the wilderness to escape Saul’s jealous pursuit. At last, Saul and his sons meet death on Mount Gilboa, setting the stage for 2 Samuel and the golden age of King David.

 

 

 

March 14/15

 

1 Samuel 1-3

 

Samuel's Birth and Call

Key Passage:
1 Samuel 1:1-20; 3:1-21

 

 

 

Overview

Like a ray of sunshine in the gloomy period of the judges stands the godly family of Elkanah and his barren wife, Hannah. God hears Hannah's fervent prayer for a son, who would be dedicated to the service of God, and graciously provides Samuel (along with three more sons and daughters). In fulfillment of her vow, Hannah brings Samuel to Shiloh, where he begins his life of godly service under the tutelage of Eli the priest. But when Eli fails to discipline his own sons, bringing reproach upon both God and the tabernacle, Samuel is commissioned by God to declare judgment upon Eli's house.

Your Daily Walk

Analyze the following statement: Being a good businessperson does not guarantee that you will be a good parent. Now, substitute for the word "businessperson" each of the following groups of words, and then reread the statement thoughtfully: Bible study leader, Sunday school teacher, volunteer worker, civic leader, student, church leader.

In today's passage, you were confronted by a sobering scene. Eli, a man who knew his job well as a priest and functioned adequately in his service before the Lord, was nevertheless a failure in his role as a father. Success in one sphere did not guarantee success in the other. And because of his failure as a father, he lost his influence in the spiritual realm as well.

Parents, take an objective look at how well you're doing in raising your children to glorify God. Are there some pressing areas of need? Your church library or local Christian bookstore offers a gold mine of resources to help you teach God's truths creatively and practically to your children. But only you can make parenting the priority it needs to be.

Insight - Samuel, the Tabernacle Toddler

In the ancient Near East, it was common to nurse children until the age of four or five. Thus, since Samuel was brought to the tabernacle after he was weaned (1:22), he was already old enough to learn much from Eli about the Law and priestly duties.

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Overview

The concluding portion of Moses’ second sermon contains a variety of wise guidelines for life in the promised land. Moses anticipates (and resolves) situations that could arise to disrupt the smooth functioning of Israel’s society. In areas as diverse as marriage, capital punishment, purity, and tithing, Moses provides God’s view of what should and should not be done.

Your Daily Walk

Can you identify with this humorous sign? Then you might get a chuckle out of this tidbit: A man whose life was notoriously cluttered and confused asked that this epitaph be etched on his tombstone: “Organized at last!”

If you are one of those impeccably organized people who plans everything well ahead of time, then you may skip today’s devotional reading. But if you’re like the majority of the human race, you may find Moses’ example in today’s reading very helpful. He greatly served Israel by giving the people clear directions in anticipation of a number of difficult situations. What can you learn from him?

Take the matter of potentially sinful situations. You have a child causing you disciplinary problems. You have a boss or fellow employee who irritates you. Why not plan right now the biblical, God-honoring response you will make the next time that situation arises? Make three columns on a sheet of paper and write down (1) the anticipated situation; (2) your natural response; and (3) your prayerful, planned response. Keep that sheet handy and with God’s help, plan ahead to glorify Him in the midst of a difficult situation.

Insight - The Motive Behind the Monarch (17:14-15)

Although Israel’s request for a king would seem harmless enough, 1 Samuel 8:4-9 reveals that this desire for a human monarch was indicative of Israel’s refusal to retain God as her true King.

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Overview

Moses’ long and illustrious life is drawing to a close. During his final days as Israel’s leader, he delivers some significant words of counsel to the priests, the Levites, his successor Joshua, and the entire nation. He has learned much during his 120-year walk with God, and his final words of warning and encouragement deserve careful attention. To make his last utterances easily remembered, Moses writes them down in the form of a song. After blessing each of the 12 tribes, Moses climbs Mount Nebo for a final look at the promised land, and there he dies a strong and vigorous man.

Your Daily Walk

Do you have trouble identifying with a great Old Testament saint such as Moses? Moses was a unique historical figure. He stood in the very presence of God, performed miracles before Pharaoh, parted the Red Sea, turned rocks into drinking fountains, and died at the age of 120, still full of youthful vigor.

The Bible paints Moses in very human shades, though. He spent the first two-thirds of his life wrestling with his calling before he finally yielded to God’s will. Being a man of action, he found it frustrating to administer the affairs of a large, rebellious group of people. In a moment of impatience and anger, he struck a rock instead of speaking to it, thus denying himself the opportunity to set foot in the promised land. Yet, God’s commentary on Moses is this: “No prophet has arisen…like Moses, whom the Lord knew face to face” (34:10).

Let the words of Deuteronomy 29:29 provide a fresh motivation for you to know and do God’s will next month as you follow in the footsteps of Moses.

Insight - The Promised Land at Last

Moses, deliverer of his people, never set foot in the promised land. Or did he? Though he climbs Mount Nebo for one last faraway look at Canaan before his death, he is seen inside the promised land years later on the Mount of Transfiguration, along with Jesus and Elijah (Matthew 17:3; Luke 9:30-31).

Overview

With the laws given and the ceremonies specified, God now commands Moses to count the people and position them in a square formation around the tabernacle. The number of fighting men (603,550) suggests a total population of more than three million men, women, and children. The Levites are then positioned and numbered, and each priestly group is assigned a work detail related to the care and transport of the tabernacle.

Your Daily Walk

What is it that we all have the same amount of, but no one ever seems to have enough of? (Hint: The answer is not IQ, money, or credit card accounts.)

You probably guessed it. The one commodity shared equally by all members of the human race is time. Whether you are a peasant or a president, God’s gracious gift of time comes to you in bite-sized, 24-hour chunks—no more, no less. Perhaps you have been frustrated in your attempt to manage your time and accomplish everything you set out to do each day. If so, consider this: You have all the time you need to accomplish everything God intends for you to accomplish today. That means if you are too busy to do the things you know God wants you to do, then you are busier than God intends for you to be.

Analyze your time priorities. Across a sheet of paper, draw seven columns for Sunday through Saturday, and divide each day according to the way you normally spend it. Is there adequate time for sleep? Bible study? prayer? recreation? family activities? If not, what would need to change for God to be honored in your use of time?

Insight - The World’s Largest Campground

\If the population estimate of three million is accurate, and a minimum living space is allowed for each Israelite’s family and flocks, the camp of Israel must have been enormous—covering more than 100 square miles (about twice the size of San Francisco). Yet through a detailed, God-given plan for pitching, striking, and moving camp, Moses maintained order in the nation.

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February 11

Numbers 5–8

Overview

With the Israelites numbered and positioned, God further prepares the nation for entering the promised land by giving Moses instructions for cleansing and worship. First, Israel must be free of defilement from immorality and suspicions. The people must sense the sanctity of binding commitments such as the Nazirite vow. They must provide for the material needs of the tabernacle. And they must have a purified group of Levites to minister effectively for them in the corporate worship and celebration of the nation.

Your Daily Walk

A jealous husband. A suspicious wife. The combination can eat like acid into the marriage relationship. For this reason, God provided the seemingly strange ritual of Numbers 5:11-31 in order to deal decisively with jealousy and suspicion in the home. The ordeal by “bitter water” was designed to dramatize the bitterness and heartache caused by festering jealousy.

Today, the problem of jealousy remains just as widespread and malignant. But God’s prescribed cure has changed somewhat. According to James 4:7-10, it involves three parts: (1) submission to God; (2) confession to one another; (3) restoration in forgiving love. As with Numbers 5, the process is painful, but necessary.

Examine your heart right now. Are you harboring suspicion or jealousy toward a spouse, Christian friend, or family member? The place to begin is by talking to God. Confess your wrong attitude and appropriate His forgiveness. Then confront the other party in love. It won’t be pleasant, but when the alternative is simmering bitterness and broken fellowship, wouldn’t you agree that God’s way is best?

Insight - No Wine, Corpses, or Haircuts Allowed

The requirements of the Nazirite vow might seem strange unless understood in their symbolic sense. Wine symbolized comfort and enjoyment. Death and corpses represented defilement. Long hair stood for God-given strength and dignity. By avoiding the former two and maintaining the latter, a Nazirite declared his or her total devotion to God.

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February 12

 

Numbers 9-12

 

Criticizing and Complaining

Key Passage:
Numbers 9–10

 

 

Overview

Finally, the day has arrived for the nation to pull up stakes and set out for Canaan. As silver trumpets herald the journey’s commencement, the huge camp prepares to march. The long-awaited move has begun. But all too soon, gratitude turns to grouchiness: The people complain about their daily diet of manna and express jealousy over Moses’ leadership. In the midst of miraculous provision, there is persistent complaining, until at last the weary Israelites arrive at Kadesh-barnea, on the very border of Canaan.

Your Daily Walk

How many things can you think of that were truly “good” about the “good old days”?

When you experience adversity—even though you’re obeying God—you may catch yourself looking back on the “good old days” with a twinge of nostalgia. Memory is selective. Current difficulty often seems to bring to mind only the best of yesterday.

The Israelites had hardly broken camp when they began to complain about God’s daily provision of manna. To hear them tell it, you’d think they had left paradise in Egypt (11:5). But their foresight was even worse than their hindsight, for they forgot God’s promise of future blessing. God never intended for His children to spend the rest of their lives in the desert, eating manna.

Have difficult times caused you to look longingly at the way life used to be? To help you keep your eyes focused on God’s purpose for you, write these verses on an index card and carry it today:

“One thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus” (Philippians 3:13-14). Keep looking up, and you’ll never want to look back.

Insight - Ark in the Middle, Ark in the Front

Compare Numbers 2 and 10, and note that the ark enjoyed a position of prominence both in the camp and on the march. Can you suggest a reason for each position?

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February 13

 

Numbers 13–16

 

Death in the Wilderness

Key Passage:
Numbers 13

 

 

Overview

At the Lord’s command, Moses selects one man from each tribe to form a spying party to survey the land of Canaan. They return 40 days later, all having seen the same thing but divided in their opinions as to what it meant. The majority opinion: “The people are stronger than we are.” The minority opinion: “We shall surely overcome.” Disheartened and faithless, the people threaten to stone Moses and return to Egypt rather than face what seems to them a certain massacre. God’s punishment for their unbelief is severe: one year of wilderness wandering for each day the spies were in the land—and death in the wilderness for that entire generation. Yet, God’s plans will not be ultimately thwarted, as seen in the laws that He gives them to practice in the land.

Your Daily Walk

Two bricklayers were asked what they were doing. The first replied, “I’m laying brick”; the second, “I’m building a great cathedral.” Same task, same bricks, two different perspectives.

On the verge of entering the promised land, the Israelites evaluated the spies’ report. The land flows with milk and honey, but it also overflows with fortified cities and giants. Obviously, there could be only one response—“Let’s go!” The question was, in which direction? Joshua and Caleb responded with faith: “Let’s go forward!” The other 10 spies responded with feelings: “Let’s go back to Egypt!” The majority opinion prevailed, and Israel traced circles in the desert for 40 years.

Where is God stretching your faith today? Spy out your situation and make a list of what you see. Then ask yourself two questions: “How could I respond to this without faith? How should I respond to this in faith?” Then do the thing that will please God.

Insight - “Hey, Moses, You Remind Me of Someone…”

He was a humble man. His own people wanted to stone him, but in turn, he asked God to spare their lives. He was innocent, but he had to share the same punishment as his followers. He eventually delivered them into a new life in the promised land. Does Moses remind you of Someone else you know?

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February 14/15

 

Numbers 17–20

 

 

Aaron and Levites in the Wilderness

Key Passage:
Numbers 18, 20

 

 

Overview

As the grumbling generation marches through the wilderness outside the promised land, their discontent focuses on Moses and Aaron. Only a miraculous budding of Aaron’s rod can convince the people that Aaron represents God’s authority. In this context of rebellion, God again emphasizes the Levites’ role in the service of the tabernacle and provides the red cow as a means of cleansing the people from the ever-present defilement of death. Eventually, Moses is affected by the nation’s complaining attitude as well. In a moment of anger, he strikes the rock instead of speaking to it as God commanded, and so forfeits his privilege to set foot in the promised land.

Your Daily Walk

In the margin, write three things that you feel are essential for your future security. Now go back over your list and cross off any item that could easily be destroyed by a natural disaster or a financial reversal. Is there anything left?

God made it clear to Aaron and his family that their security lay in Him alone, even as they enjoyed their new homeland. God had faithfully supplied Aaron’s daily needs in the past (18:18-19), and He would do the same in the future. This was also true for the nation as a whole. God had been their great Sustainer, and would continue to provide even when they possessed wealth of their own.

Though owning property or having a bank account is not wrong, the danger is in allowing such things to crowd out your daily dependence on God. You may be in “good hands” financially, but you’re in better hands with God. Reread Numbers 18:20 to remind you that true security comes from God.

Insight - Don’t Touch That Grave!

Because a Jew was defiled by touching a human grave (19:16), tombs in Israel were often whitewashed so that unwary passersby could avoid contact with them. This helps explain why the Pharisees were offended when Jesus denounced them in Matthew 23:27 as “whitewashed tombs.”

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Overview

During Moses’s stay on the mountain, God reveals His detailed plans for the tabernacle in which He will dwell and receive His people’s worship. No item is overlooked in God’s design of this portable tent of worship. Everything is to be done “according to the plan shown you on the mountain” (26:30). God’s dwelling place with His people, Israel, will be the central structure in the camp and the focus of the nation’s attention and activities.

Your Daily Walk

How big is your God? Having studied the tabernacle in detail, keep in mind this was a portable building, capable of being dismantled and carried around as Israel journeyed. Though God’s presence uniquely inhabited the tabernacle, the fact that it could be disassembled for travel reminded the Israelites that their God could not be confined to four walls. He was with them in the fire and cloud; He could divide great seas and drown mighty armies; He could provide water from rocks and manna from the morning dew. Contrast this with the pagan gods of neighboring nations—powerless idols that had to be carried on their worshipers’ shoulders (Isaiah 46:5-7). Israel’s priests carried God’s temporary house on their shoulders, but Israel’s God carried them!

If at times you find yourself wishing God were a little more flexible, yielding more to your own desires and expectations, consider this fact: If God were small enough for you to control, He would not be strong enough to help you in times of need.

If you can, visit your church sometime today, and in the quiet, worshipful atmosphere of the silent sanctuary, spend a few minutes praising the God you serve—a God no building can contain.

Insight - How Would You Like to Hang These Drapes?

The Jewish historian Josephus explained that the veil that separated the Holy Place from the Holy of Holies was four inches thick. It was so sturdy that it could not be torn apart by horses tied to it, pulling in opposite directions.

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January 29

Exodus 28–31

Overview

No center of worship is complete without people to minister in it and utensils to use in the worship services. Chapters 28–31 describe the priests, Israel’s representatives before God, who are chosen to lead the worship in the tabernacle. Everything about them is special, from the clothing they wear to the elaborate sacrifices needed to prepare them for ministry, as well as the utensils and supplies they use (such as incense, perfumes, oil, the altar, and the basin) in the tabernacle worship. Even the designers and construction workers are handpicked by God.

Your Daily Walk

Preparing a priest for service in the tabernacle was no small chore (chapter 29). The most curious part of the ceremony involved killing a ram and applying the blood to the tip of the priest’s right ear, the thumb of his right hand, and the big toe of his right foot (29:20). The blood was a picture of cleansing. Before the priest could minister before the Lord, he had to be cleansed from the sin that polluted him. Then he needed to be dedicated to the Lord from the top of his head to the bottom of his feet. Every part of him, from his ear (which hears God’s Law) to his hand (which does God’s will) to his foot (which follows in God’s steps) must be surrendered to the will of God.

Does God have that kind of control over your whole life? If not, starting with your head, give each part of your body to Him in a prayer of dedication: “Lord, take my eyes; help me to look at those things that please You. Take my ears; help me to listen to things that build up, not tear down…” Then you, like Israel’s priests, will be ready to do His will—from head to toe.

Insight - Mystery Stones

The Urim and Thummim were probably two flat stones kept in the high priest's breastplate and used to determine the will of God. Each may have had one dark side and one light. Some scholars speculate that they were tossed into the air and allowed to fall to the ground. Two dark sides showed “yes,” two light sides showed “no,” and one of each showed “no reply.”

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January 30

 

Exodus 32–34

 

Incident of the Golden Calf

Key Passage:
Exodus 33–34

 

 

Overview

Six weeks have passed since the people made their solemn vow of fidelity to God. Concluding that Moses has died on the mountain, they insist on creating a replica of an Egyptian god. Coming upon this grotesque scene, Moses dashes the newly inscribed tablets to pieces, dramatically proclaiming the broken covenant. He destroys the golden calf and orders the Levites to slay guilty Israelites. Israel’s repentance, Moses’ selfless intercession, and God’s faithfulness to His promises account for a renewal of the covenant. New tablets are engraved and Moses experiences yet another encounter with God on Mount Sinai.

Your Daily Walk

“I can’t understand teenagers. One minute they want to be treated like adults; the next minute they act like children.”

This oft-voiced exasperation of many a parent illustrates a fact about growth. The process of maturation does not always move in a consistently forward direction. Everyone at one time or another reverts to former patterns of behavior.

The incident of the golden calf is but one of many cases of backsliding in Israel’s history. One lesson is clear: Believers are not immune from the practice of reverting to old habits and patterns of living. It may occur in an unguarded moment, such as an outburst of temper. Or it may be the result of impatience, when God’s timetable seems agonizingly slow. Or it may be because of the world’s culture that still lures your unguarded heart.

Take a personal inventory of your spiritual life. Have you made a commitment to the Lord in recent weeks? If so, have you followed through on it, or did you revert to your previous behavior? If you see a “golden calf” in your life, deal with it now.

Insight - The Golden Calf—A Lingering Legacy

Calf worship was expressly forbidden in the law (Exodus 20:4-6) and shown to be utterly useless by the plagues in Egypt. Yet, at least twice in Israel’s history, golden calves spelled destruction for the people (see Exodus 32; 1 Kings 12:28).

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January 31

 

Exodus 35–40

 

Tabernacle Erected and Occupied

Key Passage:
Exodus 40

 

 

Overview

The Book of Exodus closes with a detailed account of the construction of the tabernacle, the new place of residence for the God of Israel as He accompanies His people to Canaan. Notice the many steps involved in the project: Moses organizes the needed workers and materials; skilled artisans do the actual construction; Moses inspects the finished work; the tabernacle is erected and the furniture set in place; and finally, the glory of the Lord fills the tabernacle, showing God’s pleasure with the structure. From start to finish, the entire project is done “just as the Lord had commanded” Moses.

Your Daily Walk

God has always sought to dwell in the midst of people. Think back to the opening chapters of Genesis. There you find Adam and Eve in the garden. And in the cool of the evening, God walks through the garden, seeking face-to-face fellowship with His creation.

In today’s reading, God’s glory takes up residence in the tabernacle in order to accompany the Israelites on their journey to Canaan. Later in Israel’s history, God’s presence will reside in Solomon’s magnificent temple. And today God’s Holy Spirit indwells every child of God (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). The lesson is clear: God wants to identify Himself with those who are truly His. More specifically, God wants to identify Himself with you, to fellowship with you, to spend time with you, and to help you get to know Him better.

How do you go about building a relationship like that? Jot down the first five things that come to mind. Now use your list to help you organize your day and assign priorities to your activities. Place “time with God” at the top of the list. After all, that’s His greatest desire: to walk and talk with you. If that’s your greatest desire, tell Him so right now.

Insight - A Long Way to Find Freedom

Exodus begins with a mob of miserable slaves held captive in Egypt, yet ends with an emancipated nation in fellowship with God and on its way to Canaan. No wonder Exodus is called the “book of redemption.”

 

 

TAKE THE FIRST STEP

 

Congratulations! You’ve started your new year the right way by beginning a journey through the Bible with this devotional guide.

But every walk demands a first step. Have you taken the crucial first step in the Christian life … the step of faith to salvation? Unless you take that step, your so-called relationship with God will meander aimlessly, and your path will lead only to frustration and defeat. But take this mandatory step, and your walk with Jesus will be vibrant and fulfilling for all eternity. Consider these stepping stones on the path of salvation:

1. All people are sinners. “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23).
2. The penalty for sin is death.“The wages of sin is death” (Romans 6:23).
3. Salvation comes by personal trust in God’s Son, Jesus Christ.

“It is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8).

Christ paid the price on the cross for every one of your sins so that you might have eternal life. By believing in His death, burial, and resurrection all on your behalf, you enter into an eternal relationship with God.

“God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16). Free salvation awaits you. Take the first step now, and watch your pathway unfold!

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Overview

In chapters 32–36, Jacob the schemer becomes Jacob the servant of God. After leaving his Uncle Laban, Jacob fears the inevitable reunion with his estranged brother, Esau. But before he can be reconciled to Esau, he must first be reconciled to God. At the ford of Jabbok, he wrestles with the angel of the Lord, insisting on a blessing before he will release him. The angel assures him of God’s continued presence, and leaves him with a new name—Israel (in Hebrew, the name Israel sounds like “he struggled with God”; see Genesis 32:28)—and a permanent limp. After an emotional reunion with Esau, Jacob returns to Canaan, where God confirms the promises He made to Abraham and Isaac—promises of a large posterity and a new homeland.

Your Daily Walk

Is it possible to be a rich Christian in the will of God? That question would have brought a chuckle from Abraham or Jacob. Both men were fabulously wealthy in their day. Jacob, in particular, shows how a person blessed by God can gain great wealth in the world. His own personal testimony is found in 32:10: “I am unworthy of all the kindness and faithfulness you have shown your servant. I had only my staff when I crossed this Jordan, but now I have become two groups.” When he first crossed the Jordan, all Jacob owned was the staff in his hand and the clothes on his back. Now, some 20 years later, it takes two companies of men to carry all of God’s blessings back across.

Reflect on the material possessions God has given you. Could it be that God has prospered you so that you, in turn, might be a blessing to others? If so, who are the “others” God has brought into your life for that purpose? If God brings someone to mind, write that individual’s name in the margin. Then let Jesus’ own words in Acts 20:35 spur you to action.

Insight - When God Prospers Someone, Look Out!

Beginning with nothing, Jacob amassed such wealth over 20 years that when he left for Canaan, he could afford to give his brother Esau 550 animals as a gift without straining the family budget.

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January 14

Genesis 37–40

Overview

A difficult dream sent by God to Pharaoh jars the memory of the chief butler, and Joseph is soon promoted from prisoner to prime minister because of his God-given insight. The dream is a reliable forecast of the prosperity and famine in the years ahead. The worldwide famine prompts Jacob to send 10 sons to Egypt for grain, where Joseph, recognizing them immediately, proceeds to teach them a painful lesson. A series of confrontations culminates in chapter 44, where the brothers unknowingly fulfill Joseph's boyhood dreams.

Your Daily Walk

For years, Joseph’s brothers had lived with their cunning deception of Jacob. The secret was so complete that Jacob probably blamed himself for the loss of his favorite son. And the other sons, though seeing their father's agony, maintained their conspiracy of silence at his expense.

But they overlooked one witness to their crime—God. As Judah discovered: “God has uncovered your servants’ guilt” (44:16). God gave them time to set things right, then He applied pressure. The result was a band of frightened men haunted by the memory of their lost brother. Guilt, anxiety, and uncertainty were their constant companions until their wrong was set right through confession and restoration.

As a sinner in the presence of God, you have two choices. You can carry the anxiety of your “secret” sins until God chooses to expose them. Or you can confess those sins to God and to those you’ve wronged, and as a result find forgiveness and peace. Because of Jesus’ death, you can take steps today to make things right with a brother or sister, pastor or neighbor, spouse or roommate. Will you do it?

Insight - Whatever Happened to the Tribe of Joseph?

Joseph’s sons, Manasseh and Ephraim, were later “adopted” by Jacob (48:5). Consequently, the descendants of Joseph would later comprise two tribes of Israel, named respectively for his two sons.

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