By Mike Chaffin
These are the commandments and the judgments which the Lord commanded the children of Israel by the hand of Moses in the plains of Moab by the Jordan, across from Jericho. Numbers 36:13
God has led his people through the desert. He is poised to lead them into the promised land. While this verse in Numbers initially looks a lot like the last word in Leviticus; look closer. The commandments and instruction in Leviticus came from God’s instructions to Moses while he was on Mt. Sinai. This verse in Numbers refers to additional instructions they need setting up a society in the new land, Things like inheritance laws, division of the land, and rules for dealing with crime.
The book of Numbers was written during the 40 years the Hebrew people spent exiled in the desert. In exile because they wouldn’t trust God, wouldn’t listen, and willfully rebelled. Commandments were required to handle some of the situations that arose during those forty years. Judgements were made on those who weren’t willing to live a holy life and those who rebelled against Moses, Aaron and God. Holiness is important.
Rebellion brings judgement. It did in the desert and still does today. What can be done to escape the coming judgement? The Good News is found only in Jesus and obedience to him. The last word to remember that God is telling us is Obedience. He requires it.
Jesus came to earth on a mission to live a Holy life and be obedient to the Father in laying his life down as a sacrifice for our sins. We have been paid for by a price. The gift is free to us through God’s grace. With salvation comes the Holy Spirit to lead us and guide us into Holiness and Obedience. You can’t have one without the other.
Prayer: Lord, thank you for your guidance. For your Word, the Bible gives us the directions we need to follow to be Holy. Help me be obedient to your word. To turn from sin and the world, die to fleshly desires, and live a new life in the Spirit, doing your will. Help me in all I do. In Jesus Name, Amen.
