For a full description of the (Y4) reading plan, see the “About” page.
Lev. 6
God tells us here that when we lie, cheat, and steal from others, we act unfaithfully and sin against God. This reminds me of King David’s sin regarding Bathsheba and Uriah. When Nathan confronted him, David said, “I have sinned against the Lord.” (2 Sam. 12:13a). He didn’t say he had sinned against Bathsheba or Uriah. This speaks to the truth that God is the only standard. It is His righteousness that we fail to live up to. That is what sin is, after all – missing the mark of righteousness. And humans aren’t the ones who hold that standard.
Ps. 5-6
One phrase stands out to me in these Psalms this morning. It is, “They flatter with their tongue.” (Ps. 5:9d). The rest of this verse states, “There is nothing reliable in what they say; their inward part is destruction itself. Their throat is an open grave;” (Ps. 5:9a-c). Boy, do I see this a lot! Especially so in leadership. People say things that sound good and compassionate, but their flowery words mask evil in their hearts. That is why we need to do more than just listen to what people, especially those in or seeking leadership roles, say. We need to seek wisdom from God to see past the pretense and discern their spirit. God knows who serves Him and who serves the enemy and we will also know if we draw near to Him. So take refuge in God and don’t be deceived!
Prov. 21
“To do righteousness and justice is desired by the LORD more than sacrifice.” (Pr. 21:3). I think another way to look at this verse is to say that God does not desire superficial, external actions but, rather, true sacrifice of self. After all, which is the greater sacrifice – slaughtering an animal or setting aside our own desires? And we cannot do righteousness and justice while pursuing our own desires.