For a full description of the (Y4) reading plan, see the “About” page.
Num. 17-18
God didn’t set up the nation of Israel and His Tabernacle system randomly. He had purpose in all of it. And that purpose points to Jesus as the redeemer of all mankind. So when God chose Aaron and his sons as the High Priestly line, He told them two things. First, that they would bear the guilt in connection with the sanctuary and their priesthood. And second, that the Levites would be joined with them and serve them. This shadow system points to God’s true design. Jesus is our true High Priest, who bears our guilt. And all who believe in Him are God’s gift to Him. God joins us together with Crist to serve Him in serving the world.
Ps. 55
“His speech was smoother than butter, but his heart was war; his words were softer than oil, yet they were drawn swords.” (Ps. 55:21). Boy, that sounds like politicians, corporate PR reps, and used car salesmen! Honestly, though, this is not an occupational problem, but a human one. It’s just that positions of power and persuasion tend to amplify it.
The Bible speaks a lot about our words and controlling our tongue. It also indicates that our words have their roots in our hearts. Which means it isn’t just the words that matter; it’s where they come from. And that means we need to be careful not to let whatever sounds good draw us in. Instead, we need to ask for discernment regarding the sincerity of those smooth sounding words. Hard for us, perhaps, but not for God, who sees and knows every human heart. And thankfully, His Spirit, who lives in us, is willing, ready, and able to let us know.
Is. 7
God had Isaiah tell Ahaz to ask for a sign. God of course knew that Ahaz wouldn’t. That, too, seems by design to me, because the given sign was then from God and God alone. And it just so happens that it was the sign of Immanuel. This is the sign that both promises and assures salvation. And, just like the sign itself, salvation and our assurance of it come from God alone.