A reminder to trust God through the Test

 Read Deuteronomy 1-3. 

The name of the book means "second law".  It is the second giving, or explanation, of the law by Moses to this second generation (1:5). 

Here Moses takes time to recount what happened forty years before that prompted their wilderness wandering to bring them to this place.  He reminded them of the events found in Numbers 13.  The command was to "go up and take possession" of the land God promised to Abraham and his descendants.  But the people asked for some men to go and spy out the land first.  When the report came back from the spies, the nation refused to go in.  Joshua and Caleb stood against their entire nation and declared that there was no reason for fear.  The LORD would fight for them.  

But the nation did not believe God would take care of them.  They believed an evil report against God and therefore became an "evil generation" (1:35).  So, they wandered around until that entire adult population died.  Even then, the LORD did not forsake them.  He watched over them, protected them, and cared for their needs.  He fought for them as they faced opposition and war from other nations.  "For the LORD your God has blessed you in all the work of your hands.  He knows your going through this great wilderness. These forty years the LORD your God had been with you.  You have lacked nothing" (2:7) 

That previous generation did not enter and enjoy the full blessings of God due to unbelief.  Moses failed as well to trust God at a crucial time.  In an angry moment he, too, lost the privilege of entering the land. 

Now, a new generation was poised to cross the Jordan River and do what their fathers would not dare.  They needed to hear the stories again.  They needed to be reminded of the mistakes of the past.  They needed to be taught again the basic expectations that God had for them as a people. 

The writer of Hebrews comments on what happened to the first generation that came out of Egypt.  "So we see that they were unable to enter because of unbelief" (Hebrews 3:19).  The urging to all of us when facing difficulties and hard roads ahead is not to question God, or to believe that God is mad at us (1:27), but in faith-believing trust Him. "Take care, brothers, lest there be in any of you an evil, unbelieving heart, leading you to fall away from the living God.  But exhort one another every day..." (Hebrews 3:12-13a).

 

We all need a Safe Place

 Read Numbers 34-36. 

Before the nation entered the land of promise, Moses gave some broad instructions on dividing up the land among the 9 1/2 tribes.  Then, he turned his attention to the tribe of Levi.  As a chosen tribe of priests, who served the other tribes, the Levites were not granted a single large portion of real estate.  Instead, they were given six strategically located cities with their surrounding pastureland; north, central and south on both sides of the Jordan River. 

These were called Cities of Refuge.  Not only did the Levites live in them but the cities provided a safe haven for a person who accidentally killed another.  Protection was provided from unjust avengers.  It was not a safe place for criminals.  

We all need a place of refuge, a safe place when things go wrong.  Sometimes it is accidental and without intent on our part.  Often it is our own fault as a result of a foolish decision.  But trouble, guilt, and oppression sooner or later find everyone.  Here is our Hope: 

Psalm 9:9-"The LORD is a stronghold for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.  And those who know your name put their trust in you, for you, O LORD, have not forsaken those who seek you." 

Psalm 59:16-"But I will sing of your strength; I will sing aloud of your steadfast love in the morning.  For you have been to me a fortress and a refuge in the day of my distress." 

Psalm 62:5-8-"For God alone, O my soul, wait in silence, for my hope is from him.  He only is my rock and my salvation, my fortress; I shall not be shaken.  On God rests my salvation and my glory; my mighty rock, my refuge is God."

 

Four Demonstrations of Worship

 Read Numbers 33. 

Google Maps never did a better job than this.  Forty years of travel stops in 49 verses. 

When God decimated the Egyptians in Exodus and then in 33:51-53 He gave the command to drive out the inhabitants of Canaan, the underlying motive must be remembered.  God was executing judgment on the sin of His enemies.  It was not Israel against them, but them against God.  This was spiritual warfare. 

33:4b-"On their gods also the LORD executed judgments."

33:52b-"destroy all their figured stones and destroy all their metal images and demolish all their high places." 

The spiritual purification of the land was crucial to their future as a nation.  God warned them about this at the end of the chapter.  As Creator and Owner of all things, He will not allow the people He created to ignore Him, to be lured by the unbelieving world around them, nor to devote their lives to man-made things. 

Exodus 20:3-"You shall have no other gods before me.  You shall not make for yourself a carved image, or any likeness of anything that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth.  You shall not bow down to them or serve them, for I the LORD your God am a jealous God..." 

Again, in Exodus 34:12-14-"Take care, lest you make a covenant with the inhabitants of the land to which you go, lest it become a snare in your midst.  You shall tear down their altars and break their pillars and cut down their Asherim (for you shall worship no other god, for the LORD, whose name in Jealous, is a jealous God)". 

The LORD has given each of us four ways to demonstrate our acknowledgement of His ownership and our worship of Him.

1. Temple-The human body is a stewardship from God.  The way we treat the one He gave us is a demonstration, in part, of our response to Him.

"Do you not know that you are God's temple and that God's Spirit dwells in you?  If anyone destroys God's temple, God will destroy him.  For God's temple is holy, and you are that temple." (1Corinthians 3:16-17) 

2. Time-Each minute, each hour, each day, each year, and each life is a gift from God to us.  We are steward's and accountable for how we use that gift.

"So teach us to number our days that we may get a heart of wisdom." (Psalm 90:12) 

3. Talent-The Holy Spirit has given to everyone of us the ability to serve the LORD for the good of others.  Different from natural skill, this ability is called a spiritual gift.

"Now there are a varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone.  To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good." (1 Corinthians 12:4-7) 

4. Treasure-By far, the Bible has more to say about this one than all the others combined.

"You shall remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth..." (Deuteronomy 8:18)

"Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce." (Proverbs 3:9)

"Bring the full tithes into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house.  And thereby put me to the test, says the LORD of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need.  I will rebuke the devourer for you, so that it will not destroy the fruits of your soil, and your vine in the field shall not fail to bear, says the LORD of hosts."  Malachi 3:10-11) 

Don't miss God's intention of us honoring Him in this way.  The promised results, in part, become a basis of our witness to the unbelieving world around us.  "Then all nations will call you blessed, for you will be a land of delight says the LORD of hosts." (Malachi 3:12)  

Leading when someone has a different Idea

 Read Numbers 32. 

Israel was encamped on the east side of the Jordan River, just north of the Dead Sea.  It was here that the LORD prepared them for entering the land of promise.  This was what they had all been waiting for.  But two and a half of the twelve tribal families wanted to remain on the east side.  With their great flocks and herds, the land along the river seemed ideal for them. 

Moses’ first reaction was anger.  He read this as a divisive threat to national unity and as turning back on God's plan for Israel.  The basis for his quick reaction was due to their father's failure to go forward into the land after the report of the spies in Chapters 13-14.  That sin resulted in the nation wandering in the wilderness for 40 years and the loss of an entire generation of people. 

His concerns were all legitimate.  As the leader, he felt the weight of responsibility to keep the nation together and moving forward.  As a man of God, he carried a passionate desire to do what God wanted to get done. 

To their credit, the tribes involved carefully explained their reasoning for the proposal.  Further they committed themselves to national unity and the conquest of the land on the west side of the Jordan.  Then, Moses made the agreement with them in the hearing of Joshua, Moses' successor, and Eleazar, the High Priest.  With the change in leadership this was crucial.  Later in the book of Joshua this agreement was forgotten and misunderstood almost to the point of civil war. 

Lessons for leaders:

1. Listen to your people.  Know what they are thinking.  Know their dreams, ideas, and aspirations.

2. Ask good questions.  Show respect for others by endeavoring to understand their views and why they would say those things.  It is hard for leaders not to be defensive of their own ideas and ways of doing things. 

3. Learn from the past but try not to react to changes based upon previous bad experiences.

4. Give people freedom to be themselves, to think and act.  Someone else may have a good idea that fits them better and serves others better than your expectation.

5. Set the guidelines or warnings by anticipating the "what ifs".

6. Be sure others are aware of the agreement.  This safeguards the organization in case the leadership changes.

7. When the answer needs to be "no" be sure that everyone understands that you are really saying "yes" to something better.

 

Lessons for those within the organization:

1. Don't stop thinking of better ideas or ways of doing things.  Good leaders are looking for better solutions in order to better serve others.

2. Be respectful of your leaders.  They carry the weight of the responsibility and accountability for all corporate decisions.

3. Be prepared for questions.  Asking for an explanation may feel like a challenge or even rejection.  But a good idea must have validity.

4. Anticipate misunderstanding or lack of acceptance.

5. Trust your leaders, even if things do not go your way. 

Dealing with some unfinished Business

 Read Numbers 28-31. 

In preparing this second generation for entering the land that God promised to Abraham and his descendants, the LORD repeated a few important lessons here and in the book of Deuteronomy.  He had them take a second census, and then reminded them of the offerings, feasts, and vows.  Next, the nation needed to deal with some unfinished business. 

The basis for the war in chapter 31 is found in chapters 22-25.  The Midianites allied with the Moabites to fight Israel.  They tried to hire Balaam, a pagan prophet, to curse Israel and shore up their own confidence.  When that did not work, Satan used another tactic against God's people.  The Moabites and Midianites lured many into sexual immorality and false worship.  The LORD at that time meted out some strong and swift judgment against His own people.  But nothing further is said about the enemy involved until chapter 31. 

God told Moses to prepare for war "to execute the LORD's vengeance on Midian."  This was God's judgment and He used Israel to perform it.  Do not miss 31:8b-"And they also killed Balaam the son of Beor with the sword."  Note when the soldiers returned, Moses became angry as he discovered that not only had the young males been allowed to live, but the sexually active Midianite women had not been killed.  Then, at his command the annihilation of the Midianites was complete. 

The Midianites may have felt for a long time that they got away with their sin.  They knew of the true and living God and His great power.  But instead of surrendering to the LORD, they chose to rebel against Him and His people.  They chose to go their own way.  The truth in this story is that no one gets away with sin.  

Even today there "are scoffers, following their own sinful desires.  They will say, 'Where is the promise of his coming?'"  "The Lord is not slow to fulfill his promise as some count slowness, but is patient toward you, not wishing that any should perish, but that all should reach repentance.  But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a roar, and the heavenly bodies will be burned up and dissolved, and the earth and the works that done on it will be exposed."  (2 Peter 3:4-10) 

Then, Peter wrote this question: "Since all these things are thus to be dissolved, what sort of people ought you to be in lives of holiness and godliness...?" (2 Peter 3:11)

 

God's requirement for a Leader

 Read Numbers 26-27. 

The book is called Numbers because twice God instructed Israel to conduct a national census.  The counting was limited to those twenty years of age and older who were able to go to war.  In 1:46 the total was 603,550.  Now, after 40 years of wandering in the wilderness, only Joshua and Caleb (and of course, Moses) remain from the first generation of former slaves.  The new total was 601,730.  It is estimated that the entire population would have been, at least, five times that amount. 

With a new generation ready to enter their land of promise, it was time for a new leader.  Moses, because of his public sin in chapter 20, knew he would not be allowed go with them.  But God does a gracious thing for Moses in letting him see the land from a mountain top.  It was here that Moses prayed for a successor to shepherd the people. 

The LORD selected Joshua, "a man in whom is the Spirit".  Joshua had been Moses' assistant for a long time.  He served as the army's field general.  Along with Caleb, he had been one of the two faithful men who originally spied out the new land.  But when God referred to Joshua, he cited none of his positions or achievements.  He simply called him a Spirit-filled man. 

Being filled with the Spirit means that a person surrenders control of thoughts, speech and behaviors to the LORD and disciplines themselves to do what He desires (Galatians 5:16-24).  Education, skill, personality, and experience are all important components of job qualifications.  But when God's Spirit is in control of a person, He can give them favor with others, open doors, and enable their influence to exceed all expectations.  He does this in a person's life so He alone will receive the credit.

 

Living counter to Culture

 Read Numbers 25. 

Followers of the LORD have always lived counter to the culture around them.  Though not perfect...

God's people live in the world

but they are not of the world,

and are to conduct themselves in such a way in the world

that the world sees the difference God has made in their lives, even if they disagree. 

By living out the commands and principles of God's word, we have the opportunity to "adorn the doctrine of God our Savior" (Titus 2:10).  To some with open hearts, such a lifestyle becomes attractive and they too place their faith in Christ.  Some others may observe with respect or even amazement of the difference.  Then, to some who are so gripped by their sin and rebellion against God, they reject all that is holy and pure. 

It is always sad to see someone violate their commitments or go back on their promises.  The news media are quick to point out these lapses when it comes to public figures.  But God holds everyone, everywhere accountable, whether they agree with Him or not, or even if they refuse to acknowledge His very existence. 

In this chapter, the nation of Israel camped on the east side of the Jordan River.  It appears to be a time of a pagan celebration that involved gross immorality.  These were not merely physical acts, but they were part of that culture's spiritual worship.  Demonic is the best description for it, as is all false religions. 

Some of the Israelites succumbed to the cultural temptations.  God held "all the chiefs of the people" accountable.  A total of 24,000 died.  Though the judgment on sin may not always come so quickly, God takes the purity of His people seriously. 

Sobering lessons for us all from this chapter.

1. Leaders are responsible for protecting the moral purity of the people.

2. Leaders are responsible for protecting the spiritual purity of the people.

3. God can use one courageous leader to restore purity among the people.

4. Sooner or later, God holds individuals accountable for their own behavior. 

Question: Is there an area of spiritual or moral impurity in my life that I need to courageously confront today?

 

A Messenger's Motive Check

 Read Numbers 22-24. 

This is a story of a pagan prophet, yet at least here, God spoke to him directly.  Balaam obviously had some reputation of being a seer who could be called upon in time of need. 

Balak, king of Moab, became frightened at the sight and size of the nation of Israel.  His terror caused him to seek spiritual advice before going to war.   His solution was to pay Balaam to curse his enemy.  When Balaam could not be bought, Balak next offered him the equivalent of a blank check to come and curse Israel. 

This may have been a custom for other enemies, but such was not going to happen here.  The basis for the denial of cursing Israel goes all the way back to Genesis 12.  In His covenant to Abraham, the LORD promised, "I will bless those who bless you, and him who dishonors you I will curse."  The continuing validity of this promise is underscored in Balaam's oracle in 23:19-"God is not a man that he should lie, or a son of man, that he should change his mind.  Has he said, and will he not do it?  Or has he spoken and will he not fulfill it?" 

Evidently, Balaam began thinking about Balak's offer.  Curiosity about the experience of meeting with Balak and getting paid did not seem wrong in itself.  Perhaps, he should go and check it out.  What harm would it do?  God gave him the green light to go, but the LORD had more to say.  

The angel of the LORD met Balaam on the road.  Now we get to see another preincarnate appearance of Jesus.  This is another preincarnate appearance of Jesus.  God was angry with him.  Not because he went but because thought he could personally profit from this.  2 Peter 2:15-16 provides the commentary in the context about false teachers-"Forsaking the right way, they have gone astray.  They have followed the way of Balaam, the son of Beor, who loved gain from wrongdoing, but was rebuked for his own transgression; a speechless donkey spoke with human voice and restrained the prophet's madness." 

The LORD protected Balaam from being spiritually "reckless" (22:32).  Balaam became angry at the very thing God used to save his life.  He acknowledged his sin and the LORD again allowed him to proceed but with care about the message to be delivered.   No less than four times in this story Balaam announced that he could only speak what the what the LORD has said. 

God's message to the unbelieving world is not ours to change.  Some today driven by personal preferences, or personal gain, or seeking to be accepted, or desiring to be relevant want to compromise the Word of God.  The scriptures, when rightly understood, are always relevant and powerful, changing lives forever.

Look and Live!

 Read Numbers 21. 

No matter what Moses or God did the complaining continued.  And the people seem to be even more bold, not just blaming Moses but "spoke against God" (v.5).  The issue of complaint was the same as before.  They were worried about their daily food and water. 

Jesus said, "Therefore do not be anxious, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?'  For your heavenly Father knows that you need them all.  But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." (Matthew 6:31-32) 

The LORD's judgment against those who would so falsely accuse Him of not supplying their needs was a plague of venomous snakes.  "Many people of Israel died" (v.6).  In order to stop the plague, God had Moses craft a bronze snake and put it on a pole as a symbol of healing.  Those who looked at it would live.  There was absolutely no power in the pole.  The power was in their response of faith that doing what God instructed would save them. 

The official logo of the American Medical Association is a serpent on a pole, though more stylized now.  In the official explanation, they do not give credit to Numbers 21 from c.1500 B.C. for the logo.  Instead, they site a mythical figure of Aesculapius, the son of the sun god Apollo, as early as 1200 B.C. for its basis.  Beginning in the 17th century, a snake on a pole became the primary symbol of medicine.  The AMA has utilized it as its logo since 1910.  How many medical professionals through the years have had no idea of the true source of their own logo? 

As Jesus provides a glimpse of the crucifixion for healing sin, He commented on this very passage in Numbers.  "As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whoever believes in him may have eternal life." 

How to Glorify God under Pressure

 Read Numbers 20. 

We have seen this before.  Whenever there is an overwhelming need, the people complain against and blame their leaders.  Further, they wish voice that either they had stayed in slavery in Egypt or died already.  Despite all that God has done to end it, the grumbling continued. 

Emotions and perceptions can trump reality and truth. 

Fear causes us to panic that our needs will not be met.  It is so easy to blame others for what, in fact, God is doing.  In this case, God wanted to demonstrate His great power and meet their needs.  But because the LORD did not supply as they wanted and on their timetable, they felt totally justified in their rebellion. 

God had a miraculous plan to meet their needs; one they would never forget.  Three steps to the instructions: a) take the staff; b) assemble the people; c) tell the rock to yield its water.  Moses obeyed the first two and utterly disobeyed the last part.  He failed to discipline his anger.  This resulted in Moses never entering the promised land. 

Paul told Pastor Timothy that "the Lord's servant must not be quarrelsome but kind to everyone, able to teach, patiently enduring evil, correcting his opponents with gentleness" (2 Timothy 2:24-25a).  That is tough to do when facing angry people.  Moses lost it because he took the complaining personally.  Note his words in 20:10b-"Hear now you rebels: shall we bring water for you out of this rock?"  By announcing that "we" (Moses and Aaron) would supply water and by striking the rock hard twice, he gave appearance to the people that his power could do this.  He failed to glorify God and direct full attention to Him. 

The LORD is concerned about not only what is done but also how it is done. 

When others see the difference Christ makes in the way we handle a pressure situation, God can use it to draw attention to Himself.  So, how can we glorify God when the pressure is on? 

1. Know exactly what God wants done.

2. Ask to be filled with the Spirit (Galatians 5:16-24).

3. Obey wholeheartedly. 

Jesus is the Rock of Ages.  When a person speaks to that Rock, He gives Living Water that springs up into everlasting life.  (John 4:10-14)

Faithful and Fruitful

 Read Numbers 17-19. 

God sovereignly selected the tribe of Levi to serve as priests for the nation.  Then, He chose Aaron to be the High Priest.  Aaron's spiritual leadership had been so challenged in the previous rebellion that God intervened with a sure vindication as to His choice of the Levites and Aaron in particular. 

A chief of each of the twelve tribes presented a wooden walking staff to Moses for a test that God designed.  Imagine the miracle of life that God controls.  He can make even a piece of dead, carved wood to sprout.  But the next day when Moses went into the Tabernacle to see the results of the test he found more than anyone could have imagined.  Overnight, Aaron's staff had not only sprouted but produced ripe almonds. 

God's miracles were always used to validate His message.  Here the stated purpose was to end the grumbling and rebellion against His chosen leadership. 

Next, to further vindicate and solidify the ministry of the priests, God gave more specific instructions for them to carry out. 

Two insights:

1. The requirement of stewardship is faithfulness.

To the Corinthians, Paul wrote: "This is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God.  Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found trustworthy." (1 Corinthians 4:1-2)

Whatever God has call us to do and wherever He has placed us to serve, we are to demonstrate that we can be trusted with the assignment.  Further, we are faithful in fulfilling the assignment. 

2. The requirement of leadership is fruitfulness.

By definition, the word leadership indicates that a group of people are going some place or endeavoring to achieve something.  There is inherent movement needed that requires someone to show the way.  Progress of any organization or organism is never constant; it is most often seasonal.  But over time, production, or fruitfulness, is a natural expectation.  

Yet, fruitfulness is not limited to leadership.  It is the LORD's expectation of all His followers.  Note Jesus' words from John 15:

"Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit." (v.5)

"By this my Father is glorified that you bear much fruit and prove to be my disciples." (v.8)

"You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit..." (v.16)

 

5 Lessons from a Rebellion

 Read Numbers 15-16. 

In chapter 15, God gave the Israelites a few more instructions to prepare them and to remind them of what He had said.  This included giving an offering of gratitude, the seriousness of breaking His laws, and even sewing reminders for their clothing. 

Despite everything that they had seen and heard, Korah and his clan decided to amass a frontal attack on the spiritual leadership of Moses and Aaron.  We have seen such a challenge before, but this one includes 250 "chiefs of the congregation."  Their accusation in 16:3 centers on their belief that the entire nation is just fine spiritually and that these two leaders had exalted themselves as holier than everyone else.  The truth was these chiefs were rebellious and filled with sinful jealousy.  

Notice the responses of Moses.  He did not defend himself. 

1. He first fell on his face. (16:4)   

2. He entrusted the outcome to God.

3. God gave Moses direction on what to do. 

In his message to them, Moses, reminded these men that God had separated them out from the nation as Levites, He had allowed them to serve Him in the tabernacle and to be near the presence of the LORD in ministering to and for the people.  His question to them was "Is it too small a thing for you?"  In other words, "Did not this special place God gave you mean anything to you?" 

The challenge was not resolved quickly.  Some would not even come to a meeting with Moses.  God again expressed in anger His willingness to destroy the entire nation.  And, again, Moses interceded for the congregation.  It cost Korah and his entire family their lives and everything that belonged to them.  The 250 rebellious men also lost their lives.  Their sin was not against Moses and Aaron, but 16:30b states "these men have despised the LORD." 

Just when you would think the issue had been resolved, it was not.  "But the next day all the congregation of the people of Israel grumbled..." (16:41) They blamed Moses and Aaron for the deaths of their friends.  Now the entire congregation was angry with them.  God sent a plague and 14,700 more died.  Once more, Moses interceded for the nation to stop the plague.  What a powerful description of Aaron as a godly leader in 16:48- "and he stood between the dead and the living." 

Lessons from the rebellion:

1. Whenever a decision is made, expect it to be tested.    Good leaders discuss and prepare for the test as best they can.  Even then they can be blindsided.

2. Some people never learn.  They go through life ignoring the grace of God and His claim on their lives, making the same foolish decisions over and over again.

3. God is deadly serious about obedience.  Some have ignored the fact that this is still true.  Because the ground did not open up to kill them when they disobeyed, they may feel they got away with sin.  They did not.  Without repentance, God will deal with them in His time.

4. There are no small jobs in serving the LORD.  There is a place for everyone to be used of God.  He will provide opportunities to serve Him.  It is our pride that desires the bigger or better spot.  We need to be careful to humbly serve where He puts us.

5. The most powerful activity of any leader is intercessory prayer.  We have seen this over and over in the life of Moses.  "The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working."  (James 5:16b)

 

7 Bedrock Principles for Leaders

Read Numbers 13-14. 

The Israelites had camped in the south and prepared to go north into the land of promise.  But before they did 12 spies were chosen for a reconnaissance mission.  Their job was to assess the land, the people, the agriculture, the cities, and economic conditions.  Their charge was to "be of good courage and bring some of the fruit of the land." 

Forty days later the men returned with their report.  All twelve spies saw the same things.  The problem was not with the facts but with their faith.  Ten of them felt based upon what they saw "we are not able" to go forward.  Two, Caleb and Joshua, stated "we are well able."  Who was correct?  Both!  Who was right?  Caleb and Joshua.  Why?  God said, they had a "different spirit" and "followed me fully." 

There are times when one may be factually correct and spiritually wrong.  This is one of those times. 

The report from the ten is called "bad".  In the King James the word is translated "evil" as it was meant to undermine and defame the will of God for this nation.  Then, they began to exaggerate their findings with intent to discourage the people even more (14:32-33).  This resulted in the people being so disillusioned that they announced their desire to choose their own leader and go back to Egypt!  How irrational is that? 

Their disillusionment came from two root issues: rebellion and fear (14:9).  God wanted to kill them right then for their ingratitude and unbelief in Him.  But Moses' interceded.  The result was that all ten spies died of a plague and the rest of that adult generation would never see the land.  They would die as they wandered in the wilderness one year for each of the forty days the spies were in the land.  The LORD was not going to change His promise or His plan.  Instead, He would work with the next generation who would obey Him. 

Lessons for leaders.

1. Never take anything to the congregation without the leaders being united in mind and heart.  Dr. John Maxwell used to say, "The meeting before the meeting determines the outcome of the meeting."

2. A divided leadership leads to a divided congregation 100% of the time and destroys the God-given potential.

3. Another Maxwell principle: Leadership is influence.  When a leader says something, they affect the faith or fears of others around them, whether formally or casually.  Leaders are/will be held accountable for the stewardship of the influence God gives them.

4. Without obedience to the Word of God, people will cast off restraint and plunge into sin.  This is the correct meaning of Proverbs 29:18 (see NIV, ESV or NAS translations).

5. Nothing is more important in leadership than intercessory prayer.  This is servant leadership at its best.

6. The sin was forgiven but the consequences remained.  Grace?  Yes.  But they forfeited the blessings God wanted to give and had prepared for them.

7. The will of God is not determined by a popular vote.  A majority vote in this story would have resulted in the stoning of godly men and the nation trying to return to slavery.  There are times when those faithful to the LORD must stand for what is right in the face of an opposing majority. 

Some serve in difficult places and endeavor to lead difficult people.  As with Moses, God sees, hears, knows, and will reward faithful stewards.  Hebrews 6:10 says it best, "For God is not so unjust as to overlook your work and the love that you showed for his sake in serving the saints, as you still do."

When Spiritual Authority is Challenged

 Read Numbers 12. 

The leadership challenges for Moses continued.  Only this time the criticism and questioning came from his own family.  Though both siblings were involved, it seems that his older sister, Miriam, was the instigator.  

On the surface, the issue that arose concerned Moses' new wife.  This was his second wife.  We are not told what happened, if anything, to his first wife, Zipporah.  Nor are we told what their disagreement was with this new wife.  But it did not take long for the root issue to become clear.  Aaron and Miriam questioned Moses’ spiritual authority to speak on behalf of God.  Most often, what people criticize about leadership is only the surface problem.  The root (real) issue will reveal itself in time. 

What they absolutely ignored was that Moses did not choose this position.  Indeed, he never wanted it (see Exodus 3-4).  God sovereignly chose him to lead this nation.  So, at its core, they were not questioning Moses, but the LORD Himself.  That is when God stepped in to speak audibly and unmistakably. 

1. God chooses who will speak for Him.  v. 6a

2. God spoke to the Old Testament prophets often through dreams, visions, an angel, etc.  v.6b

3. God spoke to Moses "mouth to mouth".  In other words, it was audible and personal.  The relationship was like no one else enjoyed. v.8 

Then, these two challengers were asked a question.  "Why then were you not afraid to speak against my servant Moses?"  They should have respected Moses.  Not because of Moses as a man but because he was merely saying and doing what God wanted said and done.  This was a direct affront to the LORD. 

A Couple Cautions.

We must be careful in making a direct application to spiritual leaders today.  The story here does have a uniqueness about it.  However, respect for those in authority over us is taught throughout the scriptures.  Leaders are human and there are times when leaders should be asked hard questions, but always the spirit should be one of respect.  The second caution is for leaders not to think more highly of themselves than they should.  Pride goes before a fall.  Those of us who serve in any capacity must remember we are not the owner, only stewards of God's stuff. 

Note the character description of Moses.

1. He served God humbly.

2. He served God faithfully.

3. He served God personally.

Though none of us will attain Moses' unique position, I believe those are the key character qualities God expects from all us. 

 

3 Common Leadership Challenges

 Read Numbers 7-11. 

Dealing with leadership expectations can frequently be overwhelming. 

What more could God had done for these people?  He rescued them from slavery.  He displayed His miraculous power.  He destroyed their enemies.  He provided their daily needs.  He gave them instructions on how to live, worship and follow Him.  "And the people complained..." (11:1). 

1. The Problem of Complaining People

Evidently, their complaining was open and public; so much so that the LORD took strong action that resulted in the death of some. 

Next, the "rabble" complained.  This refers to the non-Israelites who left Egypt and traveled with them.  Some translations refer to this group as the "mixed multitude."  They were tired of the manna that God gave them and voiced their "strong craving" for the foods back in Egypt.  At the end of this chapter God gave them what they wanted but many died for angering the LORD with their wrong desires.  All these things affected the entire nation.  It seemed everyone in every tent was now crying about something. 

2. The Problem of Leadership Burn Out

Few things are more disturbing to a leader than people within the organization complaining.  This time both the LORD and Moses became angry.  Every leader at one time or another has had the feelings expressed in Moses' prayer.  He knew he was there by the calling and will of God, yet he felt overwhelmed and unable to fix the problem he faced.  He just wanted to die and escape the mess. 

This level of turmoil most often is a signal of needed change.  God did not want a new leader or new people.  He wanted to add structure to the leadership.  God's answer was for Moses to share the load of leadership with others.  "They shall bear the burden of the people with you, so that you may not bear it yourself alone." (11:17) 

3. The Problem of Limited Resources

The people had eaten no meat for a long time.  So, God announced that He would give them meat.  When Moses questioned how God could supply that need, we hear a classic statement from Him.  "Is the LORD's hand shortened?  Now you shall see whether my word will come true for you or not." (11:23) 

Leadership challenges, though stressful, are God's opportunities to deal with issues, to reorganize the work, and to demonstrate His power.

4 Powerful Statements of Blessing for You

Read Numbers 5-6. 

As we saw in Leviticus, the LORD is serious about holiness.  He is holy and wants His people to be holy.  This is directly linked here to physical, relational and spiritual purity.  Separating the leper, for instance, protected the rest of the nation from the disease.  Dealing with breaking the wedding vows in such a public manner served as a severe warning to those who violated their promises and protected the nation's families.  Holding a specific promise like the Nazarite vow to God with such detail shows just how the LORD views and values human statements of intent. 

With all the restrictions and curses for violations, one may conclude that God is harsh in His requirements.  Yet, notice how quickly this section turns to God's goodness.  In His instructions to Moses, the Lord even includes how to publicly bless the people.  Perhaps, every Christian minister has used these words at one time or another and some quote this passage every week.  This serves as a model of how to pray a blessing over the people.  Notice the elements.  It is not Moses or other leaders who supply these things to the nation.  These are God's people.  He is the One who blesses them, and these blessings are based squarely on promises God has made to us. 

The Provision of the LORD.

"The LORD bless you..." 

James 1:17-"Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change." 

The Protection of the LORD.

"...and keep you."

Isaiah 41:10-"Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand." 

The Presence of the LORD.

"The LORD make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you."

Hebrews 13:5b-"I will never leave you nor forsake you." 

The Peace of the LORD.

"The LORD lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace."

Isaiah 26:3,4-"You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.  Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD GOD is an everlasting rock."

 

Do you see a crowd or Individuals?

 Read Numbers 1-4. 

Immediately one can determine why this is called the book of Numbers.  The LORD told Moses to take a national census (1:2).  The males, twenty years of age and older, numbered 603,550.  The reason for the limited count seems to be a check for the availability of those fit for war, if needed (1:45).   

Every person is important to God and should be important to us.

1. Numbers are important.

Each number represents a person with an eternal soul.  These are His creation.  When someone says they are not interested in the attendance at church, do they truly value individuals or just a crowd?  Attendance figures, if used correctly, are one indicator whether the ministry is effectively growing or diminishing in its influence for Christ.

2. Organization is important. 

Next, God gave instructions as to how the 12 tribal families were to be organized.  Three tribes camped on each side of the Tabernacle.  Banners were displayed high in the air so the people could find their spot.  This infrastructure served the nation well for leadership, communication, and mobilization purposes. 

Organization is important to God because it provides the very channels for leaders to lead.  Without efficient organization of people and work, communication will not be effective.  The work will suffer.  Production will not reach the group's potential capacity.  The local church is on a mission.  That mission demands organization for mobilizing each person in the congregation so they can find their spot. 

3. Service is important.

The Levites were given specific jobs to do.  Whether it was offering the sacrifices, guarding the Tabernacle, or properly packing up the "tent of meeting" for the next move, every duty was important.  Further, there was needed training for these duties.  In this case, handling God's stuff the wrong way could have meant death.  Every person doing their job correctly was a ministry for the LORD. 

The Lord has designed and equipped each person to serve Him effectively.  We do not have to wonder if wants to use us.  He does.  We do not have to wonder if God can use us.  He can.  We do not ever need to say we have nothing useful to offer.  Though some training may be required through the Holy Spirit He has already given us what we need.  As accountable stewards, our job is to get busy using what He has given to us.  

1 Corinthians 12:7, 11-"To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good...All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually as he wills."

Ephesians 2:10- "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them."

 

 

Does Obedience Result in Blessings?

 Leviticus 26-27 

By reading chapter 26 carefully, we learn much about the character of God and how He has chosen to interact with people.  Though this is Old Testament law and directed at the nation of Israel, God's character has not changed. 

One revealing assignment is to notice the organization of chapter 26 and write down the key statements God made in each paragraph.

If (v.3)

Then (v.4-13) 

But if (v.14)

Then (v.16-20) 

Then if (v.21) 

And if (v.23) 

But if (v.27) 

Then (v.34) 

But if (v.40)

Then (v.42) 

The principle is this: Blessings follow obedience.  It is not a prosperity gospel to expect the blessings of God when one aligns themselves with God's word.  Yet, immediate blessing is not always the result of doing what God wants.  It is truly living by faith when we can trust God that He will take care of our obedience to Him and in His time.  

Hebrews 11:39 reminds us that some faithful, godly men and women "did not receive what was promised" on earth.  However, that same verse states they were "commended through their faith" and "God had provided something better for us."  To lose temporal gains for that which will last for eternity is no loss at all.  It is a blessing of obedience.

 

So, what's the difference?

 Read Leviticus 20-25. 

The specific instructions continue regarding sexual purity, service and worship.  Again, one living today would ask why all these details are here. 

1. They had no guidelines how to live for the LORD and please Him. 

2. What they did know was mixed with a pagan Egyptian culture that worshipped many gods of creation rather than the Creator.

3. God wanted them to be different than the nations around them.  He wanted them to represent His nature, His character, and His word in such a way that others would want to worship Him also. 

"You shall be holy to me, for I the LORD am holy and have separated you from the peoples, that you should be mine."  (20:26) 

So, God told them what to do and what not to do in order to demonstrate those differences.  Each of those differences would prove to be personally and nationally beneficial to them.  God's commands were not to be seen as restrictive but liberating. 

Imagine a culture where people treat each other with respect, dignity and justice.  Imagine a culture that does not sacrifice their children to please a made up god, nor violate each other.  Imagine a culture that enjoys atonement for their sin and forgiveness.  Imagine a culture blessed by the Living God of Heaven because He is pleased with them.  Imagine a culture that stops at prescribed times during the year to celebrate the goodness of God's grace to them. 

The Apostle Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 6:16-7, "For we are the temple of the living God; as God said, 'I will make my dwelling among them and walk among them, and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.  Therefore, go out from their midst, and be separate from them, says the Lord, and touch no unclean thing; then I will welcome you, and I will be a father to you, and you shall be sons and daughters to me, says the Lord Almighty.'  Since we have these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of body and spirit, bringing holiness to completion in the fear of God."

 

Is there anything sacred to you?

 Read Leviticus 19 

"You shall be holy, for I the LORD your God am holy."  (19:2) 

Beginning in Exodus, God speaks of holy ground, holy ceremonies, holy day, holy garments, and other holy things.  In 11:44, holiness became personal: "...and be holy, for I am holy."  No longer was the word used of objects and places, but now God commanded His people to "be" holy.  And the primary reason for personal holiness is that our character and behavior are to reflect the character and behavior of God Himself. 

The word "holy" means sacred.  Something sacred has been set apart from other stuff and dedicated to God.  It is treated with care, protected, and honored.  

Watch and listen to the culture around you.  The way people speak, the way they dress, the way they treat others is largely disrespectful.  Anything goes and everyone else is expected to be tolerant.  Good manners have commonly been forsaken.  Society has become lax in standards of behavior.  Honor is rare instead of the norm.  Making promises and keeping commitments are neglected or negotiable.  Respect for others, respect for oneself, is an exception.  Respect for God and His name is nearly gone.  Think for example how many times a day people around you will use the phrase "Oh my God" (OMG for texters) and not once think of the violation of using the LORD's name in vain.  Cussing and profanity is so prevalent that even believers in Jesus commonly use words that I will not print here.  We live in a world where almost nothing is sacred anymore. 

But those who know and love God are commanded to be holy.  The difference will be noticeable.  As one wag put it, "If you were on trial for being a Christian, what evidence would be presented to convict you?" 

Next, God gives some more specific examples of how this works out in real life.  He speaks of how parents are to be revered, about worship, about sacrificial giving, about treatment of the poor, treatment of others, the use of omens, fortunetelling and the like for life guidance instead of God's word, treatment of one's physical body, the treatment of the elderly.  

In short, "...you shall love your neighbor as yourself: I am the LORD." (19:18)  When one does not like themselves, they will not treat themselves very well and certainly will not love others as they should. 

So, what is sacred to you?  What will you fight with all you have not to violate?

-Is your thinking sacred (holy) before the LORD?

-Is your speech sacred (holy) before the LORD?

-Is the way you treat your body sacred (holy) before the LORD?

-Is the way you treat those around you sacred (holy) before the LORD?

-Is your lifestyle and behavior sacred (holy) before the LORD?

-Is your worship of God sacred (holy) before the LORD?

Is Cleanliness next to Godliness?

Read Leviticus 11-18 

"Cleanliness is next to Godliness."  It will surprise many to discover that the quote is not in the Bible.  Most sources attribute it to an ancient Hebrew saying and has appeared in many forms ever since.  The first known similar expression in English comes from the writings of Francis Bacon in 1605: "Cleanness of body was ever deemed to proceed from a due reverence to God."  Then, in 1791, John Wesley wrote, "Slovenliness is no part of religion.  'Cleanliness is indeed next to Godliness." 

Imagine, several millions of people traveling in primitive conditions on foot.  There are no hospitals, no Center for Disease Control, and no awareness of things like germs, contamination, etc.  God demonstrated His special care for His people by giving them specific, practical instructions as to how to care for and protect themselves. 

The purification was not limited to the physical body.  Laws regarding moral behavior were included.  Note the terms God used for unlawful sexual behavior-depravity, abomination, perversion, iniquity.  Sex outside of marriage between a man and a woman is not okay with the LORD.  Just as those who do not follow physically cleanness will suffer, so shall those who practice moral impurity. 

Do not miss how God provided for spiritual cleanness in the middle of all these laws regarding purity.  Instructions for the Day of Atonement is found here.  Only the High Priest could enter the Holy of Holies and that once a year, only on this day.  The description in chapter 16 is where the term "scapegoat" is derived.  The High Priest laid his hands on the goat, symbolically transferring the guilt of sin, to the animal could die in the place of those who sinned.  The blood was sprinkled on the Mercy Seat.  This was really the lid of the Ark of Covenant that contained the two tablets of the law.  In other words, when God looked upon the demands of the law, He saw them through the blood that atoned for their sin. 

That is exactly what Jesus did on the cross.  He died in our place.  His shed blood paid for our sin once and for all.  At that moment God ripped the Holy of Holies curtain in the temple from top to bottom.  No longer would there be a need for sacrifices for sin.  No longer would there be a need for a human priest to intercede. 

"For there is one God, and there in one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus, who gave himself as a ransom for all..." (1 Timothy 2:5)     

So, is cleanliness really next to Godliness?  My answer is yes...inside and out. “Since we have these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from every defilement of the body and spirit, bringing holiness to completion in the fear of God." (2 Corinthians 7:1)