Nazirite Vow - Part 3 - Samuel (Numbers 6)

 

"The LORD said to Moses, "Speak to the Israelites and say to them:  'If a man or woman wants to make a special vow, a vow of separation to the LORD as a Nazirite, he must abstain from wine and other fermented drink...'" (Numbers 6:1-3).

Samuel's story is always of great interest to me.  He is one who became a Nazirite due to his mother's vow.  He faithfully kept this vow all his life and became known as a man of prayer, as well as being a prophet and judge among the people of Israel.

His fault was not guiding his sons well.  Samuel appointed them as judges in Beersheba but they became corrupt.  Again, a warning especially to those of us who serve the Lord in any capacity but also in a more influential spiritual leadership role - don't neglect your children.

Sometimes we can get so caught up tending to others - think of this effect upon your children.  They can often come to believe you care more for others and even Your God more than for them.  Resentment against the parents and God can build up and the chidlren act up and/or turn away and you are left thinking, "Huh!?  What happened?  How could this possibly be?"

I'm not putting the full blame upon such parents as each of us must take responsibilty for our own actions.  I'm just saying, be cautious and considerate, don't be the one who causes another to stumble and turn away from following after the Lord and His righeousness.  God gave you those children and they are your responsibility.  Let's have sensitivity to their needs, emotionally, spiritually, as well as physically.  Don't embitter or exasperate your children (see 1 Samuel 1:9-10; 8:1-2 and Colossians 3:21).

Father God, You are the perfect parent, we earthly ones often fail and our children suffer because of it.  We humbly ask for greater wisdom, knowledge and understanding in governing and caring for our children and balancing our busy lives in futhering and caring for Your kingdom.  Help us not to neglect our children while tending to Yours.  Give us the strength to live in faithful commitment to you, staying true to our vows and to our children.  I ask in Your son Jesus' most precious name, Amen.

                                                  ~ERC  February 2024~

Based on Numbers 6:1-21 NIV.

Sing, Goodness of God, along with Bethel Music & Jenn Johnson.

See also:

Nazirite Vow - Part 1 -Introduction

Nazirite Vow - Part 2 - Samson

Book Review - Thor's Revenge - By Donovan Cook - Publication Date: 1 March 2024

 Reader's interested in Norse-Viking type personas of Denmark may well be interested in this saga.  It depicts fierce warriors of yesteryears in constant battle over land, power and religion - or lack of it and in dependance upon gods or God, as the case may be.  Battles being between West & East Francia and Denmark.

It took a few chapters  to build up enthusiasm for the narrative for me as there is much blood, gut and gore sort of lore that just is not my cup of tea.  Eventually, though, the mystery surrounding Charles and a certain cross got the curiosity juices flowing.  Historical fiction although loosely wrapped, does get my attention.  Other readers may well have greater appreciation overall in the third book in the Charlemagne Cross series.   I believe a fourth is forthcoming.

                                                  ~Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger~

                                                               February 2024

Disclaimer:  This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent to me by NetGalley and the publisher.

Read review on Goodreads.

Nazirite Vow - Part 2 - Samson (Numbers 6)

 

"The LORD said to Moses, "Speak to the Israelites and say to them: 'If a man or woman wants to make a special vow, a vow of separation to the LORD as a Nazirite, he must abstain from wine and other fermented drink...'" (Numbers 6:1-3)

Would you consider Samson a good example of what you would expect from a Nazirite? 

He was designated to be a Nazirite even before he was born.  It was like he had no choice in the matter.  Maybe he felt rebellious about it.  Yet in Hebrews 11:32-34, Samson is named and said to have been characterized by faith...

"..who through faith conquered kingdoms, administered justice ... whose weakness was turned to strength ..." 

Samson's long hair symbolized not only his dedication to Yahweh but of his strength and power given by Him.  In actual fact, his long hair represented God's almighty power.  What's more, some have called Samson a holy warrior.  He had a sad end but he did stay true to this title with his last dying breaths, if you recall his story (see Judges 16:21-31).

It was a lesson learned the hard way for him.  Although he was supposed to have stayed focused on Yahweh and all associated with being a Nazirite, Samson got distracted and compromised the vow.  His weakness was a woman.  Many of us have weaknesses too that can cause us to drift away and turn away from our godly purpose in life.   Let us be warned by Samson's example to stay true to our Savior and Heavenly Father (see Judges 13:4 & 5).

Father God, so many times we fail You and do not stay true to our holy calling and purpose You have designated for us to do with our lives.  You have done so much for us, help us not to take it for granted but offer up our holy lives to You instead.   In so doing, may we honor You.  I ask this in Jesus' name, amen.  

                                                   ~ERC  February 2024

Based on Numbers 6:1-21 NIV.

Sing, In Christ Alone, along with Keith & Kristyn Getty.

See also:

Nazirite Vow - Part 1 - Introduction

Book Review - Just In Case You Ever Feel Alone - By Max Lucado - Publication Date: 27 February 2024

 Nice rhyming comfort words for young children to assure them Jesus is always with them.  Reading aloud fun.  Cute illustrations.  This would be a book I'd love to have and to read to children.

                                             ~Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger~

                                                           October 2023

Disclaimer:  This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher.

Read review on Goodreads.

Lord's Day Devotion - LORD-dwellers

 There are cave-dwellers and city-dwellers but what about LORD-dwellers?  I ask this respectfully and with reverence towards God.  Moses mentions it in his prayer.

"LORD, You have been our dwelling place throughout all generations.  Before the mountains were born or You brought forth the earth and the world, from everlasting to everlasting You are God" (Psalm 90:1-2 NIV).

These verses seem to connote that one could live and find a place of rest in the LORD.  One could stay in Him throughout one's life time and so could your descendants and so on.  This is because God has remained a constant since before the creation of the world, from everlasting past and throughout time to everlasting future.

To remain in one specific place without moving here or there, sounds restful; no constant unheaval.  To be able to rest in the LORD and He be the anchor and home of our souls is such a blessing and privilege in this changeable world.  Our unchangeable God in Whom we can make our home will never fail us (see Zephaniah 3:5).

Moses found this to be a boon for his soul.  When we believers in Jesus Christ abide in Him, we too can have this solace.  He's not going anywhere so we can depend upon Him throughout our lifetime.  We can depend upon Him to also be that home for our children, grandchildren and for other future generations to come.

When we get to heaven we will still be dwelling in the LORD for the duration of everlasting future.  This future has already begun if we are currently dwelling in the Lord through faith in Jesus.

Praise the Lord all you who trust in Him as you go to meet together with other believers on any given Lord's Day.  As you partake of the broken bread and drink of the cup of wine in remembrance of Jesus in his death and resurrection, give thanks with a grateful heart that no matter if you live in a cave or the city, you can dwell in the Lord, that you can be a LORD-dweller.

Abide in Him.

Everlasting Father God, we lift up our grateful hearts to You, full of praise and thanksgiving.  You allow us to dwell in You and someday soon we will also dwell with You.  We cannot fully imagine what it will be like to dwell above with You but we can get small inklings of it as Moses did.  Thank You for being there for us and letting us dwell in You.

In Jesus' most precious name, amen.

                                                   ~ERC  February 2024~

Based on Psalm 90:1-2 NIV.

Sing, What Will It Be to Dwell Above, along with Alan Parks.

The Nazirite Vow - Part 1 - Introduction (Numbers 6)

 "The LORD said to Moses, "Speak to the Israelites and say to them: 'If a man or woman wants to make a special vow, a vow of separation to the LORD as a Nazirite, he must abstain from wine and other fermented drink...'" (Numbers 6:1-3 NIV)

It's interesting to see that making a Nazirite vow was open to both a man or a woman.  So much in Scripture points mostly to the men, therefore this stands out.  Coming apart for a period of time and for specific reason was to be for the LORD and there is no a monopoly on who could do this.

There are a few specifically mentioned people from both the Old and New Testaments who were Nazirites.  Some were from birth, being either designated by God or by another's vow.  Still others did so out of their own accord and for shorter or longer periods of time.  In such case it may have become customary to commit to the vow for 30 days as seen in Paul's case. 

Time length of the Nazirite vow was not a regulated factor in these short-term vows.  However, there were other regulations attached to this vow making, in general, that had to be adhered to across the board.

Drinking wine or other fermented drink and eating grapes, raisins or even the skins and seeds was forbidden.  The person could not cut their hair; no razor could touch them for the whole time period designated in their vow.  For the whole time period of separation he could not go near a dead body.  If they did, they would become unclean, nullifying the time spent so far and have to start all over again.

At the end of the vow time period the individual would need to go to the priest and he would present the person before the LORD.  Certain sin and burnt offerings were then made to Him and at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting he or she would have their hair shaved off and the dedicated hair would be thrown into the fire as a fellowship offering.

Whatever offerings were made, they were reminded that these were "to the LORD".  It is of interest that they could make additional offerings, and here's the focus,

 "to whatever else he can afford" (Numbers 6:21).

This phrase puts me in mind of two New Testament phrases that read,

"they gave as much as they were able and even beyond their ability" (2 Corinthians 8:3)

and

"...give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion..."     (2 Corinthians 9:7).

These were given willingly and cheerfully out of a generous heart.  This comes, I believe, out a commitment to the Lord and of thanksgiving to Him for all He has done for us.

Backtrack with me to the purpose of making such a Nazirite vow.  The Israelites were to worship God whom they called Yahweh (YHWH).  The vow would help them to focus on serving Him by separating themselves from the world and even close kinship no matter who they were, making themselves holy unto YHWH (see Numbers 6:8).  This was consecration to God by vow for particular reason or purpose.

Being thus consecrated the vow-er could then spend more quality time with the LORD, learning from Him, enjoying His company, being more filled with His peace and dedicated to serving God more fully.  Many of us likely think of our daily devotional times spent with the Lord is good for the day; at least I often do.  Being able to do this all day long if the vow-er was so inclined, would be awesome.  I like to think this way but of course most of us still need to go about our daily routines.  What's more, having commited to such a vow, removing distractions as much as possible so that quiet get-away times could actually be quiet, would be a boon and blessing to one's soul and spirit, I'd like to think.

Busy mothers would especially find quiet time a challenge so it would be good if fathers would arrange vow time for them.  Visa versa, the father being the head of the home and in the spiritual leadership role, it is imperative that he too, seriously consider and implement his own extended times of refreshing and fellowship with the Lord.

Whether from Old or New Testament times, the main idea is, when we belong to God either as the Israelites had (and still do), or through our faith in Jesus Christ, that we are conscious we are separated unto Him and live holy lives accordingly in order to honor and serve Him.

...to be continued...

                                                   ~ERC  February 2024~

Based on Numbers 6:1-21 NIV.

Sing, I Am Thine, O Lord, along with Cassie Thompson (or at least posted by her).

Note:  There are Parts 2-7 of this Nazirite Vow series upcoming.

The Law of Jealousy (Numbers 5)

 

At first scoop, this portion from Numbers 5:11-31 makes the blood pressure rise, at least for me, as a female and a wife.  How unfair to put the onus of a jealous husband on to the wife!!

The unfaithfulness of a wife could be true but what about unfaithful husbands, why is there no mention or law for them spoken of here?  No doubt, I don't deny wives can be unfaithful but with whom is she being unfaithful?  Also, what were the attitudes and actions of the husband to precipitate that unfaithfulness?  Mind you, I'm not saying that that particualr wife was justified in her wrongful actions.  But what about the husband who could be overly sensitive or have obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)?  Or perhaps it was triggered by the husband's own evil desires for someone elses' wife himself.  Shouldn't he pull the log out of his own eye first?

All these kinds of thoughts tumbled about through my mind and made me angry.  On the other hand, I fiercely reminded myself, "this is God's Word - God is a just God."  So for several days these thoughts tormented.

This morning, sincerely and with more of an attitude to 'listen' to God's Word, I prayed and asked for understanding and help.  

"Lord help me to see this issue from Your perspective."

Rereading the portion, yet again, I was able to see that God really was protecting the innocent wife from a potentially overly jealous husband.  The method of detection of truth would thwart a vindictive or obsessive or wrongly suspecting husband and so I began to relax and my anger began to melt away making me to read it all again, this time with tears of gratitude to my just God.

When you reread those verses again for yourself, take note of that wonderful two-letter word, 'IF!'  There are several of them in those twenty-some verses.  

'If" gives allowance that the husband could be wrong with his suspicions.  The 'if' gives the innocent wife reprieve and confidence that the accusations against her will be exonerated.

This wife can stand tall before the LORD at the Tent of Meeting and in front of the officiating priest and her jealous husband with the poise and dignity that comes from truth revealed.  Therefore, she can calmly and solemnly state,

"Amen. So be it" (verse 22),

when the ritual and curse of the Law of Jealousy are prescribed and pronounced upon her by the priest.  The fearsome curse will have no effect upon her.  She can go in peace.

I'm not so sure how the marital relationship will recover thereafter though.

                                                ~ERC  February 2024~

Based on Numbers 5:11-31 NIV.

Sing, Walking Free, along with Micah Tyler.

Book Review - The American Queen - By Vanessa Miller - Publication Date: 30 January 2024

 

This work of historical fiction is based on such a wonderfully heartwarming and true story, the like of which I've never heard of in my life, but I'm thrilled to have been able to read about it in this touching narrative.  However, the former enslavement of the black people in America is never an easy subject to read about, yet the brutality wielded at the hands of wicked men and women was the reality of so many.  It was tough to read of it.

The book details a journey not unlike Moses and the children of Israel's 40 year trek in the wilderness and headed towards their Promised Land.  The heartbreak, yet the victory and happiness despite the odds against resilient people was characterized by Queen Louella and King William as they left the Mississippi area and  headed towards South and North Carolina to make a Kingdom of Happiness, or Happy Land for their own people, was truly amazing.  

Another reality check that even though the American Civil War was won by those who "freed the slaves," the slaves were hard put to be free indeed.  So the outcome of the Happy Landers was indeed moving and I found myself cheering them on till the end.

I like that there was talk of relationship with God, trusting or not trusting Him, forgiveness and enduring faith, and other related topics and issues.  

There are discussion questions at book's end that will enable a sincere reader to ponder more fully on these times and issues that still haunt and raise their ugly heads today.

I feel that author Vanessa Miller has pieced all the bits and pieces together in a very satisfactory manner.  All-in-all, an amazing story and I'm so glad she shared it with the world.

A 5-Star rating from me.

                                            ~Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger~

                                                           February 2024

Disclaimer:  "I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."

Read review on Goodreads.

Making Restitution For Wrongs (Numbers 5:5-10)

 

Apparently, wronging another person isn't just wronging that specific person.  The person is said to be unfaithful to the LORD and carries guilt (see Numbers 5:5).  Does this surprize you?

I know that whatever we do, good or bad, will have repercussions on others but hadn't really stopped to think it through as being unfaithful to the LORD when we do wrong.  Yes, it's sin and sin separates us from God.  That's a given.  The use of the word 'unfaithful' got at me.  As followers of Jesus Christ, I'd like to believe most of us desire to be faithful to our LORD.  So the usage of the word UNfaithful made me sit up and take notice.

Our guilt needs to be confessed and as Numbers 5:7 instructs, restitution made.  The value thereof is not just the basic of the wrong but an added fifth is required.  No doubt seeking forgiveness and a mending of a relationship, at least to a civil degree, is likely a desired outcome as well.

First off is to seek the LORD's forgiveness by confessing our wrong to Him (see 1 John 1:9).  Then go make restitution to the wronged person.  God's word really covers all bases here and doesn't let the guilty person off the hook.   If the wronged person is no longer in this world or in an unknown location, then restitution goes to the close relative.  If that recourse fails, then the restitution... 

"...belongs to the LORD and must be given to the priest" (Numbers 5:8).  

After all, the sin and guilt is actually that of having been unfaithful to the LORD in the first place.

At times we may still have a lingering regret or feeling of guilt especially when we were unable to 'make it right' with a person we've wronged, whether intentionally or unintentionally.  If the person has left this world, I've heard of some people still writing a letter to the wronged party or even going to the grave and talking it out (don't get me wrong...NOT consulting the dead), so that one might have peace of mind and heart.  However, if the person is still living and you manage to come across him or her in the course of life, I believe we can still try to grab the opportunity to seek the forgiveness and make restitution.

Some of you may be thinking keenly on Jesus' words to His disciples as seen in Matthew 18:15-19.  This is coming from a different angle but to me it feels like a similar principle at work.  Perhaps the wrong-doer doesn't realize or admit to their wrong-doing.  He or she has sinned against another but there is due process to make restitution if the offender has a willing, submissive and repentant heart.

If...

 "he listens you've won your brother over" (Matthew 18:15). 

 If he doesn't listen then the confronter takes two or three others and subsequently telling the church.  The wrong-doer will be disciplined and treated as if he is a non-believer, if he has hardened his heart with unforgiveness.

God in heaven sanctions what we as a church, even of two or three witnesses, decide and declare here on earth.  These are very serious matters and not to be taken lightly.  

Going the extra mile to repair damage done to another is termed 'sacred' in God's book, whether it's given directly to the wronged party or to the priest.  This restitution belongs to the other party and it is the wrong-doers' responsibility to give...

"...to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and to God what belongs to God" - so to speak (see Mark 12:17).

I feel we need to also keep God's mercy in mind when we talk about sin, wrong-doing, guilt and even in making full restitution.  As a line of song by Keith and Kristyn Getty goes,

"Our sins they are many but His mercy is more".

God has had great mercy on us who were sinners.  We did not get what we deserved.  Rather He offered us the gift of salvation and forgiveness of sins through His Son Jesus Christ.  We do well to keep this in mind and humbly learn from Him especially if we have been the wronged party.

Thank God for His mercy that made restitution for us even though we were the ones who wronged Him.  Let us be faithful and guilt free in His sight.

Thank You, Father God!

                                                     ~ERC  February 2024~

Based on Numbers 5:5-10 NIV.

Sing, His Mercy is More, along with Keith & Kristyn Getty, Matt Boswell and Matt Papa.

Book Review - Searching for Van Gogh - By Donald Lystra - Publication Date: 21 February 2024

 I found this book difficult to enmesh with as, to me, it felt like there was not much point to it.  That could have been the point though - an abstract, like one of Nate's paintings, where each person is entitled to their own interpretation and perspective.  I was left feeling, indeed,  (tongue-in-cheek here), where DID Van go?

Readers who are art people may have a better view of this fictional narrative.

                                             ~Eunice C.,   Reviewer/Blogger~

                                                            January 2024

Disclaimer:  This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher.

Read review on Goodreads.

About Infectious Diseases (Numbers)

 The Covid - 19 years taught our current world to large-scale quarantine.  This idea was nothing new.  During the 1918-1919 Great Influenza epidemic era (aka the misnomer The Spanish Flu), the people either voluntarily and/or were enforced to quarantine and isolate in attempts to slow and eradicate the virus.  Again, it was nothing new.

The Israelites of Old Testament fame were commanded by the LORD to...

"...send away from the camp anyone who has an infectious skin disease or a discharge of any kind..." (Numbers 4:1 & 2).

It seems somewhat discriminatory to be so rudely shoved and sent away.  But each of us who went through Covid knows and understands the need for isolation; at least the more wise among us realize.

Other stipulations and regulations regarding infectious skin diseases can be seen in Leviticus 13.  There was a process and a determination of diagnosis admininsitered and declared by the Levitical priests.

Thank God for Leviticus 14 that allows for the cleansing of infectious diseases.  Again, the priests would be the ones to pronounce a person clean and to be allowed back into the general community.  

Similarly for the bodily discharges as seen in Leviticus 15.  Certain washings, ceremonies and sacrifices had to be made in order to be pronounced, "Clean" thereby admitting the person back into the general community of Israelites.

Many believers in Jesus will relate this to sin in our lives.  It's usually a case of "give an inch but take a mile," when we allow various sins in our lives.  The consequences and repercussions won't stay small and to ourselves.  They will affect and infect others.  That's why we have verses like 1 John 1:9.

"IF we confess..." [emphasis mine]

The onus is on the one who sinned.  It is the individual's decision and choice to confess their sin.   Then and only then will Jesus,

"...forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness."

The willing and repentant heart will be pronounced "clean" by Jesus our High Priest (It would be helpful to read the book of Hebrews).   Many believers know this as progressive sanctification.

The apostle Paul was also very concerned about 'infectious diseases and discharges' among the Galation believers.  He wrote, 

"A little yeast works through the whole batch of dough" (NIV).

Or as the ESV states,

"A little leaven leavens the whole lump" (Galations 5:9).

The leaven Paul spoke of was false teaching.  The wise and discerning believers were to do something about it as well as addressing the false teachers that had gotten in among them.  They needed to identify both the false teachers and the false teaching before it took hold and spread throughout the whole congregation and beyond.

It may seem harsh to take action and cause someone to become homeless and put outside the camp until further notice.  However, it is the way to prevent further infections.

Remember there were cleansing procedures that would allow those who were infected and/or who may have caused the infections to return to the Israelite community.  So too, for those who are gathered together in the fellowship of believers in any given assembly or church.  

For example, the brother who was referred to, who was sent out of the Corinthian church due to his incest.  Later, in his second letter to the Corinthians, Paul admonished the congregation to reinstate the brother because of his repentance and to not make him grieve overmuch.  In this way, they would affirm their love for the man (see 1 Corinthians 5:1-5 and 2 Corinthians 2:5-11).

Too often we 'righteous' ones will exact every teeny tiny last drop of repentance with an over zealous fervor that is almost manical.  Are we going to be responsible to God for our unbending judgments upon others?  Even, Jesus recognized that the woman who had been brought to Him due to her supposed adultery, must have had repentance in her heart and therefore He forgave her and 'let her go' with the admonition,

 "Go now and leave your life of sin" (see John 8:1-11).  

Our God of grace and mercy shows us the way.

Jesus also didn't ask where that man was who had supposedly been with the women caught red-handed in an adulterous act.   The accusers should have brought both the man and the woman as they should have been responsible to bring him along too.

Don't get me wrong, I don't believe we should let wrong and error have their sway but if we lack wisdom and discernment, ask of God to give it to you.  Have the mindset of Christ, not an unbending spirit of ugly legalism.

Instead, when any one of us returns back to the Lord, may the whole community of believers be accepting of them.  In this way, not only will there be healing from the "infectious disease" but healing of the wounds inflicted by enforced isolation from other believers will take place.  Relationships restored.  How blessed that would be!  Maybe the feelings and acceptance don't come instantly or overnight, but to build up with determined mutual trust.  What's more, our relationship with our Heavenly Father can be re-established.

To God be the glory.

                                                    ~ERC  February 2024~

Based on Numbers 5:1-4.

Sing, To God Be the Glory, along with Northern Baptist Association.

Lord's Day Devotion - Many Blessings (CNY 2024 Special)

 

At this current time of writing, it is the Lunar New Year season of festivities (otherwise known as Chinese New Year).  There is much food, fun, and many family, friends togetherness and fellowshipping going on.  There are lots of talk and symbols of material prosperity and blessing.  We believers and followers of Jesus talk about blessings too and rejoice over what He has granted us.

It is good to recall what the apostle John wrote regarding Jesus...

"From the fullness of His grace we have all received one blessing after another" (John 1:16 NIV).

Because of God's grace we receive His blessings through Jesus.  Not just one blessing, but blessing after blessing.

In life we many often feel there are no blessings due to difficult circumstances that seem to heap upon us one after another.  As Christians we have potential, through the Holy Spirit and God's Word working in us, to discover and discern what kinds of blessings we do have.

We can search for those blessings that are unshakeable and eternal.  Let our minds dwell and ponder on these.  They can become an anchor to our souls as we find that way out our caring, loving Heavenly Father shows us.

Ephesians chapter one names many such of these abundant blessings.  Read and discover these spiritual blessings we have in Christ.  We have been chosen by Him and adopted into His family.  We are God's sons and daughters.

Think upon these and the many more as  you search the Scriptures daily.  What's more as we gather together as the Church on any given Lord's Day to remember all our Savior Jesus has done for us through His death and resurrection.

Partake then of the broken bread and drink from the cup of wine in remembrance of Him.

Give thanks with a grateful heart for the many blessings He has bestowed upon us this Chinese New Year season and for the whole year through until Jesus calls us to glory.

Savior Jesus, thank You for dying on the cross for each and everyone of us who have come in faith to You for the salvation of our souls.  Thank You for Your love and obedience to Your Father's will.  It is through You we have many of God's blessings bestowed upon us that no one could ever take away from us nor separate us therefrom.

Thank You so much, Jesus.

                                                   ~ERC  February 2024~

Based on John 1:16.

Sing, Give Thanks With a Grateful Heart, along with Henry Smith/Don Moen.

Book Review - A Promise - By Amelia Martin - Publication Date: 15 February 2024

 It would be stereotyping to say all Germans were bad pre- and during WWII.  This historical novel gives great clarity to this factor and that many suffered severely under Hitler's Reich' evil rule.  This unfolds in the lives of Elizabeth, Adam and Hannah as they each get their turns to 'speak'.  It is from them a promise is given.

This is no book for sissies as I found a whole range of emotions course through me, from horror and digust to tender moments.  I feel Amelia Martin has captured a most realistic portrayal to those times and the far-reaching ripple effects of Hitler and his Nazis' hate.

I really appreciated how Martin inserted philosphical reasonings, opinions and conclusions via her characters in such clever ways.  The thoughts and feelings of her characters' reactions to the 'poisoned brainwashings' of the peoples and even regarding God and His care or indifference to the plight of millions.

This is definitely not a 'happily-ever-after' saga, so brace yourself.

A 5-Star rating from me.

                                           ~Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger~

                                                          January 2024

Disclaimer:  This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent to me by NetGalley and the publisher.

Read review on Goodreads.

Tabernacle Cloths (Numbers 4)

Dish cloths, wash cloths, tablecloths and many other cloths are useful in our daily lives.  What about Tabernacle cloths?  Those were the cloths used for covering the various articles and utensils used in the Holy and Most Holy Place in the Tabernacle.  These are noted in Numbers 4.  There were blue, scarlet and purple cloths.

It's interesting to delve some into their significance.  Blue, of course, would straight away make you look up at the sky on a clear sunny day.  Beyond and above that our spiritual eyes would be reminded of heaven, our Heavenly Father and our Word of God and His power and healing influence in our lives.

Among all the plates, bowls, jars and dishes for the drink offerings that were covered in blue cloth for transport reasons, was the ark of the covenant, that 'table' of the presence of God.  It's startling to note what Moses and others once saw.

"Moses and Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, and the 70 elders of Israel went up and saw the God of Israel.  Under His feet was something like a pavement made of lapis lazuli, as brignt blue as the sky." (Exodus 24:9-10 NIV).

Keeping in mind that all things related to the Tabernacle and the priesthood were shadows of the real thing that was to come, we can see how God was preparing His people to take note of all things in relationship with Him.  The symbolism, the "seeing" with physical eyes, now helps us with seeing them with our spiritual ones.

The blue cloth, I therefore state, reminds me of Jesus who came from heaven to earth to be my Savior and sanctuary, my Most Holy Place.  His presence is with me wherever I go through the indwelling of His Holy Spirit.

God's presence traveled with the Israelites throughout their 40 years' wilderness sojourn.  They saw indication via the cloudy pillar by day and the fiery one by night.  What comfort that must have been and balanced by the fear of  God, to obey all His commands.  At least, that was the ideal for them until their human natures kicked.

Here's a pause for a think about it thought.  Do I allow the Holy Spirit within me to comfort me and keep me in obedience to the Word of God?

Most of us will be quick to say that the scarlet cloth represents the blood of Jesus Christ which He shed upon the cross for the redemption of our souls.  This is sacrifice.  It showed Jesus' determintation and dedication to His Father's will but also His own willingness to want to do so out of His own heart of love for the human race as well.

God being omni-present and not confined to time nor space was able to be God the Father in Heaven whilst still being God the Son - Jesus - on earth.  It was not a hard thing for Him.  Jesus' humanity allowed Him to shed His blood for the forgiveness of sins and our eternal life.  Praise the Lord!

Then there's the purple cloth, which in ancient times was strictly reserved for royalty and nobility.  Woe betide to anyone else who wore this color!  That person would wear it on pain of death!

Jesus our Savior was the King of the Jews.  What's more, He's the King of kings!

The purple cloths covered, among other related articles, the bronze altar upon which the animal sacrifices and offerings were made.  The aroma of these sacrifices went up to God.  People worship and give offerings and sacrifices to those greater than themselves.  Again, to our Savior King we give the glory, honor and praise, service and our lives, giving our purple (our best) to Him.

Why then must all these beautiful and costly colors be covered up with ugly seacow hides?  Certainly, the animal leather would be tough and durable and therefore greatly protective of all the sacred articles from the ravages of scorching desert sun, sand-papering sand storms and the like.

Also, the Tabernacle furniture was so sacred that if any unauthorized person were to see them, they'd instantly die.  Only Moses, Aaron and sons were allowed to go in and cover up the holy furnishings and articles.  Then and only then were the Kohathites able to come in to carry and transport them (see Numbers 4:15).

The Kohathites would see the dull leather color.  There was no beauty to be seen.  In essence, God's glory or representations of His glory and prescribed worship were hidden.

When Jesus came to earth, He came as a human being.  He had the 'hide' of a human being to hide His divinity.  Jesus was fully man but also fully God.

In fact, look at this verse,

"...He had no beauty or majesty to attract us to Him, nothing in His appearance that we should desire Him.  He was despised and rejected by mankind..." (Isaiah 53:2-3).

People would actually turn their faces away from Him!

The rest of the nation of Israelites would see the Kohathites carrying the Tabernacle pieces but may have said, "What's to see?"  "Nothing very special."  or "Can only see leather!"  They may have then turned away and done their own thing.

They may not have apprecieated more fully the sacredness of all those Tabernacle pieces because of the looks of the unappealing protection.  The glory had been covered up.

Thus, most human beings and certainly many during Jesus' walk on earth, especially the religious leaders, did not see Jesus' glory, or at least, would not admit to it.  Truly, they despised Jesus.

BUT, the eyes of faith see.  They see Jesus - the Son of God.  They see His true colors.  They see His blue, scarlet and purple -ness for He is our God and He goes with us whereever we go.

May the eyes of all who read this be opened to see Jesus and come to know Him as your Lord and Savior, to know that besides being fully man, He is also fully God.  He loves you and wants you as His child.  Come to Him today.

                                                   ~ERC  February 2024~

Based on Numbers 4.

Sing, Open Our Eyes Lord, along with the Chet Valley Church.

Lord's Day Devotion - Go Home and Tell

 

"Jesus did not let him but said, "Go home to your own people and tell them how much the Lord has done for you and how He has had mercy on you.  So the man went away and began to tell..." (Mark 5:19 & 20).

The Lord had done so much for the man who'd been so wild and tortured by a legion of evil spirits.  Jesus' mercy upon Him had impacted him and he had much to tell.  Jesus sent him to tell that message to his own people.

Indeed, Jesus had made "all things beautiful" for that man.  It is good to tell out what Jesus' mercy has done for us too.  What is it?  Do you realize?  Search your heart and mind.  Figure it out then go and tell your people what great things He has done for you.

I've been reading about Saint Patrick.  A biography and some of his prayers that came out of the excruciating circumstances of life that befell him.  (Yes, Saint Patrick was a real figure in history [AD390]).

The abject, deplorable situation he was immersed in, jolted his mind and heart and he turned to God whom he had been rejecting.  God helped him and he escaped.  He then had a message to tell of how much the Lord had done for him.

Each of us can tell such a story, maybe not as dramatic or drastic, but of our own respective encounters with God's mercy.  However, over all, it was because of Jesus' pivotal, unselfish acts of love, mercy and grace when He died on the cross for our sins.  That was the time He bought our pardon and made reconciliation between God and mankind.  We can now shout, "Hallelujah!"

We cannot

 "fathom all God has done for us from beginning to end" (see Ecclesiastes 3:11) 

but we can praise Him for all we know and remember.  It is enough to warm our hearts in grateful praise and to then go and tell our own people whether they be family, friends, or neighbors or some people group on the far side of the world from our own culture.

As we partake of the broken bread and drink from the cup of wine this Lord's Day in remembrance of Jesus' act of love and mercy for us, let us fix our thoughts on all He has done for us.  Give Him our praise and adoration and then go forth, and tell....

Our God and Father, we humbly give you our thanks and praise for all You have done for us through Jesus' death and resurrection.  You have done everything beautifully for us.  We cannot understand it all and so all we can do is give you our thanksgiving and then 'go home' and tell all to others.  

In Jesus name we give you our thanks.  

Amen.

                                                  ~ERC  January 2024~

Based on Ecclesiastes 3;11; Mark 5:1-20 especially verses 19 & 20.

Sing, To God Be the Glory, along with Northern Baptist Association.

Try out this link for a book review about the life and prayers of Saint Patrick.  The book title Praying With Saint Patrick.

They Are Mine (Numbers 3 & 4)

 It's a continued joy to read God's Word - even the book of Numbers - and see God's amazing orderliness.  In Numbers 3 and 4, He is giving further instructions about worship-related practices, especially regarding the Levite tribe who He consecrated for the tasks of setting up and taking down and transporting the Tabernacle, and serving in this work of the Lord.

Being the book of Numbers, there is a lot of counting going on too.  God was counting His Levite blessings - at least the males.  In some instances all males one month old or more, and in other cases, those males 30-50 years of age, who came to do the actual serving in the work in the Tent of Meeting (Tabernacle.).

Why God chose to set apart the Levite tribe for this huge responsibility I cannot tell.  Why He chooses you and me to come to  Christ, I also cannot tell you.  God's thoughts are not ours - they are so much bigger and higher than we could ever attain to (see Isaiah 55:8-9).  Yet, He knows the heart of each of us and recognizes a willing heart of faith.  For example, the difference between Moses, who eventually warmed to his task versus Pharoah who hardened his heart and eventually God hardened it for him.  A heart of faith and fear of God as seen in Moses, compared to the opposite in flagrant opposition to God as seen in Pharoah.  We do well to take heed.

I have often been in awe of the Levites.  The chosen out of the chosen nation to show what relationship with God and service to Him should look like.  Originally God wanted each and every family among the whole nation of Israel to dedicate their firstborn son to the Lord's service.  That would make a big impact upon each family.  Those among the readership here who have children and maybe only ONE child, and a son at that, how would you feel to offer up your precious apple of your eye to full time service for the Lord?

You had wanted him (or her) to be a doctor, pilot, astronomer, teacher, lawyer or whatever.  But God required you to give him for His service, whether at home or abroad, to be a sort of mediator in leading the rest of the nation or congregation or mission field in prayer, worship and instruction of the Lord.

What is it the Lord your God requires of you today?

Stop here.

Bow your head. 

Be quiet before the Lord.

What would your answer to Him be?

Write it down in your journal.  Pray over it.

Not only would you wrestle with answer and follow-through action, your husband or wife or your firstborn would need to be in agreement.  Have any of you missed the mark?  What needs to be done to realign to God's will?  Do I need to repent and confess anything?  Jesus will forgive when you do, releasing you to do His will (see 1 John 1:9).  

Like Jonah who eventually went and did his prophesying in Nineveh or the reluctant Moses who eventually got his feet under him and went to do God's bidding, so can we where we are sent or to the releasing of our son or daughter to be sent.  We are not robots though, so God allows us our choices.  He wants the choice to do His will to come willingly from our heart.  So be it Lord.  It's like Isaiah saying,

 "Here I am!  Send me" (Isaiah 6:8).

Will you and I be counted in the numbers' count of males (and females) in which God says, 

"They are to be mine.  I am the LORD."

May the Lord set His seal upon us as we willingly give ourselves and/or our sons and daughters, no matter how young, to spending time in His presence and going forth to do His service.

Lord Jesus, I humbly bow before You in reverant awe.  You Yourself were given by God Your Father, His firstborn son, sent to earth, enduring the shame and pain, and willingly going to the cross to die, taking the punishment for my sins.  You had been set apart for this.  You were counted even before You were a month old.  And when You got to the 30-50 year age of actual active service (per the Levites of Numbers 3 &4), You started 'active duty' going forth to the towns and villages preaching, teaching, healing, and interacting with the throngs of people.  In the end, the wages of my sin were upon Your shoulders and You bore the punishment that I might receive the gift of God - forgiveness of sins and eternal life through You, Lord Jesus.  Thank You for Your consecrated sacrifice and teaching me Your way.

May I now live such a dedicated life.  May my spouse and children hear Your call upon them too and together, may we ever accept the service You give us to do, remembering to spend time in Your presence and the presence of God before we go forth to minister among the people.  Thank You for making me Yours.

In Your name Lord Jesus, I ask.  Amen.

                                                       ~ERC  February 2024~

Based on Numbers 3 & 4.

Sing, Take My Life, and Let It Be, along with Reawaken Hymns.

Book Review - Murder in the Library - By Anita Davison - Publication Date: 9 February 2024

 

This is a second novel in the Miss Merrill and Aunt Violet Mysteries series.  I found it fun and amusing to 'chase after' Hannah and Aunt Violet as they slyly and coyly sleuth just under Inspector Farrell's radar.

The setting takes place in England during WWII, where Hannah does her bit for the war effort, working in the hospital's library.  This is where the drama ignites upon discovery of a body in the library.

To me, this is a quick and easy read akin to  Agatha Christy's style.  It is a satisfactory read.  

4-Star rating.

                                            ~Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger~

                                                         February 2024

Disclaimer:  This is my honest opinion based on ther complimentary review copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher.

Read review on Goodreads.

God's Orderliness (Numbers 1 & 2)

 

It makes me smile to read Numbers chapters 1 & 2.  Some may think the lists of names boring and I admit it can get tedious.  However, reading the two chapters together makes me appreciate something about God.

God likes things to be done decently and in order.  Look and see how He organized those two million or more Israelites.  It was clan by clan, tribe by tribe and they encamped in certain order around the Tablernacle (or Tent of Meeting, as some may prefer to call it).  When they decamped, the group of three tribes led by Judah always set out first, followed by Reuben's group of three, then Ephraim's and last but not least, the rearguard led by Dan.

The Levites were in charge of the Tabernacle and all things associated with it.  Only they could handle them and with regulated care.  They traveled protected by Group 1 & 2 at the forefront, and 3 & 4 at the rear.

There were further instructions for camping and marching forth but even through this small window we can see God's character reflected.

When you think about setting up your own home or a company, it takes a lot of thought, time and energy.  They are not simple tasks.  How about organizing this nation of Israel!?  Would you like to have tried it?

God did it so well and allowed Moses, Aaron, and the named heads of tribes and their leaders to help Him.  Willing obedient hearts got the task done, decently and in order.

Isn't God amazing!

I like how Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 14:40.

"Let all things be done decently and in order."

Paul was not setting up or organizing the Tabernacle but he was organizing church and its practices.  If you read many of his letters to the various New Testament assemblies, you'll see this.

In this chapter he's talking more about the use of gifts God had distributed to the believers.  Specifically in this case, prophesy and speaking in tongues.  The 'owners' of these gifts were to keep things orderly because he said,

"For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all churches of the saints" (1 Corinthians 14: 33 KJV).

He further stated for the believers to "covet prophesy" but also for them not to forbid speaking in tongues (see 1 Corinthians 14:39).

Sounds like a time and a place for everything.  When we are spiritually attuned to our Heavenly Father, we too will come to appreciate God's orderliness and do things in proper and decent order.

God of Wonders, thank You for showing us Your character of orderliness even in the way we live our daily lives.  You do so love to have things done decently and in order.   You are order.  May each of Your children reflect this part of Your character too, giving You glory at home, work and church.  In Jesus' name I ask. Amen.

                                                 ~ERC  February 2024~

Based on Numbers 1 & 2 and 1 Corinthians 14:40.

Book Review - Praying With Saint Patrick - By Aaron Burns & Matt Mikalatos - Publication Date: 6 February 2024

 

What a wonderful, wonderful book!  I simply loved it!  It was actually full of surprizes for me as I had been sceptical that Saint Patrick had been anything more than a fictitious figure of Saint Patrick's Day renown.  I was wrong and it has been great learning more about his life and sacrifices.  He seems to have been one of those mighty men of God.

Besides the biographical input, obviously, judging by the book's title, there are many prayers of Saint Patrick recorded within.  They are moving as well as helpful especially and specfically, prayers for times of loneliness, great trauma, knowing God's presence and a whole lot more, arranged in categories such as son, slave, student and saint, according to the times of Saint Patrick's life and experiences.

I believe sincere, prayerful readers will find this little volume of immense benefit.  

A 5-Star rating from me.

                                              ~Eunice C.,  Reviewer/Blogger~

                                                           January 2024

Disclaimer:  This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent by Net Galley and the publisher.

Read review on Goodreads.