According to our text, a Nazirite is someone who takes a special vow, “setting themselves apart to the Lord in a special way.” So long as they keep their vow intact, they are given certain requirements of things they can and can’t do, including food and drink.
While the requirements are not at all “undoable,” they would require certain behaviors to change making the vow harder to keep for some than others. Especially hard would be times of mourning at the loss of a family member.
The Nazirites had a firm intention of something they wanted to do in their lives as a dedication to the LORD. Nazirites were loyal to God and set apart as sacred people. I found myself puzzling over what some of those vows would have pledged. How many Nazirites were there that they were given a whole chapter in this book of God’s word. Samson was a well-known Nazirite as was Samuel who had been pledged into service by his mother, Hannah.
We certainly don’t call ourselves Nazirites today when we devote our time or talents to kingdom work. Is there a difference? The difference is in the vow that set Nazirites apart from other believers. When we offer to teach Sunday School or serve on church council, for example, our “vow” isn’t as complicated. Does that mean we don’t take our serving seriously? We don’t get the same respect as Nazarites in that culture would have for their vow of service.
What is God’s message for us in this? Ponder that for a moment. For me, I see God’s affirmation that he wants people to take seriously his call to use their gifts for his kingdom purposes. Along with using our gifts, our attitudes should be in alignment with what is best for the kingdom and waiting for God to reveal his will. There is kingdom work to be done, and it’s all hands on deck!
Right now, I feel like I’m in a holding pattern with God. Maybe you are, too. I feel like I’m waiting to move because I don’t know where God wants me to go. The message is to keep busy using our gifts with the intention of furthering the kingdom. God is faithful, and he will direct our next steps.
Have you noticed everyone talking about New Year’s resolutions and making wise goals for the future? What a timely text this is! Do our goals include furthering God’s kingdom?
We’re not called to make a “vow” like the Nazirites. God does want us to use our gifts. I love what Peter says in 1 Peter 4:10. “God has given each of you a gift from his great variety of spiritual gifts. Use them well to serve one another.” That’s what my goal is for every day God gives me to live on this planet circling the sun. I want to use my gifts well to bless and serve others. How about you?
Let’s pray. Lord, may I live my life in reverent awe of you and how you thought of everything. Thank you for the reminder that when we serve you, we honor your name by setting ourselves apart from the world. Nothing compares to your wisdom and majesty. Thank you for loving me and choosing me to be your child. May I be an honorable reflection of you. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
