God punishes – Be Still…

Numbers 12:1-16 – Disappointing God

Read Numbers 12:1-16

We learned some things about Moses we may have forgotten. He was humble, and God liked that. Matthew 5:5 says, “God blesses those who are humble, for they will inherit the whole earth.” And there was some serious sibling rivalry going on which sparked anger in the LORD. Who should dare to question Moses, the LORD’s favorite and most trusted one?

This text gives us a sneak peek into Moses’ personal family situation and how God responded. Even though this family consisted of Moses, the one God speaks to, Aaron, the one called as a priestly leader, and their sister, Miriam, also used by God, they had problems, too. Why did God call these three to the Tabernacle? God clearly wasn’t pleased with them. Continue reading “Numbers 12:1-16 – Disappointing God”

1 Chronicles 13:1-14 – Moving the Ark

Read 1 Chronicles 13:1-14

Now that David’s kingdom has been established, it seems one of the first items of business are to bring the Ark of God into the City of David. This was a big deal, and it shows us that David was intent on having God’s presence surrounding him in his kingdom.

As you recall, the Ark is the most sacred object in Israel’s ancient traditions. It was an ornately decorated box containing the tablets of the ten commandments, among other holy items. The Ark was revered for what it represented, the presence of God. Exodus 25:10-22 tells us more detail about the construction of the Ark.

Zechariah 11:1-3 – Oracle of Doom

Read Zechariah 11:1-3

Chapter 11 is going to speak to the judgment of God promised against the faithless shepherds earlier in the book. These short verses do not paint a very pleasant picture to be sure but will set the tone for what is to come.

Did you know that the majestic cedars of Lebanon, the oaks of Bashan, and the thick forests are all prophetic symbols of pride? Keeping that in mind, this reading makes a lot more sense and may even speak to us today. That is, if pride is one of those sins that infect your life.