power of God – Be Still…

Leviticus 9:1-24 – On the Job Training

Read Leviticus 9:1-24

We see now how Aaron and his sons enter the ministry for which they have been called and ordained. I love when God showed up in a powerful way just as Moses had said he would. “Present all these offerings to the Lord because the Lord will appear to you today.” It was as if the LORD gave his seal of approval for what Aaron had done on behalf of himself and others.

Did you notice that one of each of the offerings (except guilt) was used in this opening service. The sin offering was first as a cleansing of sin so all would be ready to be in the presence of God. In the offerings that followed, the people confessed, showed their devotion. These behaviors worked to draw the people closer to God. That has always been God’s intention. Continue reading “Leviticus 9:1-24 – On the Job Training”

Ezekiel 21:1-17 – The Sword of the Lord

Read Ezekiel 21:1-17

Both the righteous and the wicked would fall. If there were any believers left in Jerusalem, surely they’d flee at hearing these words. The sword of the Lord would have no mercy on them. As I understand it, this was not the “final” judgment being spoken of where the righteous are protected. But the words should still be a bit frightening and spur the believers into action.

Clearly, the LORD intended the severity of the sword would draw attention from the world. God wanted to make a bold statement that would reveal his power. Continue reading “Ezekiel 21:1-17 – The Sword of the Lord”

Ezekiel 17:1-24 – A Riddle from God

Read Ezekiel 17:1-24

This reading contains a riddle combined with a parable. Without reading the explanation, I imagined a totally different meaning. So let’s reflect on the riddle and explanation together. Most of us like a good puzzle, but we all should take heed to the LORD’s message.

The Sovereign LORD wanted Israel to understand what was happening and uses this creative approach. The manner in which plants and animals interact as if they are human is entertaining and attention grabbing to be sure. The parable describes the events between when King Jehoiachin was taken into exile (597 BC), and the year Zedekiah revolted against Babylon, trusting in Egypt’s promise of help (588 BC). Continue reading “Ezekiel 17:1-24 – A Riddle from God”

Ezekiel 1:15-28 – What About Those Wheels?

Ezekiel 1:15-28

While we can picture those wheels perfectly, let’s not get stuck on all the details and descriptions no matter how helpful. What is Ezekiel’s message telling us? If we look at the basics of what the wheels may signify, then what’s obvious is how the wheels make it possible to go anywhere, in any direction with ease and grace. Think about it! How much more efficient would we be if we looked at living our lives like that—always going in the right direction. Sky’s the limit to what we can accomplish, even how close we can draw to the heart of God!

If movement wasn’t enough, these darling wheels were also spirit-filled. We, too, can be spirit-filled when the Holy Spirit comes into our lives. I like Ezekiel’s image here, “When the living beings moved, the wheels moved with them.” Just like when we move, we surely hope the spirit is moving, too. Life is so much more rewarding with the Holy Spirit accompanying us. Continue reading “Ezekiel 1:15-28 – What About Those Wheels?”

1 Chronicles 11:1-9 – David Becomes King

Read 1 Chronicles 11:1-9

David wasn’t just in the right place at the right time, he was chosen by God. The Chronicler doesn’t repeat the story told in 1 Samuel 16. So, David knew he was to be king years before Saul died. While waiting for God’s timing, David became very popular as a victorious army leader.

From the start, the people recognized God was moving, and David was following God. That kind of leadership must have looked a lot different than what the people were used to seeing of Saul. It was there at Hebron that David’s reign began, and the people were behind him. What a great way to start!