5 Nov, 2021

Burden Bearers!

Numbers 7:1-54

READ –  “But he gave none of the wagons or oxen to the Kohathite division, since they were required to carry the sacred objects of the Tabernacle on their shoulders.”  Numbers 7:9 NLT

EXAMINE – All the people of Israel had given special offerings for the making of the Tabernacle (Exodus 25:1-8). When Moses dedicated the Tabernacle (Numbers 7:1), each leader of their tribe brought a special offering for the ministry and maintenance of the Tabernacle (Numbers 7:2-3). As Moses distributed these gifts to the Levites (Numbers 7:4-8), he didn’t give any of the wagons or oxen to the Kohathite division because they were required to carry their load on their shoulders. Over twelve days, each tribal leader brought the same gift for the dedication of the altar (Numbers 7:11).

APPLY –  Oxen and wagons would have made carrying a load easier; however, the Kohathites had to carry the sacred articles of the Tabernacle on their shoulders. But they did not complain! Life is very much like this. Some of the burdens are easier than others because we have the aid of “wagons and oxen” and the assistance of others. However, some burdens are harder as we carry them on our shoulders and on our hearts and minds. Are you carrying a heavy load of stress and anxiety?  Cast it on Jesus because He cares for you (I Peter 5:7)! Do you know someone who is carrying a heavy load, reach out to them today and offer a shoulder for support!

PRAY – Father God, as the Kohathites shared the load on their shoulders with others, help us to bear one another burdens (Galatians 6:2). In Jesus’ Name, AMEN!

4 Nov, 2021

Speak Over Yourself!

Numbers 5-6

READ – “Whenever Aaron and his sons bless the people of Israel in My Name, I Myself will bless them.” Numbers 6:27 NLT

EXAMINE – The LORD gave Moses specific instructions on quarantining sick or defiled individuals so that the camp or community would not be infected or affected (Numbers 5:1-4). Also, the LORD commanded that confession and full restitution be demanded for those who wronged others (Numbers 5:5-10). To maintain marital faithfulness, there was a priestly ceremony to determine unfaithful spouses and to punish them (Numbers 5:11-31). Since Nazarites dedicated themselves to the LORD to fulfill a certain vow, there were strict restrictions placed upon them regarding their diets and actions (Numbers 6:1-21). Finally, God gave Aaron and his sons a high priestly prayer to use in blessing the people (Numbers 6:22-27).

APPLY – Whenever Aaron and his sons blessed the people, God promised that He would personally bless the people also. The power of healing and miracles ultimately rested in the LORD and not the priest, prophet, or pastor. As I pronounce this same blessing of Numbers 6:24-26 during the benediction, I do it with the belief that God is listening, and God is backing up the blessing with His protection, grace, favor, and peace. Today, speak this blessing over yourself and your family!

PRAY – Father God, just as You promised to protect us especially in these times of pandemic and problems, keep watch over us and our families. May we feel You smiling on us today! In Jesus’ Name, Amen!