Numbers 16-18

Things are not good for the Israelites in Numbers 16-18.  Because of their disobedience, they are not entering the Promise Land.  Instead, they are facing the harsh reality of the wilderness, with 40 years ahead of them.  Rebellion is in the air for the Levites, lead by Korah, Dathan, and Abiram.  The complaints spread quickly.  They are not happy with their circumstances, and they question the authority of Moses and Aaron.  They think they can do things better and differently.  So, Moses lets God settle the whole ordeal.  God literally sweeps the rebellious Levites away because of all their sins.  And with more complaining, God sends a plague that takes the lives of 14,700 more men. 

Like I said, things are not good for the Israelites, but God uses the rebellion as an opportunity to strengthen His sacred relationship with the Levites.  The Levites are a gift, and God blesses them, not with land but with that is given to Him.  What a privilege and an honor!  God also reaffirms Aaron's authority as head priest with the sign of his sprouting staff.  

I think about the Levites.  I think about my life.  God's work is hard work and serious business, but nothing is better than having God's hands in all that we do.  God wants to bless our service and obedience with His gifts.

I think more about my own heart.  If I don't consciously fill my heart with God's reminders, His Word, it can be rebellious too.  And like the Levites, that stands true even when I am in the middle of doing something I know God is calling me to do.  

As Christians, it's way too easy to go out into the world, get caught up in circumstances, and lose our focus on God.  What can we do?  God knows that about us, and I overlooked HIS solution for that yesterday in Numbers 15.  I think it's worth pointing out today. 

Tassels on Garments

37 The Lord said to Moses, 38 “Speak to the Israelites and say to them: ‘Throughout the generations to come you are to make tassels on the corners of your garments, with a blue cord on each tassel. 39 You will have these tassels to look at and so you will remember all the commands of the Lord, that you may obey them and not prostitute yourselves by chasing after the lusts of your own hearts and eyes. 40 Then you will remember to obey all my commands and will be consecrated to your God. 41 I am the Lord your God, who brought you out of Egypt to be your God. I am the Lord your God.’”

Numbers 15:37-41

In other words, God is telling us to have a physical reminder of Him that we will have with us everywhere we go.  We need something to look at that will keep us focused on His faithfulness and redirect us as needed.

I don't have tassels on my clothes, but I do have a clutch cross.  It was a beautiful gift at a really hard time in my life.  I carry it with me at all times.  It brings to mind God's love for me.  Every time I look at it, I think about all God has done for my family and for me.  God's promises are right at my fingertips and my praying hands.

How about you?  What is your "tassel?"  Do you have a physical reminder of God that you carry with you everywhere you go?  What do you think about when you look at it?

A prayer for today-

Dear God,

Thank You for Your Living Word, and all my blessings, reminding me of Your love.  I get distracted so easily, and I know I want You to be my focus.  

Here's my to-do list, Lord __________________.  I am giving it to You.  Speak to my heart and tell me what YOU need me to do today.  Wherever You take me, help my mind to be completely there.

__________________ really need prayers.  Be with all of them and wrap them in Your arms.

You are my rock and my redeemer forever and ever, Lord.  I can do all things through You, who gives me strength.

In the name of God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit,

Amen

Blessings,

*This post is part of A Mind-Maker-Upper's Everyday Reading Project.  Click here to read more.