Bible Pathways 02/11/05
February 11
Read Leviticus 26 - 27
In Today's Reading:
Blessings for obedience; judgment for disobedience; redeeming persons and property; tithes shall be holy to the Lord
The Lord warns His people: You shall make no idols nor graven image . . to bow down to it: for I am the LORD your God. You shall keep My Sabbaths, and reverence My sanctuary: I am the LORD. . . . keep My Commandments. . . and you shall be My people. . . . But if you will not hearken (listen) to Me, and will not do all these Commandments. . . . I will set My face against you, and you shall be slain before your enemies. . . . And I will scatter you among the heathen (Gentiles) (Leviticus 26:1-33). The Israelites were reminded that you shall have no other gods before Me (Exodus 20:1-17). This is the foundation of a right relationship with our Creator and for all true worship of Him.
Numerous blessings were recorded as benefits of obedience to the Word of God (Leviticus 26:3-13). Also recorded were clear warnings regarding sin and disobedience to His Word, which later were fulfilled (26:14-39).
Although the Book of Leviticus was written to Israelites, its basic truths are just as relevant for us today, for the God of holiness is Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever (Hebrews 13:8).
Although the majority of Jews continue to reject Jesus as their Messiah, they will eventually recognize their spiritual blindness, repent, and worship their Messiah Jesus, the true source of eternal peace, just as God foretold. I will bring them again to this land. . . . for they shall return to Me with their whole heart (Jeremiah 24:6-7). The times of the Gentiles that began with King Nebuchadnezzar will soon end and Jesus Christ, the King of kings, will rightfully rule the world from Jerusalem.
The marvelous compassion and love of God is seen in His desire to forgive and restore the sinner to Himself. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness (I John 1:9). Recognizing the eternal consequences of sin, confession is of utmost importance. Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that you may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much (James 5:16).
Word Studies:
26:6 neither shall the sword go = there will be no war; 26:10 store = food supply; 26:13 go upright = walk erect as free men; 26:15 abhor = disregard, reject; 26:25 avenge the quarrel = execute punishment.
Christ Revealed:
As the Tabernacle sent to dwell among man (Leviticus 26:11). The Word was made (became) flesh, and dwelt (tabernacled) among us (John 1:14).
Prayer Needs:
Pray for BP Staff: Karen Hawkins · Government Officials: Rep. Tammy Baldwin (WI), Gov. Jeb Bush (FL), Rep. Ernest Istook (OK), Gov. Mike Leavitt (UT), and Rep. Michael Oxley (OH) · Country: Luxembourg (429,000) in western Europe · Major languages: Luxembourgish and German · Religious freedom · 84% Roman Catholic; 2% Protestant; .1% Eastern Orthodox · Prayer Suggestion: Call upon the Lord in adversity, for He will hear (Psalm 116:1-4,8).
Optional Reading: Mark 14
Memory Verse for the Week: Galatians 5:24
