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 (Creator) 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 (Leviticus 26:1-33). The Israelites were reminded that the first and fourth of the Ten Commandments are 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 (26:3-13). Also recorded were clear warnings regarding sin and disobedience to His Word (26:14-39).
Although the Book of Leviticus was written to Israelites, its basic truths are just as relevant for us today. The God of holiness is Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever (Hebrews 13:8).
The majority of Jews today continue to reject Jesus as their Messiah and are eternally lost. Eventually there will be a generation who will 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. . . . and I will be their God: for they shall return to Me with their whole heart (Jeremiah 24:6-7).
The times of the Gentiles began with King Nebuchadnezzar but 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 every 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 rightous 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).
Pray For:
Government Officials: Rep. Tammy Baldwin (WI), Gov. Jeb Bush (FL), Rep. Ernest Istook (OK), Gov. Mike Leavitt (UT), and Rep. Michael Oxley (OH) · for the International Shortwave Radio Broadcast sponsored by Thursday Morning Prayer · Country: New Zealand (4 million) two large islands southeast of Australia · Major languages: English and Maori · Religious freedom · 51% Protestant; 16% Roman Catholic; 3% cults · Prayer Suggestion: Lift up your prayers with a spirit of thankfulness and praise to the Lord (Psalm 79:13).
Optional Reading: Mark 14
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 5:9