The resources God has given us to live a thriving life are His Word, Spirit, and People.
Read God’s Word:
Leviticus 8-10
Act 2: God’s Covenant People
Scene 3: The Sinai Covenant and law: God embraces and instructs his people
Background Information: Leviticus 8-10
The priests are chosen to be mediators between God and Israel. They are “anointed” with oil, which is a visible symbol of holiness. Anointed means “chosen” and holiness means “set apart.” When Aaron’s sons violate God’s directions, they violate his holiness. God’s holy presence is good, but it is not safe for those who do not take it seriously. When these two sons go rogue and do their own thing, they are killed. There is too much at stake here; they had only just been given instructions by God and already they thought they could do whatever they wanted. These priests were chosen to maintain the highest levels of moral integrity and personal holiness. Aaron’s sons violated their calling. Aaron was not permitted to mourn publicly. He was not to indicate that God’s actions were anything other than appropriate. From then forward the priests were not to drink alcohol when they performed their duties. Perhaps this was part of what was behind his dead son’s foolish behavior, maybe they were drunk. Priests were to maintain control of their minds to perform their duties and teach the truth to the people. In the New Testament all Christians are forbidden to become drunk, instead they are to be filled with (under the control of) the Holy Spirit. As believers we are held to a high standard; we represent Christ in the world. We are to watch our lives (behavior) and our beliefs very closely both for ourselves and for others. (1 Timothy 4:16)
Pray:
Praise God for…
Thank God for…
Confess your sins to God
Pray for the River Youth. This time next week many of them will be at an apologetics conference in Texas. Ask God to use this time to strengthen them in the faith and draw them closer to himself.
Ask God for… (what else concerns you?)
Reflect:
Write down one passage of scripture that stood out to you today.
Write down why this passage stood out to you.
Engage Community:
Text or call someone now and tell them…
– What you are praying for.
– What stood out from God’s word today.