TRUTH that Numbers teaches |
ACTION that Numbers invites |
1. Keys for knowing GOD and his ways
Numbers reveals much of the character and ways of G OD. Moses' prayer in Exodus 33:13 should reign in the heart of every believer. Much can be learned about G OD and his ways when we observe his relations with Israel. |
22:32
Know that not every restriction or opposition comes from the devil. G OD often opposes those whose ways don't take Him into account.
23:19
Understand that GOD is immutable, that his nature, his character and his words always have value and permanence (see Heb. 13:8).
23:23; 24:10
Know that GOD is with you. The LORD can even transform curses into blessings and utilize the evil destined for you for blessing (see Rom. 8:28). |
2. Steps toward a dynamic devotion
The devotion that G OD expects from his people is the constant theme of Numbers. The law of the Nazarites and the lives of Caleb and Joshua offer examples emphasizing the type of devotion that G OD approves. They are lifted up as outstanding examples of devotion in the midst of generalized infidelity. |
6:1-8
Consecrate yourself completely to the L ORD. G OD calls all his people to live entirely dedicated to Him.
14:6-9,24,30
Allow the LORD to develop in you the spirit of Caleb and Joshua. Follow the LORD with all your heart. |
3. Instructions for growing in piety
The Book of Numbers offers several important instructions for building up a life that grows before G OD. Holiness isn't something that we achieve automatically by participating in religious activities. It's rather the result of a conscious pursuit of G OD. All aspects of a consecrated life are important, from the attitude that we assume with G OD's community, to the way we embrace the truths of our redemption. |
1:49-51
Honor the ministerial gifts that G OD has given to the Church (see Eph. 4:10-13).
2:2,17
Gather often with GOD's people. Make the gatherings with the people of GOD an important part of your life in Christ.
9:2,3
Regularly set aside a time period in order to remember what GOD has done for your redemption. Celebrate these things wholeheartedly.
21:8
Put your eyes on the sacrifice of Jesus (see John 3:14,15). Trust in his death as a sufficient sacrifice for your sins.
23:9
Live in such a way that others will know that you don't consider yourself a part of the world. |
4. Steps to confront sin
Numbers reiterates that it's important for G OD's people to know how to confront sin. The seduction of the Midianites and the aggressive serpents serve as analogies to demonstrate the vicious and virulent nature of sin. G OD deals with sin without contemplation: the L ORD calls his people to confront sin in the same way. Sin can't be allowed to prevail, but should be eradicated as soon as possible. |
5:5-8
Confess your sins, and make restitution. Your restitution also belongs to G OD.
19:1-22
Confess your sins promptly, and lean constantly on GOD's provision to be purified of all your sins (see I John 1:7,9).
25:16-18
Energetically confront your own sins. Examine your own heart, and repent. Don't allow them to remain or grow inside you.
33:55,56
Confront sin. Every sin that you don't confront can be fatal. |
5. Keys for feeling satisfied
Numbers emphasizes that G OD's people should be content with His provision. Discontent reveals lack of faith in G OD. The L ORD knows our necessities and satisfies them at the opportune time. Faith makes us await that moment and , meanwhile, makes us content with the present provision. |
2:1-34
Accept the place that G OD has reserved for you in His body. Trust that he has placed you there where he wants you to be (see I Cor. 12:18).
11:1
Don't complain because of difficulties. They are destined by GOD to help you mature spiritually.
18:20
Rejoice! Don't forget that the LORD is your inheritance because he has given you his Son and eternal life. |
6. Lessons for leaders
Numbers offers several crucial lessons for leaders. Since leaders serve as examples, the Word of G OD has many recommendations for them to follow. All G OD's people can learn from these passages and gain by their application. |
11:14-25
Share the responsibility of ministry with those whom G OD has placed in your care to make your ministry grow, not to limit it.
20:7-12
Honor the LORD as you GOD in the midst of his people. Never take credit for something that GOD has done through you.
27:15-23
Remember that you are responsible for preparing the successors of your leadership (see II Tim. 2:2). |
7. Keys to relating with those who have authority
Numbers says much about relations with those to whom G OD has delegated authority. Some of the most severe divine punishments fell on Israel because of their rebellions against Moses and Aaron. These incidents offer clear lessons for believers nowadays. |
12:1,2
Don't speak evil of the leadership chosen by G OD. Judgment and punishment are in His hands.
16:1-50
Never get involved in a rebellion against the leadership anointed by GOD. He energetically rejects this offense. Such rebellion sometimes ends with the punishment of the rebellious community. |