R³ Devotional - Day 66

As we read Numbers, we can’t miss on the fact of how organized and detailed God is. Israelites are getting closer to the promised land; God takes time to remind them some important instructions.

Chapter 28 & 29

God commands Moses to communicate to the Israelites the different instructions on how to present offerings to Him, depending on the day or during the many feasts appointed. During the explanation of the several instructions and characteristics, it can be noted how God receives these offerings if done correctly, as a pleasing aroma to Him.

Chapter 30

God gives instructions about promises and states they must be fulfilled. If a man makes a promise, he MUST do it. Women can make promises but under different circumstances, these promises might be cancelled, if is not the case, then they MUST do them.
 
Real: Life Principles

• “With a pleasing aroma to the Lord”: When offerings were done how God had established, and with the hearts of his people honoring Him, His response to it is described as a pleasant aroma. It’s beautiful to read that the description used to explain his satisfaction is not merely an adjective, but an expression that considers the senses, making us understand He was present when the offerings were made.
  
  
• If a vow (pledge, oath, promise) is made to the Lord, it must not be broken. This taught Israelites not to take lightly any promise they decided to make with the Lord.  
  
  

Relevant: Life Applications

• Scripture in Ephesians 5:2 tells us “and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God” Thanks to Him, we don’t longer need to burn offerings with a pleasant aroma to the Lord. He was the perfect sacrifice. Yet we are called be imitators of God, walk in love and as children of light.
  
  
• Making promises to God or someone else is something important, if we fail to keep them, we can be considered untrustworthy. On the New Testament, Jesus reminds us about oaths. Unfortunately, many people throughout time have used promises or made oaths on the name of something or even God and end up breaking the promise or even scamming others. Jesus teaches to avoid that, as a demonstration of our respect to God. If we ought to answer something or a request, keep it simple yes or no and act accordingly. 

Ready: Life Actions

• Walking in love is something we can’t do by ourselves. Spend time in God’s word and in prayer to find guidance and be able to reflect God’s light to others, especially people that don’t know Him.
  
  
• Honor the Lord in everything you do, check your heart before serving or giving at church.
  
  
• Be careful on making promises, especially to God, He will expect we keep them.
  
  
• Ask God that every action you do shows you are a Child of God. Actions speak louder than words. Make every day count for God’s glory.
  
  

God loves you!! Have a blessed day!!