Bible Chapter: Numbers 31 & 32

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
    God is the righteous Judge.  People think they can do whatever pleases them and nothing will ever happen.  They think their actions don’t impact life.  Here we see God judging the Midianites for their efforts to corrupt the people of Israel.  He used the army of Israel to overcome the kings of Midian.  They destroyed the cities and took the spoils of war.  Stories such as this make me think of our modern world.  God’s Word is mocked, and mocked very openly. When someone says the Bible speaks against any actions and reminds that the Bible calls them sin, people mock and say we are smarter today and those old rules don’t mean anything any more.  Sadly, these people will have a rude awakening some day when they stand before God as their Judge.  For those who doubt, they need to read Numbers 32:23 NKJV. 23 But if you do not do so, then take note, you have sinned against the LORD; and be sure your sin will find you out.
    We see another important principle of working together to accomplish God’s purpose.  As the nation was about to enter the promised land, two and a half tribes said they wanted to stay on the east side of the river because the land was suitable to graze their cattle.  When they promised to help the nation settle the land across the Jordan, they were given permission to remain.  However, they were warned that if they didn’t follow through with their promises, they would be judged.  God expects His people to work together and fulfill their promises.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
    The tempter is so sneaky.  He makes disobedience to God seem like no big deal.  He promises that we will get away with it and never be caught.  He promises no consequences.  This is like the person trying to lose weight, and yet they continue to eat “just a little” of the things they shouldn’t.  It’s like the bad joke that if you break a candy bar in half, all the calories fall out.  If I only eat a part of the forbidden thing, it won’t affect me.  But, the scale clearly shows the results in the long run.  Applying obedience to God always works out best in the long run.  Midian found that out.

3.  How can I help someone?
    What’s the best?  What’s the best way to live?  Obeying God.  Don’t make it any more complex than that.