“This rule will stop the Israelites from sacrificing animals in the open fields. It will cause them to bring their sacrifices to the priest at the entrance of the Tabernacle, so he can present them to the LORD as peace offerings” Leviticus 17:5
- I begin to notice a pattern [or rash] of specific frustrations emerge in my daily routines.
- I find myself too busy or unwilling to analyze carefully so I “treat” the frustrations with temporary solutions.
- Frustrations continue to plague me, so I bring it to God and ask for his wisdom.
- God shows me [through a friend, my husband, my Bible reading] the sin I am holding on to.
- I get cranky and decide that I can fix the problem another way.
- I fail.
- I finally decide that God’s way is the only way. I confess my sin (it’s usually the sin of self-worship) ask for forgiveness (which he gives generously) and move forward in faith that the Creator of the Universe has GOT THIS COVERED.
The Israelites, still in the wilderness, needed guidance to keep them from trying to self-govern, too. God actually gave them a specific guideline that would keep them safe from the temptation of trying to make God’s will conform to human convenience.
This rule will stop the Israelites from sacrificing animals in the open fields. It will cause them to bring their sacrifices to the priest at the entrance of the tabernacle, so he can present them to the Lord as a peace offering. (Leviticus 17:5)
My Bible study notes explain that the pagan religions of that time allowed every individual priest to set his own rules; God’s command helped the Israelites resist the temptation to follow the pagan pattern. When the Israelites slipped into idolatry, it was because “the people did whatever seemed right in their own eyes.” (Judges 17:6) They were just like the princess who “didn’t” have a fungus and strayed towards fixing the rash their own way.
I don’t want to waste any more time trying to convince myself that I don’t have a fungus. I don’t want to do things my way anymore; it doesn’t work. Instead, I will remember and believe His promise:
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)
Challenge: When I notice a rash emerge in my life, instead of jumping directly into damage-control mode, I will pause and listen to what God is saying first.
I love this!
Em… Funny, poignant and warm and caring. Centered me back where I need to be. Thanks girl!