We have a challenging 69 chapters ahead of us. It is normally at some point during these next six to seven weeks that people drop out. Why? Well, for two reasons 1) the laws and instructions are very detailed and can seem laborious and 2) they don’t seem to apply to us anymore (. . . or do they?)
Exodus 25 to Exodus 31 is basically a 40-day conversation that God had with Moses giving him instructions for the Israelites focusing on the construction and furnishing of the Tabernacle including the clothing to be worn by the priests. It’s extremely detailed. Then in chapters 32 and 33 of Exodus we read about what Moses found when he descended from the mountain – chaos. Then Moses has another, much shorter conversation with God and returns to share all of the commands he received from God with regard to the Tabernacle and the Sabbath.
Then we begin the book of Leviticus which is comprised of rules and laws about: sacrifices and offerings, priests, purification, skin diseases, sex, holy days and festivals which must be honored, food which can and can’t be eaten, the Sabbath, rest for the land and the Jubilee year, punishments for sin, cities of refuge for perpetrators of manslaughter, etc.
The book of Numbers begins in the wilderness of Sin with a census of the Israelites and more laws and commands.
Moses’ final book, Deuteronomy contains a re-iteration of the law (If you didn’t hear Bob’s sermon from last week, I suggest you listen to it.
Here is the link: https://secondunion.org/sermons/pro-choice-pro-life/
At the end of Deuteronomy, the Israelites are ready, at last (after 40 years of wandering), to enter the Promised Land!
To be honest, the first few times I tried to read through the Bible I failed. But I don’t want you to fail, I want you to know that this is part of the discipline – and if you just stick with it – relying on the power of the Holy Spirit, you’ll be glad you did!
If you do feel yourself having a tough time, try listening to these more challenging chapters – I can give you websites and apps to use. Or try reading in the Message or the Voice version of the Bible. Just don’t give up – stick with it. I’m praying for you, and I wouldn’t be surprised if you had some spiritual prayer warriors rooting for you as well!
In His perfect peace,
Christie
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