READING: Leviticus 8-10
It really does matter that we live like the Lord commands. We must follow Him fully. Completely. Without compromise. No exceptions.
Today’s reading, a text about the people of God ordaining the priests as they begin their ministry, says thirteen times something like, the people did “as the Lord commanded.” One of the clearest statements is Leviticus 8:36: “So Aaron and his sons did everything the Lord had commanded through Moses.” They did all that God required, step-by-step and direction-by-direction. God thus sent His fire down, consumed the offerings they presented, and surrounded them by His glory. In turn, the people “shouted [for joy] and fell facedown on the ground” (Lev. 9:24). That’s what should happen when we just walk with God: we rejoice in His presence.
On the other hand, Leviticus 10 tells the story of Nadab and Abihu, who offered “strange fire” on the altar; that is, they somehow offered a sacrifice in a way God did not intend. In fact, the text describes their actions this way: they “presented unauthorized fire before the Lord, which He had not commanded them to do” (Lev. 10:1).
Don’t miss that last phrase that so dramatically differs from the thirteen affirmations of obedience in the preceding chapters. Nadab and Abihu went against the commands of God, and it cost them their lives in judgment. As the people of God began their sacrificial system, Nadab and Abihu decided to try their own plan — and God would not allow it. He expected them to do His work His way. Period.
The rules haven’t changed for us. We really have only two options: do all God commands, or disobey Him. Even the devil knows that our partial obedience to God is still full disobedience.
We need to learn that truth, too.
ACTION STEPS: Consider these steps today:
- Determine where you’re being partially obedient to God. Confess that sin to God.
- Consider the reality that your sin before God can sometimes have drastic consequences, even as a believer. If you know you’re headed toward trouble, resist the devil and flee to God now.
- Pray for someone you know who has chosen to live in opposition to God’s commands.
PRAYER: “Father, I don’t want to be anything less than 100% obedient to You. I commit myself to live today by doing everything You command.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Leviticus 11-13