READING: Leviticus 19-21
We’re often introduced by our title. Barack Obama is introduced as the President of the United States. Football coach Gary Kubiak is introduced as the head coach of the Denver Broncos (and it’s Super Bowl Sunday . . . ). On a much less significant level, I’m usually introduced as the Dean of Graduate Studies at Southeastern Seminary. Titles seem to matter to us.
On the other hand, we may be introduced by our title, but we are not our title, and who we are must go far beyond our title. I am indeed the Dean, but I’m more importantly a follower of Jesus, a preacher of the gospel, and the husband to Pam. My title as Dean doesn’t define me.
Think, though, about these verses in today’s reading that tell us who God is:
“Be holy because I, Yahweh your God, am holy." (Lev. 19:2)
“Do not turn to idols or make cast images of gods for yourselves;I am Yahweh your God.” (Lev. 19:4)
“I am Yahweh your God.” (Lev. 19:10)
“I am Yahweh.” (Lev. 19:11)
Including these verses, these reminders of who God is occur at least sixteen times in today’s reading. Each occurrence is a call to obedience based on who God is. He is the Lord our God — the One who has the right to set the standard. He is the One who has rescued His people from bondage, the Holy One who provides, protects, and pursues His own. He is who His name says He is: the Lord our God.
Because of who He is, we must choose to obey Him. “The Lord our God” is not just a title to Him; it is who He is.
ACTION STEPS: Consider these steps today:
- Skim the chapters of today’s reading again, highlighting these phrases.
- Pause as you read each one, asking God for help to make sure He rules over all your life.
PRAYER: “Father, You are the Lord my God, I owe you my life. Help me to be fully obedient today.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Leviticus 22-23
