Today you should read: Numbers 31
Good morning Jumpstarters! Almost through Numbers – hang in there.
Today is chapter 31… I know what you’re thinking – this doesn’t sound right – it doesn’t sound like a loving God to allow for – nor to order – such destruction of a people. This is a very difficult passage and subject…
I really can’t explain this to you other than to remind you that as much as God is loving – God is just. He must deal with sin. Before the cross, the people who committed the sin felt the full extent of God’s wrath. Whether that was offering a lamb from their flock, watching the lamb give its life, and be burned for their sin, or paying the price personally through pain or death. The Midianites were wicked people and God extracted His judgment on them through His chosen people.
Why not kill the Israelites when they sinned? He did! Many times through snakes, fever, the earth swallowing them, and more… but remember – God made a promise to Abraham that through them the Messiah would come. God always keeps His promises. He’s sovereign – He chooses and does what He wills.
Why women and children who seem innocent? Again, this is very difficult to answer – but the best answer I can give you is they were a part of the sin and were perpetuating it. Innocent people around us – even our kids – often pay a big price for our sin. Ask a dad who commits adultery… Do his kids pay? His wife? We need to remember this and think hard before we rush into sin.
Why not now? Jesus died on the cross and took God’s wrath.
He made Him who knew no sin to be sin on our behalf, so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. 2 Corinthians 5:21
This is why the cross was so gruesome – God’s wrath was poured out on our sin. Are you thankful for the cross today? Glad Jesus took your sin?
NOTE: If you’ve never received Jesus – your sin is on YOU not on HIM. You will take the full hit for your sin forever in hell. Please consider turning to Jesus today and allowing Him to be your substitute.
By: Tim Parsons — Lead Pastor
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