Blog

In Order. Naughty List

February 25, 2017. Numbers 5-6.

 

Both chapters deal with specific sins, violations, and trespasses. It can be a very depressing reading. The fact is on any given day we are afforded multiple means and opportunities to do the wrong thing; from small, almost innocent trespasses and compromises, all the way to the “Big 10”. Honesty would bring every one of us to the place where we must say, “Guilty”. We are all guilty of some sin, some wrongdoing. (Romans 3:23).

So, what do we do with long lists of infractions like we have in the book of Numbers? Is this portion of God’s Word still relevant for today? Here is the good news about sin - every violation, every wrong, every dishonest and selfish act that is identified in the law and committed by mankind, can be forgiven.

Every offense addressed has the same end; there is forgiveness available through repentance and the appropriate sacrifice. The death of Jesus Christ on the cross of Calvary was the perfect sacrifice for all sin.

It is no longer necessary to live under guilt and destroyed by the effects of sin. Repentance and acceptance of Christ’s sacrifice and payment for sin is enough to set you free and be declared clean and restored.

Read the ending of chapter six, after the sins are named and addressed:

 

6:22-23 Now the Lord said to Moses, “Tell Aaron and his sons that they are to give this special blessing to the people of Israel: 24-26 ‘May the Lord bless and protect you; may the Lord’s face radiate with joy because of you; may he be gracious to you, show you his favor, and give you his peace.’ 27 This is how Aaron and his sons shall call down my blessings upon the people of Israel; and I myself will personally bless them.”

 

Learn the difference between guilt and conviction. Conviction of sin is a just and loving God reasoning with you to bring you to repentance and restored relationship (Isaiah 1:16-20). Guilt is a powerful tool of the enemy to keep you down, feeling unlovable, unforgivable, and useless; this is not true. Look at the law again – God has always provided a means of forgiveness and restoration. He has thought of everything, every scenario and each can be forgiven. You may be on the naughty list, but God has made a way to have that blotted out. Repent. Ask Him to forgive you and restore the peace, purpose, and joy, in your life and in your relationship with Him.