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 FEB

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2024 One Year Bible Study | Reading with Commentary

Dear God, we are so incredibly in need of your power and your strength. We ask that you would fill us with your Spirit of love and unity among believers all around our world. We ask for your help to set aside our differences and look to the greater cause, the cause of Christ. Please help us to truly live out a life of love. We know that this is only possible through the power of your Spirit, so we ask that you would move across our land in miraculous ways, with fresh filling and awareness, turning your people back to you, drawing others to come to know you.

We need your unity and your love to stir our hearts and give direction to our days. We need your wisdom to guide us, we need your Spirit to lead us, to live out godly lives that would bring honor first to you. We thank you that you are always with us; and give us great purpose and hope. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Links to each month:

Feb

March

April

May

June

July

August

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

 

 

 

 

 

 Links to each day of February below:                          Back to January Click Here

Day 32
Feb 1

Day 33
Feb 2

Day 34
Feb 3

Day 35
Feb 4

Day 36
Feb 5

Day 37
Feb 6

Day 38
Feb 7

Day 39
Feb 8

Day 40
Feb 9

Day 41
Feb 10

Day 42
Feb 11

 Day 43
Feb 12

Day 44
Feb 13

Day 45
Feb 14

Day 46
Feb 15

Day 47
Feb 16

Day 48
Feb 17

Day 49
Feb 18

Day 50
Feb 19

Day 51
Feb 20

Day 52
Feb 21

Day 53
Feb 22

Day 54
Feb 23

Day 55
Feb 24

Day 56
Feb 25

Day 57
Feb 26

Day 58
Feb 27

Day 59
Feb 28


Feb 29

 

 

 

2024-Heart Dive 365 - 365 Days through the Bible in one year with Kanoe Gibson

An enriching journey through the Bible, meticulously studying each chapter and unraveling its profound wisdom. Extensive notes, insights, and reflections for every chapter.

2024 Reading Plan, Heart Dive 365 with Kanoe Gibson. PDF link

 

 Check out Heart Dive 365 website! heartdive.org link


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Feb 1

Day 032 Exodus 7-9 | Heart Dive 365

In chapter 7, God reminds Moses and Aaron of the way God will use them and the hardening of Pharaoh’s heart for His purpose. Through signs, wonders, and acts of judgment, the people will know that He is God Almighty. The first instruction given to Moses and Aaron is to cast Aaron’s staff before Pharaoh and it would become a serpent. However, when Pharaoh’s magicians and sorcerers are able to replicate it, Aaron’s staff swallows theirs. God then begins His series of 10 plagues with the first being the waters of the Nile turning to blood, ceasing all life within it. The magicians once again replicate the miracle and Pharaoh’s heart is hardened. The Egyptians are forced to dig for clean water and seven days pass.

In chapter 8, God warns Pharaoh that Egypt will be plagued with frogs if he does not release the Israelites. Even after pleading with God through Moses for respite from the plague, Pharaoh hardens his heart once again. He is then met with the 3rd plague of gnats, which the magicians are unable to replicate and accredit it to the finger of God. God warns of the 4th plague, swarms of fiies within Egypt, except for the Israelites portion. Pharaoh seems to relent and once again pleads for respite,(relief) but it only lasts for a short while.

In chapter 9, God has Moses warn Pharaoh of the 5th plague, should he not let His people go, where all the livestock will die except those of the Israelites, yet Pharaoh’s heart continues to harden. The Egyptian animals and people are then struck with the 6th plague of boils, but God hardens Pharaoh’s heart and he does not listen. God warns of his 7th plague of hail and sends an unprecedented hailstorm to Egypt, shielding the land of Goshen, where the Israelites dwell. Pharaoh finally confesses of his sin and pleads for the hail to cease. Moses intercedes and stops the hail but states his disbelief in Pharaoh’s fear of God. And as expected, Pharaoh hardens his heart yet again.

Heart Checks from the video

SOFT HEARTS | Ex. 7

In the end, God told Moses and Aaron from the beginning that this would happen—that He would show His power and Pharaoh simply wouldn’t listen. His heart would be hardened.

I don’t know if you’ve ever dealt with a hardened heart, but it is so heartbreaking. It’s defeating. Yet here we see Moses and Aaron continuing to do everything God told them to do anyway, despite knowing that in the short term, Pharaoh will be completely indifferent.

And as easy as it is to read this in disbelief, we too can sometimes be insensitive to what God is trying to show us. We don’t have to be angry to have a hardened heart. It shows itself in our attitude.

When we say, “I’m gonna do what makes ME happy” or “I don’t care what anyone thinks,” then we are right where the devil wants us. Because he knows that if he can get us isolated from what God wants by increasing our desire for what we want, we are ripe for attack.

A hardened heart will lead straight to hell. When we shake our fist at God and say, “I don’t care what you think,” that is grieving the Holy Spirit. That is the one unforgivable sin. Heart Check.

 How soft is your heart? Are you leaning into what God truly wants? Or are you only seeking your own desires?


 TOMORROW | Ex. 8:10

Pharaoh is pleading for the frogs to be taken away, yet when Moses asks when he would like this to happen, he says, “Tomorrow.” Why not now?

If we liken plagues to sin or selfish desires, it’s the same way with us.

Perhaps Pharaoh was giving the magicians one more day to “prove God weak.”

The same way I start my diet tomorrow… every single day.

Because I want one more day to go to Crumbl Cookie and get the limited-edition cookie of the month! Or I’ll fold my laundry tomorrow… only for it to pile up into an even bigger heap. Or some are saying, “I’ll stop drinking tomorrow,” or “I stop texting him tomorrow.”

Sin is deceptive. We think we can handle it, yet when we are unable to turn away NOW, it is handling us. Because sin is pleasurable for a season, but it always leads to destruction. Heart Check.

Is there something you are putting off until tomorrow that God is pleading with you to deal with now?


 COMPROMISE | Ex. 8:25

Pharaoh is trying to get Moses to compromise here by saying, “Fine, you can worship, but you must stay here and do it.” In other words, keep one foot in the world and one foot in worship. That’s what the enemy will do—he knows that if he can keep one foot on his territory, then he actually has the foothold, and if he has that, it’s one step closer to completely destroying you. Because remember, sin doesn’t just suddenly happen—it always starts with compromise—a little here, a little there, until you’re completely out of control. Heart Check.

Is there anything in your life where you are compromising? Or can you say, with full confidence, both feet are on holy ground?


 PRAY FOR ME | Ex. 9:28

The fact that Pharaoh is begging for Moses to intercede on his behalf shows a little bit of faith on his part. He acknowledges the power of God, but only when it’s against him, and then he goes to Moses as if he has this favor upon him to move God’s heart. I think we sometimes have the tendency to do this as well. Heart Check.

When you need prayer, do you hit your knees, or do you hit the most spiritual person you know and ask them to pray for you?


 HEART MATERIAL | Ex. 9

In the end, God has given Pharaoh 7 opportunities to repent, and we see that he only says sorry when he is suffering under the consequences of it.

But he goes right back to the same ol’ stubborn life after that, showing us that a hardened heart is sin.

Nothing God says or does gets through to it. It’s made of stone. And the sorries that are spoken from that kind of heart are not true repentance. True repentance is a u-turn against the things that grieve the heart of God, and it is not based only on the effects they will have on your life.

True repentance is walking away from that attitude, that lifestyle, that person, that thing that is contributing to that heart of stone.

Our hearts need to be more like wax—where they will soften when God brings the heat. Heart Check.

What material is your heart made of? When life gets hard, does your heart follow suit? Or do you soften under the mighty hand of God?


Deep Dive

How do we reconile God hardening Pharaoh's heart with free will?

How do you deal with a hardened heart or persistent disbelief?

What purpose did the plagues serve besides judgement?

What is the difference between persistence and stubborness? What are their effects?

Do you believe Pharaoh was lying or continually changing his mind?

How do you see God's patience on display in today's society?

  Kanoe Gibson's Printable Notes Link


Prayer

Heavenly Father, your power and commitment to freeing your children continues to be on display to us today.

 Thank you for being so merciful and giving us chance after chance to turn our hearts toward you. I know there are people today who are at a crossroads, where they want so badly to go down a road that seems more fun or freer than the one that you have laid out before them. I pray that you will soften their hearts today and strengthen their faith to know that your way is always better. Sin may bring pleasure for a moment but it ultimately leads to our destruction, whereas obedience and faithfulness lead to an eternity of pleasure.

Help us to see the importance of our obedience to what you command and what consequences we may face when we harden our hearts. I pray that we will always hear and heed your voice as we seek to do your will. We acknowledge your might today.

Forgive us where we have sought to prove you wrong or to prove that your mighty acts, signs and wonders no longer exist. We are not the authority to say whether you can and will still do these things today. So may we have an open heart so that we won’t dismiss it when you do something miraculous.

Help us to be able to deal with hardened hearts, defiance or stubbornness. We know that we can’t change a person—only you can. But we can still be faithful in speaking truth, declaring warnings, and loving them through it. Where the enemy will seek to divide, I pray that you will bring unity. But we also recognize that you will create boundaries in order to protect your people, and that still stands today. So where we need that protection from an impending storm, will you cover us in the shadow of your wings.

Thank you for loving us with an unyielding and persistent love despite our disobedience or waywardness. I pray that we won’t only submit with the going gets tough only to turn back to our old ways. But instead, please lead us in the way everlasting, to true repentance, turning toward you and never looking back.

We look to you, our beacon of hope, in this life of uncertainty. Thank you for your faithfulness.

We love you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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Feb 2

Day 033 Exodus 10-12 | Heart Dive 365

Exodus 10-12 continues the narrative of the devastating plagues upon Egypt and the demand for the release of His people. To celebrate their deliverance from Egypt, the Lord initiates the Passover and Feast of Unleavened Bread.

In chapter 10, God warns Pharaoh of the 8th locust plague that would destroy everything in its wake. Pharaoh’s servants plead with him to let them go so they would no longer bring destruction upon them, and Pharaoh agrees to let only the men go, while demanding for women, children, and livestock to be left behind. Because Pharaoh does not relent, God brings the 8th plague upon Egypt, destroying every living plant. Pharaoh repents once again and pleads for Moses to intercede on his behalf.

When the locusts are driven away, God hardens his heart before bringing the 9th plague of darkness. For three days, the tangible darkness could be felt over Egypt while the Israelites remained in the light. Pharaoh finally agrees to let the Israelites go with the exception of the livestock. But when Moses argues that the livestock are necessary for worship, Pharaoh sends Moses away with a threat to end his life should he see him again.

In chapter 11, God warns Moses of his final plague upon Egypt, declaring that Pharaoh will finally relent.

He guides them to ask for silver and gold from the Egyptians and gives them favor in the eyes of all people. Moses announces the fatal and final plague of the firstborn, where every firstborn in Egypt will die, except for the Israelites. Moses leaves in anger and Pharaoh’s heart is once again hardened, despite seeing the wonders of God before him.

In chapter 12, the Lord gives instructions for the Passover, declaring it a day to be celebrated throughout the generations.

The directives include the careful selection of an unblemished one-year-old lamb on the 10th day for each household.

It would then be slaughtered on the 14th day at twilight. The blood of the lamb would be sprinkled on the doorpost as a marker of the Israelite homes—those which would, on this night, be passed over when the Lord strikes down every firstborn in Egypt.

When the Lord executes this judgment, there is massive mourning in Egypt, and Pharaoh finally urges the Israelites to leave. Upon their departure, the Israelites are given silver and gold articles.

In this chapter, the Feast of Unleavened bread is instated, declaring a weeklong feast where no yeast shall be eaten following the Passover. Instructions for future Passover meals are also laid out.

 Heart Checks from the video

 TELL THEM | Ex. 10:1-2

Here we see that God has intended from the very beginning for the accounts of His great deliverance to be carried from generation to generation. He always has a greater purpose beyond just us.

And that intention still remains today— we all have a testimony, and the Great Commission is to “go and tell.” Heart Check.

What does your deliverance story look like? Whare has God moved in power in your life, and you are telling it to others?


LIGHTS ON | Ex. 10:23

This darkness was not just related to the visual or optical senses. This darkness was one that could be felt to the innermost being. Remember, the Egyptians worshiped the sun god Ra, so this would’ve been the greatest blow to their spirits, putting everyone into a depression of sorts. No one was able to get up for 3 days. And this brings to mind the darkness that covered the earth for 3 days between Jesus’ death and resurrection.

All hope seemed to be lost when the Light of the World was put to death. But it was necessary for His light to eternally shine upon those who love Him and seek Him. That light should project in every area of our lives. Just as there was light on in the homes of the Israelites, His presence should fill every room in ours. Heart Check.

Are lights on in your home? Is there prayer and devotion? Are the words being spoken ones of love and grace?


PAYBACK | Ex. 11:23

As much as we live out our faith knowing that God doesn’t owe us anything, we can still see His goodness and the fact that He is just and will get us paid where we may be due. Remember, the Egyptians were overworking the Israelites and most definitely not paying them what they deserved.

But here we see God, in His justice, giving the Israelites favor in the eyes of the Egyptians and doling out silver and gold jewelry before they leave. Heart Check.

Do you feel undervalued or underpaid? Do you trust that God will one day get you paid back?


B.C. DAYS | Ex. 12:2

Heart Check.

Is there a distinction in your personal calendar? What do your B.C. "before Christ" days look like compared to now.


READY TO GO | Ex. 12:11

Eating the Passover meal with their belt fastened and sandals on their feet displays their readiness to go. Jesus speaks about this with the parable of the bridegroom and the virgins who kept their lamps filled with oil were the ones who were allowed into the wedding banquet. We don’t know when our time on earth will come to an end.

But my prayer is that I’m ready when it does. What about you? Heart Check.

Is your belt fastened and are your sandals on? If the Lord showed up today, would you be ready to go?


 Deep Dive

 How do plagues illustrate God's relationship with His people?

What does shallow repentance look like, and what are the conseqences of it?

How can we reconcile God's divine plan and human desires?

Why did God spare the Israelites? Read Ezekiel 20:5-9 and see if your answer remains the same.

What might the greater purpose of silver and gold articles be?

What relevance does the Passover hold for us today?

  Kanoe Gibson's Printable Notes Link


Prayer

Heavenly Father, your power is unrivaled in all earth and beyond.

I pray that we never become so blinded with pride that we fail to recognize it. Forgive us where we have done so. Thank you for your unrelenting mercy and continued commitment to set your people free.

We know that there may be times when people or circumstances of life will try to hinder our worship, so I pray that we will be a people who have a persistent faith, refusing to give in and continuing to press in toward you. Where we may have fallen short of this, we ask your forgiveness and get ourselves up again so we can move forward instead of staying stuck.

Where darkness is engulfing the lives of people today, we plead for your supernatural and divine presence to flood their homes. Don’t allow the darkness of the enemy through depression or hard times hold them captive. Take the blinders off their eyes so they can see you, at least just enough to grab on to your hand and be pulled out. We see the power of intercession and praying for others, so we trust that you hear our cries today. You know the names of the ones that are written on our hearts. Oh God, set them free, and may they live out the rest of their lives in worship to you.

Thank you for your divine favor in our lives. We know and trust fully in your sovereignty, knowing that even though we may not deserve it, you still give us more than we could ever expect to receive. It may not happen on this side of eternity, but we put our hope and trust in knowing that you are a good Father who desires to give to His children. We don’t place our value in what man gives to us but simply in who we are in you, knowing that we have already been given so much by way of your undeserved grace. We know that you are just, so we rest in that today.

We thank you for delivering us from our own personal Egypts—where we were once held down by the slavery of sin or the yoke of trying to do things on our own or the weight this world bears down upon us—you, Jesus, the Spotless Lamb, the Ultimate Sacrifice, laid down your life so that we could be spared judgment. Just as the Passover was instituted to celebrate this newfound freedom, I pray that we never turn it into something that is watered down by social norms of today. May we understand the sanctity and the divinity of the amazing miracle of your death and resurrection.

We know that your providence was not just a one-time thing for a generation of people, but it continues to watch over us today as well. Thank you Father for that.

We love you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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Feb 3

Day 034 Exodus 13-15 | Heart Dive 365

Exodus 13-15 sets up foundational institutions including the consecration and law of the firstborn and the feast of unleavened bread. It also accounts for the dramatic crossing of the Red Sea by the Israelites.

In chapter 13, God commands Moses to consecrate all the firstborn males in an act of remembrance of their deliverance from Egypt. He declares this day to be a memorial with the Feast of Unleavened Bread and reminds them to continue to tell the generations the reasons behind these rituals. God then leads the Israelites on a longer route through the wilderness to Canaan. He assures them of His Presence through a pillar of cloud and fire, day and night. Moses honors Joseph’s final request to carry his bones out of Egypt before they set out.

In chapter 14, we reach the climax of Exodus with the parting of the Red Sea. The Lord leads Moses to an encamp near the sea and warns him that Pharaoh will be pursuing the Israelites. As spoken, Pharaoh’s heart is hardened, and he prepares 600 chariots to overtake the Israelites. Just as this great military force reaches them, the Israelites complain that they would’ve been better off in their old life of slavery in Egypt. Moses encourages them by assuring they need not fear but rather stand firm and trust in God’s deliverance. God commands Moses to stretch his hand over the sea to part the waters so the Israelites can safely pass through on dry ground. When the Egyptians follow after them, they are sent into a confusion and engulfed by the waters as Moses is commanded to once again stretch his hand over the sea to close it up. In witnessing the saving power of God, the Israelites turn in fear of God and believe.

In chapter 15, the Israelites. led by Moses and his prophetess sister Miriam, break out in praise through song and dance. After this praise service, they head out from the Red Sea to Marah, a place of bitter water. When the Israelites complain against Moses, the Lord instructs him to throw a log into the water thus making it sweet. God promises to protect and heal the Israelites if they obey His commands.

Heart Checks from the video

 MARKED | Ex. 13:12

The phrase “set apart” literally means to mark as distinct or special. And the world has marks and symbols for almost everything.

Nations have flags, companies have logos, we all, in a sense, brand ourselves or place ourselves under specific fiags.

We mark ourselves by the way we live. In Romans 12, Paul gives us the “marks of a true Christian,” which are displayed through love, honor, patience, hospitality, joy, humility…Heart Check.

What marks or outward signs distinguish you from the world? Is there a difference?


CHANGE OF DIRECTION | Ex. 13:17-18

The journey from Egypt to Canaan should’ve only taken about 10 days. But God is going to take them on a joyride through the wilderness for 40 years before they ever reach the edge of the Promised Land.

Why did He do this?

We know from the text that He is leading them around the fortified cities of the Egyptians and Philistines so that they do not have to fight premature battles. But just like us, they can’t see what God can.

And there will be times in our lives where God will change direction and lead us in a way that may not make sense. We may have to quit a job we love or up and move to another city, and we will either choose to trust His guidance or we can let go of His hand and go our own way.

When we do that, one of two things will happen. We will either come face to face with battles He was trying to lead us away from, or we will miss out on the blessings that were ahead on the road He was trying to take us down. Heart Check.

If God changes direction in your life today, will you trust and follow?


HANDLING CRISES | Ex. 14:10-12

The fear that the Israelites are feeling is warranted in my opinion. Fear is a natural response to a crisis, and so the fear itself is not a sin.

Where it becomes sinful is in what we do with that fear. Here the Israelites begin complaining and speaking harshly to Moses, even saying that they would’ve been better off living their enslaved life back in Egypt.

Because when we begin to panic, any other place but where we are currently standing seems to be better. Heart Check.

How do face fear in the midst of a crisis or discomfort? Are you calm and trusting or panicked and complaining?


GO FORWARD | Ex. 14:15

God tells Moses, “Enough crying. Pull up your big boy pants and get moving.” Because faith requires action. And while there is a time to be still and know that He is God and a time to pray, sometimes we can get stuck in stillness or we will use, “I’m praying about it” as a means to procrastinate and not move forward. This doesn’t mean we don’t pray. But at some point, we have to be ready to move. Heart check.

Are you still praying about something where God has told you to move forward?


SURROUNDED | Ex. 14:19-20

If we liken this whole situation to the spiritual life, when we escape the enemy, he will still pursue us, especially if we are making an impact for the kingdom.

Some people hear this and will immediately say, “Then I don’t want to pursue God if the devil is going to try and attack me.”

But guess what?

When you’re pursuing God, the Greater Than All moves in behind us, He goes before us, and stands in between us and the enemy. There’s no greater place to be than surrounded by His Presence, knowing that no weapon formed against you shall prosper, or knowing that He will fight for you. But if we run in the opposite direction of God out of fear, guess where that leaves us? Unprotected and surrounded by the enemy—vulnerable and weak—which is the one he knows he can quickly pick off like a rotting fruit on a tree. Heart Check.

Who are you running towards? Who is surrounding you?


BITTER OR BETTER | Ex. 15:23-25

This stop at Marah was a test by God. Some people will hear the word test and automatically be turned off, thinking that testing is a negative thing that God is “doing to us.” But if we understand what a test is—just an inspection of what’s going on on the inside or checking if something works—then we will see it more as an assessment rather than an attack.

So here at Marah, God is setting this litmus paper of bitter water on their tongues to see whether  they’re acidic or neutral, nuclear or at peace. And sure enough, they immediately erupt into complaining. They’re acidic. It wasn’t the water that made them bitter—the bitterness was already there. It’s the same way that people or situations don’t make us bitter. That bitterness comes from within us.

Look at Jesus—He was beaten, spit on, hung on a cross, yet He said, “Father forgive them, for they know not what they do.” Sweetness poured out of Him, not bitterness.

So every opportunity in life is one where we can either become more bitter or better. The choice is ours. Heart Check.

When you get a bad taste in your mouth, do you become bitter or better? Do you seek the sweetness of living water or do you turn to murmuring and complaining?


 Deep Dive

 How can the consecration of the firstborn and Feast of Unleavened Bread be applied to our lives today?

What practical ways can we “remember God” today?

Have you ever had a “Red Sea” (what seemed to be impossible) moment in life?

What are ways you can “be still” or “hold your peace” in today’s busy society?

What does God’s response to the Israelites grumbling display about His character?

What does the resting and provision at Elim symbolize for God’s ultimate plan?

  Kanoe Gibson's Printable Notes Link


Prayer

Heavenly Father, I pray that we will live our lives in constant remembrance of you?

 We trust in your divine guidance and recognize that you are constantly assuring us through your Word and by your Presence. I pray that we stay close to your comfort, always within your warm embrace, and walking only where you are illuminating our path.

We know that sometimes you will change directions and lead us in a way that doesn’t make sense or maybe takes a little longer than we desire. But we know that you see things that we can’t. We trust that as you lead us through the wilderness seasons of life, there are lessons to be learned along the way that will prepare us for the day we do enter into the promise that you have laid out before us.

Thank you for setting us free, Jesus. It is by your redeeming blood that our spirits can dance and run this race with vigor. We can worship with abandon, knowing that this life is far better than the one we were living in our Egypt. I pray that you will continue to rid us of our old ways, knowing that they will hinder us from walking in that freedom that you so desire for us.

I pray that we will always bring our first and best to you in everything we do. We don’t do it because we feel that it is a debt to be paid, but because you are worthy of it.

Thank you for saving us out of what seems to be impossible situations. There are times in our lives when we know our backs are up against the wall or we see no way out or through the storm. Yet you somehow make a way. You go before us, stand behind us, and surround our enemy when he pursues. Thank you for your great providence and protection. I pray that we never forget our Red Sea moments in life and never forsake the opportunity to bring you glory through it.

I pray that when we do face these moments, that we will immediately turn to you for guidance rather than complain or look back at what used to be. We know that forward is the only direction you want us to go, so when it’s time to move, I pray that we will be faithful to start walking in faith. May we never delay or get stuck in the stillness or seasons of hiding in prayer. You have given us a spirit of power, of love, and of a sound mind, so I pray that when you say, “Go,” we will pull up our big kid pants and march forward. We fully trust that you will not lead us into a path of destruction but will light the way to freedom.

We praise and exalt you today, for you are our strength and song. Our Mighty God, who casts the enemy into the sea, crushing his head, and shattering his plans. Forgive us when we have failed to trust you in the moments where we were face to face with him.

 I pray that we will not allow bitterness to fester within us when we come up against tough situations in life. When you test our battery, I pray that our faith will prove to be in solid working order. Rather than complaining about people or things, may we instead turn to drink of your Living Water, so that we will be able to hold our peace. We know that in doing so, it will lessen the stress in our lives and promote healing within our spirits and physical bodies.

We know that sometimes you will allow bitterness into our lives because without it, we will only crave sweets. And while it tastes good at the moment, it’s not nourishing to our souls.

Where others may have wronged us, I pray that we will see those things nailed to the cross, just as our sins have been. You’ve already dealt with it, so we don’t have to. You are just, so we don’t need to seek justice. You will fight for us, just as you have promised.

For those who may be fighting sickness today, we cry out to you, Jehovah Rapha, our healer. We believe in your ability to heal and trust that you will get the glory through it all. I pray that we will never lose hope and continue to hold on to your healing hands.

Thank you for the sweetness of your word today. May it strengthen our faith in every way.

We love you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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Feb 4

Day 035 Exodus 16-18 | Heart Dive 365

Exodus 16-18 marks the beginning of the Israelites’ 40-year journey into the wilderness. The complaints of the Israelites lay the foundation for God’s divine provision of manna and the institution of the Sabbath day. The Israelites face their first battle against the Amalekites, and Moses is reunited with his wife Zipporah and his two sons.

In chapter 16, the Israelites head out into the wilderness where they complain about the lack of food. God promises to provide both meat and bread from heaven. He instructs them to gather their daily provisions of the manna for six days, doubling their gathering and cooking on day six, so they can rest on the Sabbath. That night, the Lord covers their camp with quails and brings the manna in the morning. While they are instructed to leave no leftovers, some disobey and experience rotting of the manna. Others disobey by gathering on the Sabbath, and the Lord commands this day to be observed as a holy day of rest. The manna becomes a staple in the Israelites diet for 40 years, the length of time they are in the wilderness.

In chapter 17, the Israelites move to their next encampment in Rephidim, where there is no water. As the Israelites grumble against Moses once again, God commands Moses to strike a rock at Horeb, where water would fiow for them. Moses names this place Massah or Meribah, meaning testing or quarreling. The Amalekites become the first to attack Israel unprovoked, and Moses commands Joshua to lead the battle against them as he would stay on the hilltop and lift his hands in prayer. As he grows weary, so does Israel. But as Aaron and Hur lift up his arms, Israel prevails. The Lord instructs Moses to write this victory as a memorial, and he builds an altar to the Lord called “The Lord is My Banner.”

In chapter 18, Moses’ father-in-law Jethro reunites Moses with his wife Zipporah and his two sons Gershom and Eliezer. Jethro acknowledges that the Lord is greater than all other gods and brings a burnt o£ering and sacrifices in celebration of Israel’s deliverance. As Jethro witnesses Moses judging all the disputes among the people, he advises Moses to delegate these matters to other able God-fearing men who are trustworthy of the role as judge. Moses listens and obeys Jethro before Jethro departs back to his homeland.

Heart Checks from the video

 QUICK RELEASE | Ex. 16:2-3

Do you own an Instapot?

If so, you know that you can either allow the pressure to slow release on its own or if you don’t have the patience to wait, you can fiip the knob to quickly release all the pressure that’s built up.

That’s what the Israelites have opted for here. In this moment of feeling like they’re being cooked in a pressure cooker, they start grumbling and complaining once again, dreaming of the good ol’ days of slavery when they apparently were having potlucks with stews and homemade breads—although I’m pretty sure that’s an infiated thought in their minds. So rather than trusting in God and just holding on for a little bit longer, they allowed the pressure to send them looking for the escape hatch.

 Heart Check.

When you are under pressure, do you look for the quick escape? Or do you hold on, trusting God's release?


BREAD OF LIFE | Ex. 16:14-16

In John 6 Jesus will compare Himself to manna, when He declares Himself to be the bread of life. He is our daily bread, giving us just what we need. And we get that through the Word, for in the beginning, there was the Word, and the Word was with God and the Word was God. Jesus came to the earth as the Word made fiesh. It is here where we receive everything we need for what we will be facing.

And oftentimes, you will find that when you are in the Word daily, as you go throughout your day, the very thing that you read is the very thing you deal with. But some of us will read the Word and walk away still searching for the quail, as if it isn’t enough to satisfy our soul. Heart Check.

Is the word satisfying your cravings in life? Or are you still seeking quail?


DAILY QUOTAS | Ex. 16:18

God gave them exactly what they needed.

Those who had a small appetite, gathered a small amount. Those who needed a little more fuel, He provided more. And while we are on the subject of the Word being our manna, I want to take a second to speak to those who may be feeling a little overwhelmed with how quickly we are moving through the Bible or how much we are taking in each day, or even for those who feel as though they have fallen behind. We have to remember that while reading the Bible in a year is a wonderful goal and can be beneficial, it is also not required by God.

It isn’t even recommended.

So for some, you may need to stop when you begin to feel full. Because the Word of God is meant to be meditated upon, chewed on, and it is intended to develop your relationship with Christ. This isn’t speed dating. So if you need to take two years, five years, whatever it takes to finish, then take it. God wants our hearts, not our agendas, and we are not going to receive an extra prize for checking all the boxes or answering all the heart checks and deep dive questions. So I’m saying this to relieve a little bit of pressure.

The most important thing is that you walk away from studying the Word knowing Him more, not knowing more words. If we bulldoze beyond that, there’s a tendency to bury those words. On the fiipside, there are others who are in a di£erent place where they can rise to this challenge and grow in their relationship because of it by going a little deeper.

So what I’m saying is, take in your fill of the manna and don’t try to overindulge just to meet a quota. Trust in His timing and in His provision for you and your journey. You’re not being left behind if you pause. Look at it as you’re way ahead of those who are just starting day 1 today, or way ahead of those who won’t even start until next year. You’re right where God wants you. Heart Check.

Is your gathering of the daily bread being done with the heart to be nourished or to simply meet a quota?


OVEREATING | Ex. 16:20

Once again, here we see that when too much is gathered, what is leftover becomes a stench. It’s like going to a bu£et—where you fill your plate with all the things and that first bite is the best thing you’ve ever tasted, but by the time you reach the end of that meal, you need a wheelchair to get out of the restaurant.

Your stomach hurts, and you swear o£ eating for the rest of the week because nothing could possibly taste good anymore. And overindulging on the Word can be the same way if we’re not giving it time to digest or not applying it in a way that gives it an outsource. If we’re only consuming all the time and not pouring out in service to others, we will become so full that we become insensitive—the Word doesn’t taste as sweet as it once did.

Or we begin to criticize others. I know people who make a living right here on YouTube just criticizing pastors and ministries all day, and if you go in the comment section of those videos, it’s just an echo chamber of self-righteousness and hatred. And I think, how did we get here? I realized that I was there at one time—that’s how I know about the videos.

I was consuming so much that I ended up in an unhealthy place. But when you’re living out your life to pour goodness into the world, you don’t have time for that kind of nonsense. Imagine how much more good we could do if we spent time applying the Word that we are consuming instead of overeating to the point of dissatisfaction. Heart Check.

What are you doing with the Word you're consuming? Is there an outsource? Or are you just filling up only for youself?


DROUGHT | Ex. 17:2

God has just filled the Israelites up on manna, and because they’re on the move, they’re getting pretty dehydrated.

So why would God take them to a place where the water fountain is “INOP” (inoperable/inoperative)?

It’s so that we will thirst for more and recognize that sometimes it takes that thirst to get us to the proper source of drinking—the well that never runs dry.

But as we will see, sometimes we gotta knock on the rusty pipes (Jesus is not rusty, but sometimes we may need to knock on the door and let Him know we’re back) to get that water fiowing again. Heart Check.

Is there a drought in your spirit? Are you seeking the right source to quench it?


LIFTING ARMS | Ex. 17:12

This is one of my favorite pictures in the Bible. The lifting of hands is a posture of prayer.

And whether or not that is what Moses was doing (I believe it was), he still grew weary and needed others to come and lift up his arms so that they could continue to wage war.

We need other people in our corner to lift us up when we grow weary. And there will be di£erent people in di£erent corners.

But guess what?

We are also to be the ones in other people’s corners. It goes both ways. You will see that when you can get into the corner with others, the battles are much easier to wage together, especially in prayer. Heart Check.

Who is lifting your arms? Whose arms are you lifting?


 Deep Dive

 What does grumbling or complaining refiect in a person’s faith?

How can the provision of manna and quails be applied to your life?

What is your view of the Sabbath? Is there still a benefit in honoring it today?

What can we learn from the way Moses responds to the Israelites’ grumbling?

Do you see yourself as more of a leader or one who supports leadership?

  Kanoe Gibson's Printable Notes Link


Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank you for your divine and unwavering provision.

 We not only have everything we need at just the right time in this life, but you give us, through your Word, direction and strength when we don’t know which way to go or how we’re going to get there. I pray that throughout our own life’s journey, that you will help us to trust in your plan and to depend upon your provision.

Forgive us where we couldn’t see beyond our temporary hunger for more or where our vision of our past was skewed to the point that we have thought what was behind us was better than what is ahead of us. Because you want us moving forward and never backward, and because you desire the best for us, we will trust that what is ahead is far greater than anything that’s behind.

Thank you for the daily manna that you provide to us each and every day. I pray that we will hear this directive today to gather exactly what we need and won’t overindulge or try to eat beyond our capacity. We can fill up on the Word and still never know you at the end of this life. So I pray that when we come here to read, study, and listen to your voice, that it will be for the purpose of knowing you more and then pouring out into others, in obedience to the Great Commission. We can’t make disciples of nations without knowing what that means. So help us to find that healthy balance and correlation between knowledge and wisdom and relationship with you.

Thank you Jesus for being our rest, but I pray that we will also understand the importance of physical rest as well. You modeled it so perfectly for us, so where there is the conviction to honor the Sabbath, I pray we will be obedient, but each one convinced in their own mind, according to your word. Let this not be a point of contention within the church—I pray you will reveal your truth to us so that we can remain united instead of divided over theological arguments.

I pray that when we come upon times of hungering and thirsting, that we will look to you as our source. Where things may not be going the way we had hoped, give us the patience and also the ability to be an asset and a problem solver rather than simply resorting to filing a complaint.

If we can’t contribute, may we always check our hearts and the motive behind the correction, and whether it is for edification or simply to just release some pressure or argue a point.

May we seek your guidance always. Forgive us where we have been critical of others, especially those in the faith, for we know that when we come against one another, it can actually be an act of coming against you.

Help us to be in other people’s corners and lift one another’s hands through encouragement and prayer. We know that it is in prayer where battles are truly won, for we do not fight against fiesh and blood but against powers and principalities of a dark and evil world. But we know that we can always sit under your banner, Jehovah-Nissi, knowing that you ultimately fight for us.

Thank you Lord for showing us your heart for families to be restored. Where we have played a part in the breaking apart of our own families, I pray that we will take on your heart of reconciliation, forgiveness, and restoration. I pray for the reuniting of loved ones today and clean slates as they move forward together. Your word says that what God has brought together, let no man separate, and that includes us.

I pray that we will be humble like Moses, especially in the way that we honor one another. Help us to have a teachable spirit but also one that is growing in the ability to lead others well.

I pray for those who do have the gift of leadership, that you will help them to grasp the Biblical model of what that looks like, knowing that we cannot be a one-man show, but we need others to help carry the burden. I pray that you will bring them exactly who they need to fill in the gaps. Show us how to delegate and give us discernment on who to give responsibilities to. But I pray that we will all have a collaborative spirit, always working with one another and never against.

We love you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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Day 036 Exodus 19-21 | Heart Dive 365

Feb 5

Exodus 19-21 marks one of the most monumental portions of the Old Testament, where God establishes His covenant and Laws for the Hebrew people.

In chapter 19, the Israelites arrive at and encamp before Mt. Sinai, where the Lord calls Moses up to the mountain to establish His covenant with the Israelites. God calls for the people to consecrate themselves, as He will meet with them in 3 days. However, the people were to remain at the base and not touch the mountain, lest they be put to death. On the 3rd day, the Lord descends on the mountain with thunder, lightning, and a loud trumpet blast, calling Moses to the top of the mountain. God tells Moses to go back and give warning to the people about being properly consecrated, and Moses brings Aaron with him back to the top with him.

In chapter 20, God gives Moses the 10 Commandments, which include the sole worship of God, the commandment against idolatry, using the Lord’s name in vain, murder, adultery, theft, bearing false witness, and covetousness, and a call to honor the Sabbath day and our parents. When the Israelites become fearful, Moses reassures them that God’s heart desires reverence and obedience. God gives directives on how to build an altar, focusing on its simplicity and modesty in worship.

In chapter 21, God sets rules in response to social issues facing the Israelites including the treatment of Hebrew slaves and the duration of their servanthood. God also sets in place capital punishment for murder, kidnapping, and cursing parents as well as compensation for injuries as modeled by the “eye for an eye” law of retaliation. Liabilities are set in place for injuries or death caused by neglect.

Heart Checks from the video

 ON COURSE | Ex. 19:8

These are some pretty heavy words: " All that the Lord has spoken we will do"

To me, this sounds like they’re setting themselves up for failure. But we do this—we make empty promises all the time, telling God that if He will just help us this once, we will change.

Or we make a resolution to be different and then we fall backwards. Because we’re human and we all fall short—we miss the mark.

But where sin abounds, grace abounds more, so it’s important for us to come back when we realize we’re of course. Heart Check.

Have you kept your end of the bargain you made with God? Where might there need to be some steering back on course?


CONSECRATE | Ex. 19:10

The Lord tells Moses to have the people consecrate themselves, which would mean to make ready for this meeting with God. They would need to brush their teeth and wash their clothes in a sense—it was an outward expression of an inward readiness.

And thank God, that because of what Jesus did on the cross, we don’t need to “clean up” before coming into His presence. It’s kind of like how your spouse loves you in all your mess, with no makeup, and with stinky morning breath. However, when we go on dates, we don’t go in our pajamas and bedhead.

We get ready!

So when we meet with God, there is a readiness that should take place to ready our minds and spirit so that our time spent with Him is unhindered.

That will look di£erent for everyone—if I’m being honest, I come with pajamas and bedhead, but I ready my spirit in prayer.

I typically won’t answer phone calls or text messages, and I have a notepad next to me to write down any to dos that pop in my mind so I won’t get distracted. Heart Check.

How do youready your mind and spirit before coming into God's presence?


IDOLATRY | Ex. 20:3-6

It’s easy for us to think we don’t practice idolatry if we aren’t putting up shrines or creating golden calves.

But it is still very much alive in today’s society.

If we look at what idolatry is—it is anything that becomes a god in your life, meaning it controls your thoughts and emotions, it consumes your energy, you become obsessive over it. It’s essentially anything that takes center stage in your life, where God should be. It’s where you’re devoting most of your time, thoughts and energy.

These things aren’t inherently bad, but what we do with them is where it becomes an issue.

So if we look at some modern day idols, it could be money, success, or job, our identity, our physical image, hobbies, entertainment, technology, relationships, even ministry or our own families and children. Because we can sometimes be more consumed with the gift itself than the Giver of those gifts. We look to these things to bring just joy and happiness, where only God can. We put our trust in them, only to be let down because only God is truly trustworthy. We look to these things for our identity or validation and when we don’t get it, we feel unworthy.

It’s anything that we love more than or hold higher than God. And the Bible says to fiee from idolatry—that doesn’t mean we fiee from the thing itself but rather the way we treat it. Heart Check.

 Is there anything in your life that has become an idol? How can you redirect this gift to be honorable to God?


 Deep Dive

 Why would God set such harsh boundary lines between Himself and the people?

How does God’s covenant with Israel apply to us as Christians?

How do you view God’s majesty, power and holiness? How has it been watered down or treated casually?

How do you view the 10 Commandments? As archaic? Or still relevant? Do you struggle with any in particular?     

In looking at each commandment, how do you see God’s love and protection on display?

How do you view God’s heart behind the Laws of Moses? How have they shaped our ethics and societal morals?

  Kanoe Gibson's Printable Notes Link


Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank you for the boundaries you have set up to protect us as your children.

 What a privilege it is to live in a time when we can freely come into your presence without fear of stepping into something that we aren’t prepared for. You allow us to come as we are, and we are so grateful for that. But I pray that we never take your holiness and majesty for granted. Because none of that has changed—you are still as mighty as ever and your glory is still untouchable, yet because of what Jesus did, we have the keys to heaven and we need not fear.

 We know that you value us just as much as you do the Hebrew people, as we have been grafted into the promises you have given them like wild olive branches. We are, therefore, your treasured possession and have the same calling to holiness and obedience. I pray that we will live out our lives in reverence and obedience to all of your commands.

While we may not have a visible display of your glory or an audible sound of your voice, we see and hear you just as clearly as they. We are so grateful that we have the Word that we can apply in modern day. We stand in awe of you today, knowing that everything we read is not fiction or fairytale.

We know that while we are not held to the Law of Moses, we are held to an even higher standard of love, which is where every single one of your commandments birthed from. Because you love us, you desire to keep us safe. Because you love us, you have set up boundaries so we can fiourish. I pray that we will have an even greater understanding of that—that you never imposed anything to limit but rather to set free your people. We know that a life of obedience will lead to freedom whereas disobedience will lead to bondage.

I pray that every area of our lives will center around you. Forgive us where we may have created an idol out of something. If we don’t realize we have, will you show us where we may be holding something in higher regard that we should. I pray that we are able to reroute these things to be able to bring you glory.

I pray that we will always pursue a life of honesty, integrity, honor, and high morals. May we live a consecrated, distinct and set apart life that radiates your goodness and glory. I pray that we will be positive contributors to society, imparting good where we live, work and play.

We fully trust in your unwavering commitment to justice, therefore we don’t need to seek out vengeance, for we know how much you value the fair treatment of others. We know it doesn’t always happen, for we live in a broken world. But one day, every wrong will be made right, so help us to keep our heads down and focus on doing what we can to help maintain the social order that you so desire.

We love you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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Day 037 Exodus 22-24 | Heart Dive 365

Feb 6

Exodus 22-24 continues to lay out specific case laws and restitution, principles of holiness and annual feasts, and the agreement upon God’s covenant with His people.

In chapter 22, God sets up guidelines and laws surrounding theft, irresponsibility, sorcery, beastiality, idolatry, and the mistreatment of virgins, widows and children, foreigners, and the poor. Israel was called to be a compassionate people. Good institutes specific punishments including restitution and capital punishment.

In chapter 23, God continues to give commandments regarding the personal actions of His people including not spreading false information, not perverting justice, not showing partiality, and not taking bribes. He commands them to treat their enemies, sojourners, and the poor with fairness and kindness. He also institutes the Sabbath Year, the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the Feast of Harvest, and the Feast of Ingathering. He introduces the concept of a “clean diet” through the prohibition of cooking a young goat in its mother’s milk. God then promises a gradual conquest of the Promised Land along with His protection from their enemies and sickness. He ends with a warning against idolatry once again.

In chapter 24, God establishes His covenant with the people of Israel at Mt. Sinai. He calls Moses, Aaron and his two sons Nadab and Abihu, along with 70 elders to worship from afar. When Moses speaks the words of the Lord to the people, they profess they will obey everything He says. Moses builds an altar and performs a covenant ritual of the sprinkling of blood on the altar and the people. As the men go up the mountain, they see an appearance of God and celebrate in a fellowship meal. The Lord calls Moses to come near, and Joshua accompanies him up while Aaron and Hur are left to watch and be judges over the assembly at the bottom. God promises to give Moses the two tablets that contain God’s commandments and laws. Moses enters into a cloud of the glory of God that covers the mountain for six days. After he is called out by God, His glory appears as fire for all the people to see at the top of the mountain. Moses enters the cloud once again and does not return for 40 days.

Heart Checks from the video

 IRRESPONSIBILITY | Ex. 22:5

Here we see God putting a value on personal responsibility and accountability. We don’t always have to be present for sin to occur.

Because James 4:17 says that anyone who knows the right thing to do and doesn’t do it, sins. So if we are negligent or careless when we are supposed to be good stewards and careful about the way we conduct business, then there will be accountability. Heart Check.

Is there anything in your life that you are neglecting to care for or where you are being irresponsible?


WHAT’S THE DELAY | Ex. 22:29-30

Here we see God commanding a promptness in giving to Him what is rightfully His.

And because He is speaking about the fullness of the harvest and the firstborn, this could be applied to the tithe. But in general, it’s simply quick obedience. As we just discussed, when we know we are to do something or bring an offering, and we don’t do it, it is sin.

Now an added layer of promptness has been added to that. Heart Check.

Is there anything that God has asked of you that you have not brought to Him? What's the delay?


GOSSIP | Ex. 23:1

Spreading false information or speaking with malicious intent toward someone was prohibited by God.

To put it plainly, there is no “gossip girling” in the kingdom.

And the one spreading the gossip isn’t the only one at fault, it’s also the one who listens and has an ear that itches to hear all the juicy details. Heart Check

Do your ears perk up when there's gossip? Are you speaking behind others backs?


RETURN THE DONKEY | Ex. 23:4-5

This was a society where revenge was the knee-jerk reaction, so to hear God commanding this new idea of being kind to your enemies must’ve ruffled some feathers.

It doesn’t seem fair and it doesn’t make sense in our human minds. Yet this would be one of many things that would separate Israel from everyone else. People would know they’re different if they return their enemy’s lost donkey. Heart Check.

Would you return the donkey? If you have the choice to help your enemy, would you do it?


FIRSTFRUITS | Ex. 23:19

Before it’s officially called the tithe, we see the concept in place here—bringing God the firstfruits and the best of the harvest.

This would prove that they acknowledge that everything comes from God.

And while tithing will not get you saved (because we are saved by grace and not works), there are still massive benefits to it, with one of the main ones being an unspeakable joy when we are generous and trusting in God’s provision rather than stingy and doubtful.

And we can apply this to so many things in our lives—the firstfruits of our day or energy, the firstfruits of our talents, the firstfruits of our time. Heart Check.

Are you bringing God the best of your firstfruits? Or does He only get the leftovers?


LITTLE BY LITTLE | Ex. 23:30

God is letting them know that He is not in a rush and that He is going to drive out the inhabitants little by little. This would grieve the heart of ones who may be impatient in waiting.

But He makes it very clear—if He were to drive them out quickly, they would walk into a land that is barren and taken over by wild beasts.

So He’s keeping them there so they will continue to work the land and maintain fruitfulness. Paul says that we should count it all joy when we go through trials, for it is in that where we learn patience (James 1:2-4), because it will require us to stay close to the Lord and to be persistent in pursuing Him. Heart Check.

When God is only moving little by little, how do you fare? Is you patience wearing thin or increasing?


Take Possession | Ex. 23:31-32

This land that God is gifting them is 300,000 square miles, yet they will only possess ten percent of that, which shows us that just because God gives it doesn’t mean that we possess it.

We must reach out and take hold of the promises, the forgiveness, the grace, the love, the authority, the joy that fiows abundantly from Him and is available to us. But it requires us to partner with Him and to receive in faith. Heart Check.

What has God offered you that you have not taken possession of?


 Deep Dive

 How do these laws reflect what God values?

How can these laws be applied to modern day societal justice?

How do you see the treatment of foreigners in your country? How do you view them?

While Moses is in a privileged position in the eyes of both God and man, what emotions do you think he may have felt in this place of isolation?

What significance does the writing of the Word hold for us today? How can we apply it personally?

 

  Kanoe Gibson's Printable Notes Link


Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank you for continuing tp show us more of who you are.

 Your compassion, desire for fair treatment, purity and justice is so evident in this reading today. These principles are not just ones that are buried deep within another culture or an ancient text, but they are still so applicable to our lives today. I pray that we fully understand the reasons behind these institutions. Thank you for the blueprint that you left for us to be able to shape our societies today. I pray that we will come back to morals and ethics that refiect a desire for purity and a heart for the ones who truly need help.

I pray that we will see the practicality of things like not spreading false information or going with the fiow of the crowds and how they will only manifest to our detriment. Help us to be kind to those who mistreat us—I pray that we will all return the donkey should we be given the chance.

Help us to treat everyone with fairness and never according to social status or wealth. I pray that we will carry your heart when it comes to foreigners, especially in our own homeland. This is not a declaration of surrender or anything to do with immigration policy, but it’s a heart issue and the way we view humanity.

Help us to be good stewards and managers of every good gift that you give to us. I pray that we will be mindful of when rest and refreshment is necessary. Some of us can be so driven by work that we refuse to take even a moment to trust in your provision. May we never lack that faith, but always bring you our first and best of everything we have.

I pray we will be innocent of evil and turn the other way when there is a door in front of us to pique our interest or curiosity. Give us a desire to maintain our own purity in both thought and action. Guard our minds and may we always take every thought captive and make it obedient to you.

Thank you for preparing a place for us, Jesus. We look forward to the day that we get to walk into our Promised Land. Until then, I pray that we will not partner with the world but only with you as we walk in righteousness and holiness. We know that when we do so, we too will be protected and blessed in our coming and going. Help us to trust you, especially when the time in the wilderness seems to drag on and the steps feel tiny.

We are so grateful to be part of your chosen people, under the covenant that was built on love. Thank you, Jesus, for being the perfect sacrifice to atone for our sins. We have failed miserably and will continue to do so, yet you never forsake us, and we are so grateful. I pray that we will always see and reveal your glory to be seen across the earth.

We love you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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Day 038 Exodus 25-27 | Heart Dive 365

Feb 7

Exodus 25-27 records the directives for the building of the tabernacle and all of its articles within it.

In chapter 25, God calls for an offering from the people who are willing to give, requesting articles of silver, gold, bronze, fine linens, dyes, oils, and animal skins. These would be used in the construction of the sanctuary, where God’s Holy Presence would dwell among His people. God gives specific instructions on how to construct the Ark of the Covenant, the Table for Bread, and the Golden Lampstand, all of which are made of acacia wood and fine gold.

In chapter 26, God gives detailed instructions for building the tabernacle, including ten curtains made of fine linens, external curtains of animal skins, the poles, frames and crossbars, and the interior veil which would separate the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place. The final curtain would cover the tent entrance.

In chapter 27, God gives instructions for the building of the bronze altar and the courtyard outside the tabernacle. The court is to be constructed with acacia posts and bronze bases with curtains of fine linens. All utensils used in the tabernacle are to be made of bronze and used exclusively in the tabernacle. The people are commanded by God to bring pure olive oil to supply the lamps, and Aaron and his sons are to tend the lamps around the clock.

Heart Checks from the video

 MERCY SEAT | Ex. 25:22

What grace—God says He will meet His people at the Mercy Seat—that which covers the ark, where the commandments are.

This is symbolic of the cross, where the blood of Jesus covered our inability to uphold the law. Because of what He did, we can come boldly into the throne room of grace, where we will find mercy and grace in our time of need (Heb. 4:16). Yet many of us think that to meet with God, we first must clean up our act, read three chapters, cite the Lord’s prayer, be able to memorize scripture and pass a theological exam. But God doesn’t ask that of us because Jesus fulfills all of that. And when we simply come before Him with humility and a desire to know Him, His word says that He will draw near to us because we are covered by the grace that was poured out on the mercy seat. He paid the price, made the atonement, and so He is our mercy seat. Heart Check.

Are you trying to get into the throne room by your devotional life? Or do you rest simply in the covering of the Mercy Seat?


INTERNAL VS EXTERNAL | Ex. 25

In the end, the construction of the tabernacle was a rather simple exterior, but it’s in the inside where the most value lies. The articles of worship would’ve been valued in the millions of dollars today.

And such is the way with God—He is more concerned with the interior of our lives than the exterior. It doesn’t mean we don’t steward the exterior—as we will see later, everything He builds is always constructed with intention and order and intended to be maintained. But the interior is where true worship happens. Heart Check.

Where do you place the most value? On your external appearance or your internal character?


VEIL | Ex. 26:33

The veil here is a barrier between where there was general priestly worship (the Holy Place) and where only the High Priest could enter once a year to atone for the sins of the people (the Most Holy Place).

This symbolized the barrier between God and the people. We will later read that when Jesus dies, the veil will be torn from top to bottom, signifying that barrier being broken once and for all. We can now enter into the Most Holy place because of the blood of Jesus atoning for our sins. Yet some people will never get beyond their own invisible veil that they erect themselves—these are veils of unworthiness, insecurity, religiosity—anything that keeps us from having that true intimacy with Jesus. Heart Check.

Is there a veil that is keeping you from fully entering to the Most Holy Place?


KEEP THE FIRE BURNING | Ex. 27:20-21

The fire in these lamps were tended to both day and night, meaning the fire never went out. The priests would have to keep a continual supply of oil and trim the wicks in order to keep it burning.

So to me, this symbolizes the constant need for the Holy Spirit in order to keep our fire burning. There’s no amount of religious doing that will be able to ignite that—it is only by His Spirit that we will be empowered to do His will. But then there’s maintenance required in the trimming of the wicks. So how does that relate to us? I know that every time I come to the Word, there is a cutting away of something in my Spirit. The Word will divide the soul and spirit and judge the thoughts and attitudes of our hearts. Heart Check.

Is your fire burning today? Do you need to top off your oil or do you need to do a maintenance checkup?


 Deep Dive

 What does the voluntary offering reveal about God’s heart?

What does God’s specific instructions reveal about His character?

How do we fall in line with this desire for excellence?

How can we relate the concept of the tabernacle to our lives today?

What does the courtyard display about the holiness of God?

  Kanoe Gibson's Printable Notes Link


Prayer

Heavenly Father, I pray that we understand the depth and magnitude of your holiness today?

 We stand in awe of the meticulous nature of your craftsmanship, knowing that you never do anything haphazardly, but always by design, with patterns and order. I pray that we will be a people who follow your instructions to the tee so that we can honor you in the building of our own tabernacle. Your Holy Spirit dwells within us, so we want to make it a cozy space, where it will bring you joy to dwell within. I pray that we will follow you with sincerity and excellence in all that we do.

Thank you for showing us how incredibly important your Most Holy Place is, and yet you loved us enough to remove that separation between it and us. When we enter, I pray that we do so with reverence, honor and worship.

Thank you, Jesus, for being our Mercy Seat, where we can come boldly into the throne room of grace. We are in desperate need of your mercy every single day, so being able to draw near is so necessary for our everyday living.

Help us to recognize the beautiful gifts that you have given to us, to be used for your glory. I pray that we never try to exploit them in any way for our own selfish gain, and that we keep them submitted before you. We know that we need your Holy Spirit to empower us for service, and so I pray that we will be aware of your Presence day and night. I pray that through our love for your Word, you will trim our spirits and souls as needed. You know exactly what needs to be dealt with, so have your way. May our fires always burn for you.

We love you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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Day 039 Exodus 28-29 | Heart Dive 365

Feb 8

Exodus 28-29 establishes the priesthood and the holy garments they are to wear.

In chapter 28, God appoints Aaron and his sons to serve as priests to God and for the people.

He instructs those who are skilled in specific tasks and gifted with divine wisdom to make holy garments for the priests. Detailed instructions are given for the creation of the ephod, breastpiece, robe, and turban.

All pieces are created with the finest materials. Aaron and his sons are to be anointed, ordained, and consecrated, and the garments are to always be worn when they minister.

In chapter 29, God gives directives for the consecration and ordination of the priests, with the first being Aaron and his sons.

They were to bring sacrifices to the altar, be publicly washed, clothed and anointed as part of their ordination ceremony.

The blood and fat of animals would be used in different aspects and would all be either consumed or burnt in the end as a symbol of complete devotion to the Lord. Aaron and his sons would complete their acceptance of these priestly roles through a sacrificial meal. The whole process would take place over seven days, with daily morning and evening sacrifices brought to symbolize continual devotion to God.

God once again promises to remain in the presence of the Israelites, rea£irming His covenant with them.

Heart Checks from the video

 ROYAL PRIESTHOOD | Ex. 28:1

Here we see how God uses families in ministry. Anyone linked to the family of Aaron would carry this greater responsibility of entering into the priesthood. Well guess who we are linked to?

The Great High Priest.

We are called a royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9). Therefore, we are all called into the ministry. But this doesn’t necessarily mean everyone becomes ministers in an organized institution—we are ministers in our homes, our workplaces, in the way we treat waiters or the person who checks us out at the grocery store. Heart Check.

What are you doing with your role in the royal priesthood?


DIVINE SKILLS | Ex. 28:3

We have all been given specific skills and gifts by God, and you will hear me drive this into the ground over and over again, because I truly believe that when we get this, we will begin to understand where it all fits together in His purpose for our lives.

Because we are created for His glory, and that includes the gifts He instilled in us from before we were even formed in our mothers’ wombs. If you don’t know what those are, ask.

If you don’t know how to use them for His purpose, ask. The Holy Spirit empowers those who seek His guidance and wisdom. Heart Check.

What skills or abilities do you feel that you have been divinely gifted with? How are you using them to minister to the Lord?


LOAD BEARING | Ex. 28:12

If you’ve ever heard the saying, “Carrying the weight of the world on your shoulders,” this would be a fine example of that.

The priest would wear these stones on his shoulders as an act of remembrance for the sons of Israel. He bore the responsibility of carrying their sins to the altar and making atonement for them. Jesus did the heaviest of lifting when he bore the weight of the entire world on his shoulders. And while we are set free from carrying any extra weight or burdens of our own, we can still help to ease that weight o£ of others through prayer, edification, teaching, and encouragement. Heart Check.

What load are you bearing on your shoulders for others?


SOUNDS | Ex. 28:35

Since the priests would “disappear” from the people when he would go into the tabernacle, the way they would know that he’s still ministering on their behalf would be by the sound of the bells. They would hear it as he entered and also as he exited.

And I thought to myself, we can sometimes have a distinct sound going into church that sounds a whole lot di£erent that the sound we make at home or as soon as we step foot into our cars. For some of us, that sound changes again when we get together with our friends. Heart check.

Is the sound of your spirit the same when it comes out of the Holy Place as it is going in?


GIVE YOUR ALL | Ex. 29:31-34

The entire sacrifice was to be burnt up, meaning no leftovers for morning. This symbolized that they have failed in giving their all to God and therefore the entire animal will do so in their place.

But it didn’t stop there—they would now commit to giving their all to the Lord from this point forward. And we hear this term thrown around all the time. In fact, we tell our kids every weekend before their wrestling match and gymnastics competition to give it your all. That simply means, give it your best e£ort. Lay it out on the mats and leave it there. Heart Check.

Have you committed your all to the Lord? Are you laying it all down and leaving it at the altar? If not, what is holding you back?


ALL DAY DEVOTION | Ex. 29:39

Can you imagine having to do this act of sacrifice both in the morning and the evening, over and over again?

Most of us are usually really good at bringing our offering of devotion in one or the other—either morning or evening, depending on if you’re an early bird or a night owl. But the full sacrifice comes in when we can dedicate our entire day to the Lord, not just a one-time 35 minute video on YouTube. At the very least, as modeled here in the Bible, we should be devoting some part of our morning and evening to Him. It doesn’t need to be religious or any sort of ritual—this could simply be prayer or reading a quick devotional before you rest. Heart Check.

Do you start and end your day with the Lord?


HIS HOLINESS | Ex. 29

In the end, understanding the gravity of the role of the priest and all that was involved in their consecration and ordination, really should make us truly appreciate what Jesus did even more.

Because we no longer need a representative to take all of our filth before a perfect God. He was preparing the people for the day when they could have a direct relationship with Him through Jesus, which we are now partakers of. But not only that, He intentionally did all of this so that they people would be so distinct from their surrounding pagan neighbors once they entered into the Promised Land. There would be no, “I didn’t knows” or “I didn’t mean tos” because every step of this process was so deliberate and required a lot of e£ort and concentration. There was an emphasis on His holiness, something that we tend to treat so casually today. Heart Check.

How do you view God's holiness? How do you treat it?


 Deep Dive

 How does the responsibility of the priests translate to the responsibility that we have as a royal priesthood?

How can we apply “Holy to the Lord” to our lives? What would that look like?

Look at what each piece of the garments represents in the Christian life today. What area might need repair?

Does gaining a better understanding of the priesthood give you a greater appreciation for the work of Christ?

  Kanoe Gibson's Printable Notes Link


Prayer

Heavenly Father,thank you for sending us the Great High Priest.

 Jesus, we recognize you today as the one who came with all authority and power yet still chose to humbly serve and lay your life down on our behalf. Because you have done so, we no longer need anyone to intercede on our behalf. What a gift it is to know that when we enter into a covenant with you, we are clothed with robes of righteousness and made whole.

 I pray that we too can understand our role as ministers, who are indeed set apart for your glory. The way we wear our faith will either refiect or pollute your beauty in the eyes of others, so I pray that we will wear it well. Forgive us where we have taken these robes o£ and dishonored your holy name. I pray that we will understand the seriousness with which we approach our service to you. We don’t ever want our worship to be diluted in any way.

We are so grateful to be chosen and called to honor you with our lives, so I pray that we pay careful attention to everything we do and say so that we are always protecting that sacredness and holiness of the covenant.

I pray that our minds are always girded with truth with “holy to the Lord” being on our foreheads as well. But not only are we to live in external righteousness, but more importantly with holy and righteous undergarments. We know you are more concerned with our hearts, minds and spirits, and so I pray that we will be as well, for true glory and beauty come from within. But this doesn’t mean we neglect the outer appearance— for it is a gift as well, so I pray we treat it as such, showing honor in the way we present ourselves before you and people.

Thank you for helping us to see the importance of living our lives in reverence. It isn’t because you’re an egotistical God, but it’s because you are a perfect God who is holy and awesome, and you deserve nothing less than our complete devotion and worship. Forgive us where we have treated it so casually or where we have taken your grace for granted. I pray that in reading this today, we have a better understanding of what Jesus did for us and why. Thank you for loving us and caring for us enough to put an end to our own failing ability to upkeep your ways.

We know that we are saved by grace, washed and covered by the blood and anointed with your Holy Spirit, but that gives no excuse to live loosely or however we want. Your holy standard is unchanging, so we desire to do our best to live purely and wholly before you.

Thank you for dwelling among us today—what a powerful reminder it is of your love and grace and desire to be in continual relationship with us. I pray that we prepare a place for you, morning and evening to meet with us.

We love you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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Day 040 Exodus 30-32 | Heart Dive 365

Feb 9

Exodus 30-32 continues God’s commands on the crafting of temple items and the appointment of those who will guide the project. It also accounts for the incident of the golden calf at the base of Mt. Sinai.

In chapter 30, God commands Moses to build an altar of incense. It is to be made of acacia wood, overlaid with gold and placed in front of the veil in the Holy Place.

The High Priest (Aaron) is to burn fragrant incense on it day and night, and it shall be atoned once a year with the blood of the sin offering. The Lord calls for a census of the people and for each twenty-year-old male to pay a half shekel as a ransom for his life—this would be used for the service of the temple. A bronze basin is crafted for the priests to wash their hands and feet before ministering. A recipe for the holy anointing oil and incense is given and blended by a perfumer. These are to be used solely for the temple items and never imitated.

In chapter 31, God appoints the foremen, Bezalel and Oholiab, for the construction of the holy items.

He divinely empowers not only their skills and abilities but also the wisdom through which they apply them. They would be responsible for the creation of the Tent of Meeting, ark of the Testimony, the mercy seat, holy garments, anointing oil and incense, and other holy items. God reminds them of the importance of keeping the Sabbath and warns of deadly consequences should they not. The chapter ends with the giving of the two tablets of the Ten Commandments inscribed by God to Moses.

In chapter 32, the Israelites grow impatient in waiting for Moses’ return and appeal to Aaron to construct a god to take his place.

Aaron calls for an offering of gold and creates a golden calf, to their appeasement. Aaron then declares a feast where the people bring offerings and sacrifices to the image.

When the Lord sees this, he threatens to destroy the people and essentially start over with Moses leading his own nation, but Moses pleads with God to relent, so He does.

As Moses comes down from the mountain and witnesses this revelry, his anger burns, and he shatters the tablets of the Testimony. He then grinds the idol into powder and forces the people to drink it consequently. Moses questions Aaron about the incident, only for him to place the blame on an evil people.

Moses calls for those who will be faithful to the Lord, and when the Levites are the only ones to step up, he orders them to kill those still involved in idolatry, with 3000 falling as a result. Moses intercedes on behalf of the people, but God declares that sinners will be blotted out of His book. The chapter ends with a plague being sent upon the people because of this incident.

Heart Checks from the video

 PRAYER | Ex. 30:6

One of the hardest things in the spiritual life to do is to pray. So many people struggle with it, and it makes sense. Satan doesn’t want us to pray, so he will do everything he can to distract you, make you think your prayers aren’t good enough, he’ll start singing lullabies in your ear so you’ll fall asleep before you finish, because he knows this is where God meets you.

It is in prayer where His power is unleashed.

And because we know this, we want so badly to have a prolific prayer life, but God is like, “I just want to talk to you.” As wonderful as it is to be able to pray the Word or to feel confident publicly praying, that shouldn’t be our goal. Our goal should be to simply talk to Him. And it isn’t even always audible. Our spirit can pray for us. My personal prayers don’t always sound like the ones we pray at the end of Bible study.

Because my meeting with God is way more personal. Sometimes I just sit in silence before Him and let my spirit lead my heart and mind. It’s not the length or the intellect of your prayers that matter, it’s the strength and genuineness of it. Heart Check.

Are you thinking too hard about what prayer looks like? Or are you simply talking to Jesus?


HOLY FRAGRANCE | Ex. 30:32

Both the anointing oil and the incense were declared holy and to be used only for His holy purposes. It was a sweet fragrance that was never to touch anything unholy including the fiesh but to be used only for the heavenly items in the tabernacle. It was not to be imitated, and if it was, their lives would be ended. One of the fastest ways to a kill a ministry is to try to imitate someone else’s anointing or calling.

Because remember, we individually and uniquely are called and anointed for a specific purpose, so it would be like putting on a perfume dupe, only for it to sour on your skin or knowing that something’s o£ because it isn’t the original. You are original. The sweetest of perfumers—the Holy Spirit—has a unique fragrance for you. Heart Check

Is your anointing a dupe? Or are you wearing your holy fragrance?


PRACTICAL ANOINTING | Ex. 31:15

The practical ministry both then and now is just as important as the priestly ministry, and sometimes we neglect the ability to be empowered in our own jobs, not realizing that it is work that can be done as unto the Lord. One of my favorite verses is 1 Corinthians 10:13, which says, “… whatever you do, do it for the glory of God.”

So folding laundry, for the glory of God. Filming a YouTube video, for the glory of God. Being kind to workers, for the glory of God. Here God empowered and gave vigor to carpenters, seamstresses, and perfumers—this tells me that whatever job you’re currently in, can be anointed by God. We don’t have to be Moseses and Aarons. Heart Check.

Have you ask God to anoint what you do practically?


SECOND FIDDLE | Ex. 31:6

Oholiab is my kind of guy. He’s first runner-up to Miss America, co-host of the TV show, in someone’s shadow… he is second in command.

You see, the world makes us think that we need to win the crown to be significant or win the race to win the prize. And we tend to think that if we don’t get there, we have somehow failed. But this guy Oholiab reminds me that every single position is appointed by God, and so we must be able to treat whatever place we end up in, as if it is 1st place. If we have to play second fiddle, we gotta play our part right and play it well, or we will throw o£ the entire orchestra. If we try to overstep our boundary and outshine the first fiddle player, we will probably get kicked out. I live my life by the motto, play second fiddle and play it well. Honor the position you’re in, because the truth is, there is always someone who is better than you at what you’re doing, and that is a good thing, because you have someone to inspire you. And there’s also someone who’s worse than you in the 3rd chair, who you can be an inspiration for. Heart Check.

How well are you shining in the position that God has placed you in?


HANDLING DELAYS | Ex. 32:1

That didn’t take long—40 days and the people are losing hope because they have placed their hope in the wrong thing.

Faith is hope in the things unseen. It says here that the people “saw that Moses delayed in coming down”.

And not only are they putting their hope in the wrong place, but also up against their own expectation and according to their ETA (estimated time of arrival). But then the third mistake is that they gathered together to make a formal complaint, kind of like those videos that go viral, and suddenly everyone is boycotting companies because it’s swaying the masses. So with each step into sin, they’re walking further away from their faith in God and putting it into another leader and a false image, which will ultimately break the three first commandments. They grew so impatient that they failed to handle the delay well. And delays are a wonderful measure for spiritual maturity. Heart Check.

How do you handle a delay? Do you try to force it to happen? Or do you remain faithful and steadfast, trusting in the Lord's timing?


MOLDING GOD | Ex. 32

In the end, the whole problem stemmed from faulty expectations of both God and Moses, and it resulted in the people molding God into their own image of what they wanted Him to do and be for them. We can do this too—we will take God and cut a little here, a little there, so that He will fit into our own box of expectations and desires.

In doing so, we place ourselves above Him in self-worship, yet we fail to see it for what it is.
Heart Check.

 Are you molding your own image of God to meet your expectations in life?


 Deep Dive

 Is the daily ritual of burning incense (a spiritual routine) evident in your life?

Why is the violation of the Sabbath deserving of such a grave consequence in this day?

Why do you think Aaron decided to form the golden calf?

If God kept His word on destroying the people, would that have a£ected the Covenant?

Was Moses’ “rage” righteous? What about his actions of breaking the tablets?

How do Moses’ and Aaron’s leadership di£er? What can we learn from them?

  Kanoe Gibson's Printable Notes Link


Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank you for your steadfast love & forgiveness.

 Sometimes we fail to see how much of it you actually pour out into our lives because we have become so accustomed to receiving it. Forgive us where we have done so. I pray that we are always aware of our shortcomings and rather than allowing it to drive us deeper into sin, I pray that you will help us to see it for what it is, call it out, and make it right.

I pray that we will never put you into our own box of expectation or try to mold you to meet our selfish desires. You are the potter and we are the clay, so we yield our lives to mold us to how you see fit. It is in your hands where we want our lives to always be, never seeking something better somewhere else, because we know that we will never find it. Help us to place our hope in the unseen, knowing that it is then that you will strengthen our faith. I pray we will never try to manipulate or force your will.

I pray for a special anointing today over every person, their jobs, their gifts, their hobbies, their skills, and the wisdom by which they will use them. I pray that you will help them see how they can do everything for your glory. This doesn’t mean a drastic change of sudden religious jargon or self-righteousness, but simply being submitted to your will and committed to glorifying you in everything they do, whether work or deed. May our words be seasoned properly and may they be pleasant to the ears of those who hear. We want to be a beautiful fragrance, as crafted by your Holy Spirit.

Forgive us where we have tried to imitate or make a cheap copy of an anointing that we never had. I pray that we will all be able to see the place that we are in as an honor. You have placed us here for a time such as this, so I pray that we will play our fiddle, no matter which chair we are sitting in, and play it well. Help us never to be swayed by the fear of man but always living out our lives in fear of you.

Thank you for this time in being able to know you more. Help us to bolster up our prayer life, not in length or intellect, but in strength and sincerity.

We love you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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Day 041 Exodus 33-35 | Heart Dive 365

Feb 10

Exodus 33-35 marks the call to depart from Mt. Sinai to the Promised Land and renewal of the covenant between God and His people.

In chapter 33, the Lord commands Moses to depart Sinai and head to Canaan. When He advises them that He will not go with them due to their stubbornness, the people mourn, so He calls for them to remove their ornaments. Meanwhile, Moses pitches his tent outside the camp to serve as a tent of meeting for the congregation, where the Lord speaks to Him face to face. As he enters, the pillar of cloud descends upon the tent. Moses pleads with God for favor, and the Lord grants it, saying He knows him by name.

Moses asks to see God’s glory, and the Lord declares that Moses will see his goodness but not his face, for if anyone does, they shall not live. He then tells Moses that He will place him in the cleft of a rock and will cover him as His glory passes by, only for the covering to be removed in time for Moses to see His back.

In chapter 34, the Lord commands Moses to make a replica of the stones that were broken and to meet Him at the top of Mt. Sinai. There the Lord descends and renews His covenant with Israel, warning the people not to make a covenant with the nations who currently live in Canaan. He warns them against idolatry and commands the observance of the Feasts and the Sabbath. When Moses returns after 40 days, having not eaten or drunk a single thing, his face shines with the glory of God. Each time after speaking with the people, Moses places a veil over his face until He comes before the Lord once again. This process continues each time he visits with the Lord.

In chapter 35, the Lord once again gives the regulations for the Sabbath before commanding an o£ering for the building of the tabernacle. He also calls for every skilled worker to be employed in their area of expertise for the crafting of the tabernacle and all its furnishings and utensils, as well as the priestly garments. Willing men and women come forth to give and work as a freewill offering. Moses appoints Bezalel and Oholiab to lead the building and crafting projects, as guided by the filling of the Spirit.

Heart Checks from the video

 PRESENTS OR PRESENCE | Ex. 33:1-3

Because of what happened with the golden calf incident, God is withdrawing His Presence while still maintaining His promise of the presents or blessing of the Promised Land. This would be a great test that would prove whether or not they’re okay with getting all the blessings but not having His Spirit with them. But if they plead for His Presence to remain, this would be the first step back to restoring what was broken and proving their genuine heart and love for Him. We too can gain all the riches in the world, but I assure you that at the end of our lives, if we had not God, they would matter none. Heart Check.

Do you seek more of God's presents (blessings) or His spiritual Presence?


LEAD BY EXAMPLE | Ex. 33:8-10

I love how the people watch Moses carefully and follow what he does.

When he worships, they worship. Moses was simply leading by example. While we talked about copycat anointing the other day, this is not that. Looking to others who are more spiritually mature and seeing how you can implement some of the things they are doing is a wonderful thing, if it is being applied for the glory of God. On the fiip side, you too, can be that example for others.Heart Check.

What practices do you implement into your spirtual walk that have beenmodeled by others? How are you leading by example?


DISTINCT | Ex. 33:16

Moses was so concerned about what other people were thinking about them. Hear me out—he knew that the Presence of God among them was the greatest thing that distinguished them from every other nation.

And this is interesting because the world will tell us, “Who cares what people think about you. Do you boo!”

And to an extent, I agree. Paul even says that if we are trying to please men, then we would not be servants of Christ. But that’s very different from not caring at all, and the enemy will pollute things like apologizing, seeking forgiveness, showing kindness or being humble, making it seem as if it is a bad thing because it will make you look weak. Or sometimes we will live our lives saying, “I’m going to do and say whatever I want because I can, and I don’t care who I o£end in the process.”

But the thing is, we should care. Because what makes us distinct as Christians, is that we take on the character of God, the most caring being in the entire universe, as His Presence dwells within us. We are supposed to show grace and love and mercy and kindness where the world refuses to. And I will tell you that the more you pour that out, it becomes an armor against the fiery darts. You will be di£erent. Heart Check.

Are you distinct? Can the world see that you are different because of your likeness to God?


EMPTY-HANDED | Ex. 34:20

God is specifically speaking about the dedication of the firstborn here, and while this is not a mandate for us as Christians, we are still held to not being empty-handed when we come before Him.

This isn’t speaking of money or works, but praise, adoration, prayer, thanksgiving, and service. This is such a small sacrifice for all that He has done for us. When we are immature in our faith, we come to God seeking to get something from Him—we are looking for happiness or a change in our circumstances or an answered prayer. It takes maturity to look for opportunities to bring something to Him not because we are trying to earn His favor, but because He is worthy of it and our hearts desire to honor Him. Heart Check.

Are your hands empty and waiting for a handout from the Lord? Or are you looking for ways to serve Him?


FREEWILL GIVING | Ex. 35

In the end, this is one of the biggest moments of redemption in the Old Testament.

One of the few times you see the people working together in unity and pouring out to give. Moses didn’t need to manipulate anyone into doing anything.

He let them know what the need was, and the people gave out of generous hearts.

They were moved together, with one common goal in mind. God could’ve easily given them every material they needed and built it Himself—after all, we’re talking about the God who parted the Red Sea!

But He wants to partner with us. He wants us to be generous, because ultimately, when we have a heart to give rather than to hoard, it actually frees us up from selfishness, covetousness, greed… and it shifts our focus from ourselves to others. And again, giving is not just about money or material possessions.

We can give of our time, our abilities, simple service, prayer, encouragement, and the list goes on. Heart Check.

Where does your giving fall on the scale of generosity? Do you give out of freewill, or do you need to be forced or guilted into it?


 Deep Dive

 What is your view of the glory of God? How is it still revealed today?

Why would people die if they were to see God’s face? How does this relate to our lives today?

Read 34:6-7. How does this compare to your view of the “Old Testament God”? Do you see these characteristics displayed in the more di£icult passages of the Bible?

How do you think Moses survived without food and water for 40 days and nights? What significance does this hold?

How does this reading display the importance of community outreach and involvement?

  Kanoe Gibson's Printable Notes Link


Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank you for being sucha generous God

 I pray that our hearts will be moved by you to give where you want us to give. Will you show us how we can do so and help us to see how much it blesses your heart. We don’t give to get, but we know that in being such a Good Father, you desire to bless your children. So we continue to trust in your provision, just the way that Moses did. We don’t need to force or manipulate anything, but we simply need to step up and do the work that you’ve given us the ability and skill to do. We desire to partner with you in everything we do.

I pray that we will be a people who bring others together in unity, working toward a common goal. I pray for order and beauty in our own spaces and places of worship. We see that everything you did had such purpose, and so I pray that we will be intentional in everything we do as well.

Help us to lead by example and show others what it means to be a leader. I pray that we don’t seek out opportunities to shine and be center stage for ourselves, but that we just simply walk in obedience to your will and calling on our lives. We want to operate in authority but always in humility, with the heart of a servant, just as you were Jesus. May we never think we are better than anyone or feel the need to be an imposter, hiding our imperfections under a veil. We know that it is in our weakness where your strength shines the brightest, so thank you for those teachable moments where we can allow you to pick us up again.

Thank you also for reminding us that being humble, seeking forgiveness, being kind, showing grace and mercy, and apologizing are beautiful things. Rebuke the enemy and his lies that we are somehow weak if we portray ourselves in that manner. We know that when we take on your heart and character, it is actually armor against what he will try to do or say against us. Thank you for your divine protection against those who seek to destroy. We know that no weapon formed against us will prosper.

Thank you for second chances, especially when our emotions have gotten the best of us, and we have broken relationships and covenants because of it.

I pray for those who are fighting for restoration and reconciliation in marriages and estranged relationships—will you come down and let your glory and goodness be seen. Your name is still the same—you still bear all mercy and grace, you’re slow to anger, abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness. Help us to be the same.

Forgive us where we have been sti£-necked or stubborn, trying to go in our own direction, completely bucking up against your will. We may think the grass looks greener on the other side, but in the end, it’s only a filter of the enemy when the other side is without your Presence. I plead that we find favor in your eyes today, and that we never walk away from you.

We are so grateful for the everlasting covenant that we have in you Jesus.

 We love you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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Day 042 Exodus 36-38 | Heart Dive 365

Feb 11

Exodus 36-38 continues with the construction of the tabernacle and all of its holy items, as led by Bezalel.

In chapter 36, Moses calls Bezalel and Oholiab along with every willing and able worker to begin the work on the tabernacle and its furnishings.

The Israelites’ freewill o£erings of materials begins to exceed the need, and they are restrained from giving more. The curtains and the framework of the tabernacle are constructed, along with the veil that shall separate the Holy Place from the Most Holy Place.

In chapter 37, Bezalel constructs the Ark, the Mercy Seat, the Table and its utensils, the Lampstand, and the Altar of Incense, as prescribed by God, using acacia wood and pure gold.

He and the perfumer prepare the holy anointing oil and incense.

In chapter 38, Bezalel constructs the Altar of Burnt O£ering, the Bronze Basin, and the Court, as prescribed by God, using the finest materials.

The Bronze Basin was constructed from the mirrors of the ministering women.

The construction of the temple items are completed through the work of Bezalel, Oholiab and the Levites led by Aaron’s son Ithamar.

Heart Checks from the video

 WILLING AND ABLE | Ex. 36:1

This is a pretty straightforward command—if you have skill, intelligence and know how, you shall work. Bezalel and Oholiab go down in history as some of the best workers because they were both willing and able. Both of those qualities are needed. It’s like sitting in the exit row of an aircraft—you must be at least 15 years old and have the capability to operate the door. But not only that, you have to be willing. A lot of us have the skills and abilities, but we aren’t willing to do the work that God has called us to do because it seems too daunting a task or perhaps it seems like it won’t lead to where we want it to go. Heart Check.

Are you willing and able to step up to do work that the Lord has commanded? If not, what's holding you back?


SHINING LIGHT | Ex. 37:17-24

Have you ever been around those kinds of people who just light up the room?

If we have the right heart, these people bring joy to our lives. But if we are cynical, bitter, or the envious type, these people will tend to annoy us—because their light exposes our darkness within, and that annoyance is actually our spirit dealing with our fiesh. We are called by the Light of the World to be a light in dark places. Heart Check.

Do you bring light into a room or do you snuff out the light that already exists?


MUTED MIRRORS | Ex. 38:8

Mirrors in this day were not like today’s mirrors—they were typically polished brass or bronze, o£ering a muted refiection.

But regardless, it’s significant to note that the women gave up their only measure of outward beauty for the ability of the priests to purify themselves before entering the tabernacle. They placed more value on the internal than the external. When I think of these muted mirrors, I think of social media—how so much value is placed on the image we portray. We work so hard to display the highlights of our lives while our internal state lies in ruins. Or some of us have profiles that don’t refiect the character of God. It’s a muted display of His character.

Some of you are thinking, not me, I hate social media. So this Heart Check may not be for you.

But for the rest of us, Heart Check.

What does your mirror (social media) reflect? Does it mute God's character or bring Him Glory? Would you be willing to give it up for His purpose?


BLUEPRINT | Ex. 36-38

In the end, we see such incredible detail that was laid out on God’s blueprint. Every intricacy mattered, and He ensured that it was followed to a tee.

If we know that He is a God who cares far more for His children than material items, imagine the blueprints of our lives and every single detail that has been laid out in heaven.

We are the Bezalels and Oholiabs who have been appointed to carry out those details as He penciled them in. When we do, we will have an unshakeable and indestructible faith.

But the moment we veer off and get distracted by other projects, that is where our project gets delayed and more expensive, and we wonder why things aren’t happening or why we feel so defiated at the end of the day. But when we follow His plan, we are given divine strength, ability, know-how, wisdom, that doesn’t make sense. This is what it means when we pray, “your will be done here on earth as it is in heaven.” This is our way of saying, we are your workers, and we are ready to follow the blueprint you’ve created in heaven. Heart Check.

Are you following God's blueprint for your life?


 Deep Dive

 How does the spirit of generosity and skilled ability come together in today’s church?

What does the detail, high standard of excellence, and artistic beauty of the sanctuary say about God’s character? Do you live out your life to represent this?

Is there a sanctuary in your life?

Are there any items today that would be significant artifacts for future generations like those in the tabernacle?

What were the roles of the ministering women at the entrance of the tent of meeting? How was this significant in this day?

 

  Kanoe Gibson's Printable Notes Link


Prayer

Heavenly Father, what a beautiful bluprint you have laid out, not only for the tabernacle but for our lives as well.

 Thank you for every detail that you have so intricately woven together—I pray that we will rise to the occasion as willing and able workers to carry out your will. Forgive us where we have failed to believe that we were capable or where we may not have recognized the skills and abilities you have given us. Will you continue to reveal those things to us, and I pray that your Presence will continue to give us guidance in the construction of our own lives.

We know that the best work is done when we do so as a community—from the beginning, you never intended for us to do this life alone. So I pray specifically for those who may be isolating themselves from fellowship—will you help them to find their place among others so that they can be a contributor to a greater purpose.

We desire to use our gifts and resources in service to you. Show us where we can be best utilized, and I pray that our hearts will be generous in giving of our time, talent and treasure. I pray that we will desire to pour out so much that it will be more than enough, just as it was here.

Thank you for your divine guidance in building up the church. I pray that we will be unified and always pointing others back to you Jesus. May we put more emphasis on the heart than the outward appearance. I pray that our refiection will be one that is pure and one that shines your light rather than a muted image of who you are. Forgive us where we may have misrepresented you in the way we present ourselves to the world.

We see your desire for order, beauty, and excellence. I pray that we too will desire this in everything we do so that we represent your work ethic. There is no good that comes from disorder, ugliness or laziness. So give us the strength we need to get it together. I pray that we treat every aspect of worship with so much care and with a depth of devotion.

Thank you that every single offering that we bring blesses your heart, no matter how big or small. You know our intentions, and so I pray that we will see that there is nothing too little to be used by you. So we are incredibly grateful to be one of the small details in your master plan.

We love you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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Day 043 Exodus 39-40 | Heart Dive 365

Feb 12

Exodus 39-40 records the completion of the construction of the tabernacle and all of its furnishings.

In chapter 39, the construction of the tabernacles of the tent of meeting is completed.

Bezalel guides the crafting of the holy priestly garments for Aaron. This includes the ephod and its robe, the breastpiece, tunics, turban, undergarments, and the plate for the holy crown engraved with “Holy to the Lord.”

Each item is made of the finest linens, metals, and gems. All of the furnishings are brought to Moses for inspection, and he declares the work finished, as commanded by the Lord, and blesses them.

In chapter 40, the tabernacle is erected, and Moses gives directions on the placement of the furnishings within.

Moses is commanded to anoint and consecrate the tabernacle and the holy items, as well as Aaron and his sons, signifying their permanency as a priesthood for generations to come.

Moses does all that the Lord commands, and God’s glory descends upon the Tent of Meeting by way of a cloud during the day and fire by night. This would be their signal of departure and divine guidance throughout their journey.

Heart Checks from the video

 HOLY TO THE LORD | Ex. 39

One of the most fascinating things to me is that all of these items that are being declared “holy to the Lord” are built out of materials that mostly belonged to the Egyptians at one point— these were items used in Pagan practices and worship.

I love this because it shows us that God can use and redeem anything for His purpose.

Sometimes we can bury ourselves so deep in the idea of holiness that we separate ourselves by putting up walls of self-righteousness and start declaring everything as evil or throwing stones of judgment, even shutting the door to certain people and look at them with disgust.

Can you imagine if Jesus did that to us when we were living the way we once were? Can you imagine if He deemed us unusable when we were lost?

This is a tough one, because just as the Israelites were called to be set apart, so are we. But we need to understand that holiness does not mean we are somehow better or more loved than those who are not yet saved. Holiness should make us more loving and more kind. We should be the ones who are treating people better than the world does. Yet, you will often see that it's the Christians making fun, spewing hate, or declaring judgment on people. Heart Check.

Are you able to see the potential of redemption in people and things that are currently unholy to the Lord?


IN THE DETAILS | Ex. 39

Once again, we complete a chapter full of intricate details that seem as though they may not have any sort of practical application for us today.

But when you read through the Father’s eyes, you will begin to see that everything He does is by design.

The creation of the Universe and everything in it, the complexity of the human mind and body, the uniqueness of the earth, and yet He still knows the hairs on our head.

He knows our name out of billions of people. He knows every tear that falls. And just as every thread that went into the garments mattered, so does every waking moment and every breath you take. Sometimes we want to skip over these parts or maybe even skip over the entire Old Testament because of “boring reads” like this one (I’m not declaring it boring but we’ve all heard it said).

And usually, it’s because we’re so focused on the end goal, that we miss the details or we get discouraged. But He repeats the details over and over for a purpose—so that the builders won’t miss a single step. Heart Check.

Can you see God in the small details of his word? Or are you only wanting to skip ahead to the "good stuff"?


PROGRESS | Ex. 40:1

It’s been one year since the Israelites left Egypt, and so much significance is encased in this one year of following after and trusting God.

When they left Egypt, it was exciting—it was like getting a new car and going on a new journey. But once that new car smell went away and the roadblocks hit, they didn’t want to go any further. Imagine if Moses would’ve let them turn back when they were throwing their tantrums, thinking that Egypt and slavery was better than this—they would’ve been stuck when God wanted them to move forward into His promise. And this happens with so many Christians.

Our first experience with God is as far as we ever get because once life gets hard or we go through a dry spell, we fall off. And we sort of live in this perpetual one year journey with him because we’re constantly looking for that initial excitement that we once had but yet we never grow past it. We can be a Christian for 30 years and only have a toddler spiritual maturity. Heart Check.

How's your walk progressing? Have you pressed beyond the initial one year excitement? Or are you perpetually seeking that initial encounter?


IN THE MIDDLE | Ex. 40:33

There is so much power in the words “finished the work.”

If it weren’t for the finishing of work of Moses, he may not have received the accolade in Hebrews as being faithful in all that he did.

The Bible is full of faithful servants of God who finished the work. Noah built the ark, Nehemiah built the wall, Paul finished the race, but most importantly, Jesus finished the work of redemption on the cross. We all start out with good intentions. In fact, we have come here with the intention to finish the Bible in a year.

But reading every word and checking every box doesn’t deem the work finished.

Because remember, the real work is in the details. It’s the blood, sweat and tears that are poured out in the process. The real work happens in the middle, which is right where we are today. We don’t finish the work until we take our last breath and the Lord says, “Well done my good and faithful servant.” But the question is, will we hear that? Will we truly finish the work? How do we know what that work is? Heart Check.

What has God called you to do in the middle?


THE CLOUD | Ex. 40

I love that we get to end this book of dramatic events with the beautiful glory of God hovering over His people, protecting them and ready to guide them. They didn’t have the indwelling of the Holy Spirit yet, so this was their way of knowing God's Presence was with them. They could simply look at the tabernacle and see His splendor and majesty. Heart Check.

What is your cloud? How do you know the Prescence of God is with you?


 Deep Dive

 What does “Holy to the Lord” mean to you? How can we apply this to our lives as a royal priesthood?

How significant is completion in the Bible, particularly as it relates to our salvation?

Does God’s desire for excellence and strict obedience still hold up in church today?

Are there still standards that we should be meeting in worship?

How can we apply these concepts to our own work outside of church and worship?

What still requires anointing and consecration in today’s worship?

  Kanoe Gibson's Printable Notes Link


Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank you for finishing the greatest work of all on the cross.

 If it weren’t for you, Jesus, we would all be stuck somewhere, in constant spiritual survival mode while living in bondage to our sin. We are so grateful for the freedom we have today to worship with abandon.

But we also see your heart and standard of excellence and beauty. I pray that we don’t water that down and may we still bring our best when you call us into service. Help us to see the details and the role that we play to carry them out. If there is anything that we are not o£ering with a grateful heart that could be of use for the building of your kingdom, will you show us? Help us to see the need and to rise to meet it where we have the ability to do so.

I pray that you will continue to grow us in our prayer life, for we truly desire to have an intimate relationship with you, and as with any relationship, that requires communication. I pray that our words will be a sweet fragrance to you.

Thank you Jesus for being the perfect sacrifice, and I pray that you will show us how we are able to live out our lives as a living sacrifice as unto you. We know that we are anointed by your Holy Spirit so that we can be a people who are set apart. But that doesn’t mean we are above anyone. If we are going to model our lives after you, Jesus, this means we are here to serve others. Help us to understand that. Our job is to love and to leave the judgment to you.

Thank you for giving us a greater understanding of your word where we may have never understood it before. I pray that we will never glance over the importance of the foundation that you set in the Old Testament. Give us a hunger and thirst for it. I pray that we will read every word with joy, anticipation and expectation of what you are about to speak to us as individuals.

Help us to be diligent in all that we do, but especially in seeking you, for we know that you reward those diligently seeking you. We don’t live for the reward, but we’d be lying if we said we could care less about it. May we never deny a good gift that you so desire to give to us. And I pray that through our faithfulness, that we will indeed be able to hear you say one day, “Well done my good and faithful servant.” So help us today to see what steps we need to take to finish the work.

 We love you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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Day 044 Leviticus 1-4 | Heart Dive 365

Feb 13

Leviticus 1-4 picks us where Exodus leaves off at the base of Mt. Sinai. With the tabernacle now erected, the sacrificial system can now be implemented.

In chapter 1, The Lord calls to Moses from the Tent of Meeting and defines the laws for the proper presentation of burnt o£erings. O£erings from the herd must be male without blemish and brought to the entrance of the tent for acceptance, where the ritual of laying of hands on the head takes place before the animal is killed.

Blood is thrown by the priests on the sides of the altar before the animal is prepared and arranged on the fire where it becomes a pleasing aroma to the Lord. Offerings from the fiock follow the same pattern with the exception of the killing on the north side of the altar. Bird o£erings shall be turtle doves or pigeons with the preparation done by the priest before the altar. The bird is butterfiied over the fire, becoming a pleasing aroma to the Lord. These o£erings would be completely consumed on the altar.

In chapter 2, the instructions for the grain o£erings are given including three di£erent types: baked in the oven, cooked over a griddle, or cooked in a pan. They are to be made of fine fiour and without leaven. A portion of the o£ering is burned on the fire with frankincense as a memorial o£ering, and the rest is given to Aaron and his sons as a food offering. These o£erings must include salt to represent God’s covenant but not leaven.

Firstfruit offerings would include crushed heads of new grain, with a memorial portion being burned by the priest with oil and frankincense and roasted on the fire. The rest would be a food o£ering.

In chapter 3, the instructions for the peace offerings are given. These would be taken from the herd or fiock, male or female, and without blemish.

It is brought to the entrance of the Tent of Meeting and the ritual of the laying of hands on the head takes place as well as the slaying.

The priests sprinkle the blood on the altar, and the fat and specific organs are presented to be burned on the fire as a pleasing aroma to the Lord. No fat or blood is to be consumed by the people.

 In chapter 4, the instruction for unintentional sins is given. If the priest sins unintentionally, he must o£er a young bull without blemish as a sin offering, with the disposal of the offering taking place outside the camp.

If the assembly sins unintentionally, they also must offer a young bull at the entrance of the Tent of Meeting, following the same procedures as the priest’s o£ering.

If a leader unintentionally sins, he must bring a male goat without blemish as an atonement for their sin. A common person who unintentionally sins can either bring a male or female goat or female lamb without blemish as atonement for their sin.

Heart Checks from the video

 ACTIVE PARTICIPATION | Lev. 1:4

Every person who brought a sacrifice brought it for themselves alone.

In fact, the NJKV says “he shall offer it of his own freewill.” He would lay his hands to atone for his sins. Everyone has personal responsibility, just as we are all responsible for our own salvation. No one can get us into heaven by praying for us or accepting Jesus’ payment at the cross. We have to make that decision on our own. And no one can grow our relationship with Christ for us.

Going to church or coming to Bible study is a wonderful thing, but it shouldn’t be the only time you’re spending with the Lord. The prayers we say here should not be the only ones you’re praying because there is a di£erence between corporate prayer and personal prayer. It’s sort of like the di£erence between going on a group date and a personal one. Your relationship grows the most when you spend time alone with someone. Heart Check.

Are you actively participating in your relationship with Christ? Or are you relying on others to put in the work for you?


BEFORE THE LORD | Lev. 1:5

The term “before the Lord” appears more than 60 times in Leviticus alone, and it simply means that the sacrifice was to be made at a specific place in a specific manner, as laid out by God. There was no shortcutting or doing it your own way. If we are living sacrifices, then we are ultimately living our lives “before the Lord” every second of our lives. That will make you think twice about what you do. But does it? Heart Check.

Do you live your life in constant awareness of God's Presence? Are you able to put everything you do (good and bad) before the Lord?


TRUE SACRIFICE | Lev. 1:5

If you’re an animal lover, I know reading through this probably has you either mad, sad, or just plain disgusted.

You’re probably even asking why the need for this. But let’s bring it back—God made it very clear from the beginning that sin would separate the people from God, and that wasn’t enough to keep them from sin. In implementing this sacrificial system, this shows His love for us—He does not want to be separated from His children.

Having to carry out these sacrifices would sensitize the people to the seriousness of their sin.

It would remind them of the holiness of God and the reverence that is required before Him. By bringing an animal of great value, it would prove their sincerity and commitment to reconcile back to Him. It would cost something. And thank God, Jesus paid that price for our forgiveness, but our sacrifice is still going to cost us something—it’s going to cost us our own desire to sin, our selfishness and pride, greed, time, devotion—and it should, because He is worthy of it all. When we devote ourselves as a living sacrifice, we are laying it all down. Heart Check.

Have you laid it all down? Are you truly sacrificing your life for the Lord?


SUNDAY BEST | Lev. 2:1

This term fine fiour means it would be free from impurities and fit for a king. It was to be taken from the best supply of the worshiper. This is where we get the term, “Put on your Sunday best,” because at one time, it was required to dress up for church.

And while we know that Jesus accepts us just as we are, and wardrobe matters none when it comes to the state of our inner being, I wonder if we have diluted this idea of God’s holiness and reverence. Have we lost sight of bringing the best version of ourselves to church?

I’m not talking about a fashion competition here, but each person presenting themselves as fit for a king. Think about events and places you’ve been—proms, weddings, date nights, even church conferences—we make a special e£ort to look our best. We get our nails done, we go to the salon, we buy a special dress, all for one weekend. On the fiip side, we can also look at it as we feel so comfortable before the Lord, that we can wear sweatpants to his house, the way we do with our best friends, knowing that we won’t be judged. What are your thoughts? Heart Check.

Should we still be wearing our Sunday best? Have we diluted the idea of God's holiness? Or has the idea of His holiness expanded by His grace?


PEACE | Lev. 3:1

The peace offering was not to make peace with God—the burnt o£ering did that. But it is to enjoy peace with God. The Hebrew word for peace means wholeness, completeness, soundness, and health. Peace is something we as humans are always longing for. The further we get from God, the further we get from peace, so it makes sense that anxiety is at an all-time high. There is a lack of peace in society. And nothing can complete us the way Jesus can. He’s the Prince of Peace, the perfect peace o£ering. He’s the only one who can give us fellowship with God, which is the only way we will ever be whole, complete, sound and truly healthy. Heart Check.

What are you seeking to bring peace and wholeness to your life? A person? More money? A new Job?


OUTSIDE THE CAMP | Lev. 4:21

Taking the burnt sacrifice outside the camp was a sign of complete removal from the community—the memory, the stench, all of it was to be removed from the camp and disposed of completely. Sometimes we can “forgive” a sin of another but we fail to remove it completely from memory, and still hold people to that when something jogs our memory. Or we will do it to ourselves, where we will get something right only to be dragged backwards when we catch a whi£ of it again and we fall prey.

There may be some things in our lives that need to be taken outside the camp and completely disposed of. Heart Check.

Is there any thing that is still lingering in your camp that you need to take outside? What about something someone else has done? Have you let go from your memory?


 Deep Dive

 What parallels or lessons can you draw from these offerings?

What significance do the roles of Aaron and his sons play? How does that translate to modern worship?

What would a “pleasing aroma to the Lord” look like today?

What might a modern day “grain offering” be?

Can you see the different symbolic meanings behind these elements and offerings?

  Kanoe Gibson's Printable Notes Link


Prayer

Heavenly Father, I pray that we will always approach you with reverence.

 May we understand the seriousness of sin and what it does to our relationship with you. We know that the wages of sin is death, and while you paid for that Jesus, sin will still begin to slowly eat away at us if we do not deal with it. So I pray that you will do your convicting work today Holy Spirit so that we can get right before you as a living sacrifice. We know it will cost us something, but that pales in comparison to what it cost you. Thank you for what you did. We can cry all day over birds and lambs, so I pray that we understand the gravity of your sacrifice. You were perfect. You didn’t have to do it. But you loved us enough to lay your life down. Thank you Jesus.

I pray that we will see and understand what this all means to us personally and how we too are called to be obedient. May we never treat your holiness as something casual. And may everything we do and say be a sweet aroma to you. We know you accept us as we are and that we do not need to work to earn salvation, but we also recognize that relationships do take work.

And the natural response to your grace and mercy is to desire to honor you in all that we do. So I pray that we will lay it all down before the altar—no half-hearted obedience here. Thank you for making a way for all of us.

I pray that everyday when we wake up, we acknowledge that you have given us another gift of a day in this life. I pray that we will bring our own grain o£ering of gratitude, knowing that every good gift comes from above. You give us breath, life, food, shelter, joy, peace, our families, our jobs… it all comes from you. I pray that every aspect of our lives will be anointed by the oil of your Holy Spirit, being o£ered up in prayer. I pray that we always bring the best of ourselves, o£ering you the finest of what we have, putting on our “Sunday best” and ensuring that it is indeed fit for a king.

Thank you for the gift of the covenant—one that is pure, enduring, full of grace, healing and the kindness of a friend. I pray that we will be that for others—that we will season everything we do with salt. Even the most mundane of tasks or the ordinary things in life—I pray we will see them for the gift that they are.

Thank you, Jesus, for being our perfect peace offering. Because of what you’ve done, we are able to enjoy this life with a sense of wholeness, completeness, soundness and true spiritual health.

Wherever any of us are lacking in any of those areas, I pray that we will continue to seek you as the source of our peace and not something else. We believe in the power of deliverance from depression, anxiety, worry, loneliness, and rejection. So I pray that your Holy Spirit will infiltrate our minds and hearts today so that we can enjoy every waking moment with you and as we go throughout our lives.

We love you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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Day 045 Leviticus 5-7 | Heart Dive 365

Feb 14

Leviticus 5-7 continues with detailed instructions on sin, guilt, and peace offerings, particularly pertaining to those given to priests.

In chapter 5, specific sins that require a sin offering are spelled out including being a silent witness, touching an unclean thing, or making a rash vow. Once the person realizes they’ve committed this sin, whether intentional or not, they are to bring the proper sin offerings for atonement. For those who cannot a£ord the female lamb or goat may bring two turtledoves or two pigeons. For those who cannot a£ord birds may bring fine fiour as an alternative. Sins committed against holy items, whether intentional or not, require a guilt o£ering of a ram without blemish along with restitution plus 20 percent.

In chapter 6, the details of the guilt offerings continue, beginning with the sin of stealing through deception, which would require a sin offering of an unblemished ram, along with restitution plus 20 percent. The Lord commands that the fire for burnt offerings is to continually burn on the altar and that gives instructions on the grain offerings which may be eaten by the priests in the holy place. He also specifies how the priests shall bring a grain offering on their day of anointing and declares the sin offering as law while outlining how it is to be prepared and treated as holy.

In chapter 7, the details for the guilt offerings continue with the additional step of o£ering it on the altar for burnt offerings and that a portion may be eaten by the holy priests in a holy place. Sin and grain o£erings would also allot a portion to the priest who takes it and presents it to the Lord as atonement. Instructions for peace offerings are given including the offering of unleavened and leavened bread. They shall be eaten on the same day unless it is a vow or freewill offering, which can be eaten the next day. Meat that touches anything unclean may not be eaten, along with the fat and the blood of any sacrificed animal. Portions of the offerings are to be allocated to the priests for their daily provisions and wages.

Heart Checks from the video

 SINFUL SILENCE |Lev. 5:1

It’s easy for us to see that lying is wrong, but what about when you know something that is being lied about?

This is what has been at times called “sinful silence,” where you may have the opportunity to make known the truth but you don’t.

Because remember, not doing something you know you’re supposed to do is sin. We’re not talking about gossiping or sharing everyone’s business to people who don’t need to know—this is speaking the truth to the ones who are directly a£ected or when under oath.

In a sense, we’ve all taken oath when we told Jesus, “I want to live my life for you,” because He then told us, “Tell the world about me.” We have a truth that needs to be told to a world that is being lied to by the father of lies. Heart Check.

Are you telling people about the Truth or you sitting in sinful silence?


CONFESSION | Lev. 5:5-6

Notice the order here—one must confess before they can bring their guilt offering. Confession is still a major part of our walk as Christians.

We don’t confess because we need to let God know what we’ve done—He already knew we were going to sin even before we did it. But confession is for us to free ourselves from a guilty conscience and condemnation.

When we confess, it helps us to have the right view of sin and its consequences, the right view of God and His holiness and justice, and the right view of ourselves as humble servants before Him.

So confession isn’t just saying, “I’m sorry for all my sins,” it’s acknowledging what you have specifically done wrong, and sincerely seeking forgiveness.

 So confession will sometimes be between you and God, but if the sin impacts others, confession may need to be face to face with them or even public if it impacts a group or assembly.

And James 1:5 says that we need to confess so that we can begin to heal. So if we harbor our sin, it can manifest itself physically. Heart Check.

Are you harboring sin in your life? Is there something that you need to specifically confess to?


MAKE IT RIGHT | Lev. 6:5

Restitution would need to be paid on the day of realization which shows the urgency of making things right before men prior to coming before God.

Jesus commands this in Matthew 5:23-24 when he says to go make things right with your brother before you bring your gift to the altar. This shows how much he cares about our relationships with people. Heart Check.

Is there anyone you need to make things right with so that you can worship without a quilty conscience?


IGNITING FIRES | Lev. 6:12-13

While we are no longer held to these rituals, most of us are still doing all the things to keep our fire burning.

We recognize the need for continual communion and Holy Spirit empowerment. And this is why the enemy will come and try to snuff out your light. He doesn’t want the world to see Jesus.

He wants them to remain in the dark. So all the more, we need to be igniting fires through prayer, through encouragement, or through love, which is our greatest fuel. But the degree to which we have enough fuel to offer will be the degree to which we are fueling up ourselves in personal fellowship with God. Heart Check.

How's your fuel supply? Are you igniting fires for Christ?


BROKEN VESSELS | Lev. 6:28

The earthenware vessel was porous and would therefore need to be broken due to the broth being able to permeate the clay.

So in breaking it, that unholiness would no longer be able to continue through that vessel.

The Bible says that we are earthen vessels (2 Cor. 4:7), and when there is sin in our lives, it permeates to the deepest part of our souls and needs to be dealt with. If there isn’t a brokenness that occurs when we “confess” or “repent,” the validity of that repentance may need to be questioned.

A lot of people will “repent” only when they get caught. But when we truly repent, we are vowing to never allow that unholiness to work through this vessel any longer. A brokenness has to happen for the Lord to begin to restore us. Heart Check.

Has your vessel been broken? Or are you needing to deal a shattering blow to something in your life?


 Deep Dive

 What is your view on the nature of sin, God’s holiness, and the need for confession?

What might be considered an “unclean thing” that we could possibly touch today?

How can we protect ourselves from “unconscious sin”?

What does the continual fire represent in our lives today?

How does the idea of spiritual cleanliness translate to our spiritual walk?

  Kanoe Gibson's Printable Notes Link


Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank you that though we fall short, you always provide a way for forgiveness and redemption.

 When we decided to live our lives for you, Jesus, many of us committed to being better in so many ways. Forgive us where we have failed to keep our word. Forgive us for being silent witnesses. I pray that you will give us the boldness and courage to speak out the truth in the middle of the lie. So many are seeking happiness in this world and are failing to realize that it will never truly be found on this side of heaven without you.

Forgive us for watering down the need for confession— I pray that we will have the right view of it today, recognizing how this is our ticket to true freedom from condemnation and guilt. This is a part of your gift that you have given to us by grace. So I pray that you will help us to realize our guilt and specifically, sincerely, and realistically acknowledge our sin and confess today. We want to be on your side against ourselves. We want you to expose the dark corners so that we can be full of light. We don’t want to be held down by a guilty conscience. So have your way within us.

I pray that we will also have a right view of your holiness and the necessity of our humility before you. Sometimes we can get more caught up in our authority in you that we fail to remember the need to be humble first and foremost. When we get this, we know that’s when true repentance will take place as we turn from sin and strive toward you.

We know that saying the salvation prayer is not the magic ticket, but a true repentant and faithful heart is. So may we never make it about ritual or religion but always about relationship with you so that when the day comes, when we are standing before you, we will hear you say, “I know that one.”

Thank you for making a way for us to be forgiven and reconciled back to the Father. I pray that we never take this for granted. Each day, when new mercies are available, I pray that we will never waste the opportunity to have a fresh start, a fresh conversation, a new day of fellowship. May our relationship with you never stale or be treated as a leftover.

 May everything we bring to you as an o£ering be done with humility, purity, and with sincere gratitude. Show us where we can o£er our own time to serve, where our talent can be useful, or even where our monetary giving should be given so that we can have a hand in your provision for those who minister to us. We thank you for our spiritual leaders who bear the heavy burden and responsibility to lead your people. What a gift they are to us, and I pray that you will fill them afresh today. Protect them from the destructive plans of the enemy. Bless their families and may there be a hedge of protection around them. I pray they will know how much they are loved and appreciated for all that they do to pour into our lives.

May we never take it for granted or expect more from them than we are willing to give of ourselves.

Thank you for caring enough for us to give us detailed instructions on how to live.

We love you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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Day 046 Leviticus 8-10 | Heart Dive 365

Feb 15

Leviticus 8-9 accounts for the ordination of Aaron and his sons as priests.

In chapter 8, Aaron and his sons are consecrated at the entrance of the Tent of Meeting before the assembly. Moses washes and dresses them with the priestly garments before anointing the tabernacle and all of its holy items. A sin, burnt and ordination offering is presented according to their directives, and the priests are commanded to remain in the tent for the remainder of the 7-day ordination period.

In chapter 9, on the eighth day, Moses commands Aaron to make a sin and burnt offering before the Lord as an atonement. They are commanded to call for sin, burnt, peace and grain o£erings from the people to present before the Lord. After the offerings are presented, Aaron and Moses bless the people, and God’s glory appears as fire consumes the burnt o£erings. The people respond in a shout for joy before falling to their faces in reverence.

In chapter 10, Aaron’s sons Nadab and Abihu are killed by the Lord’s fire when they offer unauthorized fire before the Lord. The Lord declares His glory before the people and Aaron holds his peace. Moses calls Aaron’s cousins to carry the bodies outside the camp and warns Aaron and his surviving sons not to mourn their deaths and not to leave the Tent of Meeting. A permanent statute is given to the priests not to drink alcohol when ministering, and they are called to discern what is unholy and unclean and to teach the people all that the Lord has spoken. Moses commands them to partake of the grain o£ering in the holy place and rebukes them for not carrying out the sin o£ering on behalf of the people.

Heart Checks from the video

 PREPARATION | Lev. 8:1-6

Just like any of us who are going to a big event, we all get ready. We take a shower, we get dressed, maybe put on makeup— and God is the same way.

He prepares us before He presents us.

Moses was prepared for 80 years-- both as a prince of Egypt and as a shepherd—before leading God’s people into the Promised Land. Joseph was prepared for decades before saving his family. Jesus was prepared for 30 years before He began ministering. The greatest of people don’t just pop out of nowhere—there is always a season of preparation. And these seasons are usually the toughest ones to get through. You put in hard work. You go through trials. It seems like it lasts forever.

Your spirit may even feel dry at times.

But hang in there—because God is preparing you for something greater. Heart Check.

Are you in a season of preparation? Can you see how God is preparing you for something greater?


ROBED | Lev. 8:7

The second step of preparation was to put on the robe. Each day, after washing up, we choose an outfit to wear.

Spiritually, we wash ourselves with the Word, but we still need to put on our Jesus when we shut the book. We can read all day, but if we are failing to wear the Word throughout the day, then we are completely missing the mark.

Each day, you may need to pick a different outfit—some days you may need a little more patience, you may need to choose to put on joy when you’re feeling like you’re in the dumps, you may need to grab the robe of righteousness when the enemy is trying to remind you that you aren’t good enough, you may need the jacket of gentleness when you’re on edge, or perhaps a sweater of self-control when you running around frantic and need to slow down.  Heart Check.

What robe do you need to put on today?


ANOINTED FOR SERVICE | Lev. 8:12

This is the “big moment” of the whole ceremony—that moment of anointing. They will o£icially receive the power to go out and…. SERVE. Wait, what? All of this preparation and you’re saying we have to serve people? If we truly want to live like Jesus, who came to serve and not be served, then yes. The world is growing up with a different mentality nowadays.

It used to be that when kids were asked what they wanted to be when they grew up, the answers were things like doctor, teacher, policeman—all noble professions that served people.

Today—it’s an infiuencer, YouTuber, celebrity. And while they can indeed be lucrative careers and you can legitimately make a living doing it, the idea stems from what it looks like on the outside. Traveling in private jets all over the world, getting free stu£, and striking brand deals looks like the best life to live. But you know why only 1% of those striving to make it to the top actually do? Because it takes a lot of work to get there. There are dues of service to pay.

And it's the ones who remain consistent in that who end up reaping the rewards. But 99% will fall off once they realize it ain’t that easy to get to the point of being served. Heart Check.

How much of the work that you're doing is work to serve others?


CONSECRATION | Lev. 8:30

Remember, the word consecrated means to “fill the hands.”

But didn’t we just read about not coming before the Lord with empty hands? What a juxtaposition!

Not really—you see, we come to the Lord with our hands filled, but we empty it out at the altar as an offering or a sacrifice. We lay it all laid so that He can then fill our hands with what we need to be able to do the work. We bring our best, He gives better. We bring willingness, He gives instruction. We bring our worries,

 He gives peace. We bring sadness, He gives joy. We bring sickness, He gives healing, We bring brokenness, He gives restoration. We bring ashes, He gives beauty. Heart Check.

Have you put down what is in your hands? What are you going to allow Him to fill them with today?


DAILY GLORY | Lev. 9:6

Notice what is required for God’s glory to appear—obedience. It reminds me of the times my parents used to tell me that if I wanted dessert, I needed to eat my peas and carrots first.

I was not allowed to leave the table until every morsel was o£ my plate. I would choke them down just so I could have a bite of sweetness at the end of my meal. We all crave the sweetness of God’s glory. But He’s telling us that it will show up when we eat what is put before us first. We have to finish our peas and carrots. We need to listen to what He has already spoken before He rewards us with something greater.

It’s in the daily obedience and igniting of fires that we will begin to see glimpses of His glory revealed. Heart Check.

How have you seen God's glory revealed in your daily obedience? Are you simply looking for fire rather than igniting it?


BE A BLESSING | Lev. 9:22-23

The people received a double blessing, but that blessing would’ve never been given if there hadn’t been a cleansing first.

The priests cleansed themselves before they blessed the people, and the people cleansed themselves before they could receive the blessing. And the whole purpose of this blessing was so that they could then turn around to be a blessing to others. Heart Check.

Have you been blessed? Are you blessing others in return?


 Deep Dive

 Why were priests needed in Israel? What purpose did they serve?

Why do you think it was important for the ordination of the priests to be a public event?

Can you see the significance in each of the consecration details today?

How significant is the 8th day both here and throughout the Bible? How is it significant today?

How is the glory of God manifested today? How can we experience it?

What are some strange fires that may be offered today?

  Kanoe Gibson's Printable Notes Link


Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank you for reminding us today of the seriousness of total obedience.

 Forgive us where we have treated your holiness or commands with disrespect or even acting out in complete rebellion. Forgive us if we have ever tried to steal glory from you. And thank you for the grace and mercy that you have continued to show us—the fact that we are still breathing means that we are still usable by you as a living vessel. So I pray that we will be hyper aware of your commands from this day forward, so that we do not miss a step, and we are able to see your glory revealed.

I pray for those who may be coming out of a moment of failure—will you help them to remain steadfast in the faith and to not be discouraged by their own shortcomings or anyone else’s. Help us all to be steadfast in what you’ve called us to do on the daily. I pray that we aren’t looking for fire but that we are igniting it through our obedience.

If there is any sin that may be hindering us from being used to our fullest potential, I pray that we will deal with it today and place it at the altar. Thank you Jesus for your atoning sacrifice. Help us to fully repent and walk away from what may be holding us captive.

We know that we are all being prepared for something greater, so I pray that we will follow every step that we need to take in order to ensure that we are true representatives of the royal priesthood. And when we receive the blessing, I pray that we will turn around and be a blessing to others. May we wash every single day by the water of your Word and choose the right outfit that is needed for each day. I pray for discernment to distinguish between holy and unholy, clean and unclean. We thank you for anointing and cleansing our ears, hands and feet, so that we can hear your voice, serve others, and walk in accordance to your will. I pray that whatever we bring to the altar will be laid out before you so that you can fill our hands with your goodness.

Thank you for the gift of communion and for your mercies that are new everyday. I pray that we approach each day with a fresh perspective and a newness of heart so that we can sustain and continue to grow our relationship with you. Thank you for even wanting to spend time with us. We are so grateful for the 8th day of new beginnings. I pray that we treat every day as such.

We love you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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Day 047 Leviticus 11-13 | Heart Dive 365

Feb 16

Leviticus 11-13 outlines laws regarding purity including dietary laws, laws surrounding childbirth and ritual purity, and guidance on personal hygiene.

In chapter 11, the Lord instructs which animals are considered clean or deemed unclean for the Israelites’ diet. Clean animals include those that chew the cud with a divided hoof including cows and sheep, sea creatures with both fins and scales, any bird not listed, and winged insects that have jointed legs such as grasshoppers or locusts. All other animals are considered unclean and detestable, and touching their carcasses would deem the Israelites temporarily defiled, warranting a special cleansing. God commands them to consecrate themselves, to remain holy, and to distinguish between clean and unclean creatures.

In chapter 12, the Lord declares that any woman who gives birth to a male child will be declared unclean for seven days. On the eighth day, the child is to be circumcised, and she is to remain separated from the sanctuary for 33 additional days. If she has a female child, she is declared unclean for 14 days and must remain separated for 66 additional days. Once she has completed her time of purification, she is to bring a sin offering to the priest so he can make atonement for her and declare her clean.

In chapter 13, the Lord declares that if anyone develops a rash, sore, boil, burn, or any other skin or hair disease, they shall be examined by the priest, who will determine whether the skin is leprous. Those with leprosy are considered unclean. But if the skin does not appear leprous, they are to be quarantined for seven days and checked every seven days until the skin is clear. Once declared clean, they are to wash their clothes. Anyone declared to have leprosy is instructed to wear torn clothes, let their hair hang loose, men to grow mustaches, and they shall cry out “Unclean, unclean,” for the duration of the disease. Priests are also to determine if garments are laden with mildew and deal with them accordingly including burning them if the mildew is spreading or washing them to once again be re-examined for potential cleanliness.

Heart Checks from the video

 CHEWING THE CUD | Lev. 11:1-8

The cleanliness of these animals was determined by both how they walked and what they ate.

Animals that chew the cud and have a divided hoof were considered clean. As Christians, these should be distinguishing factors within us as well. There are many good people in the world who are kind, merciful, gracious, and even righteous, but they don’t “chew the cud,” meaning they aren’t in the Word or they simply don’t believe in it.

Then there are those who do believe in what the Word says, yet they continue to walk without the dividing line between themselves and the world. And if you know anything about chewing the cud, animals like cows cannot properly digest food when they initially swallow it.

So it comes back up in small lumps through the esophagus, and they will chew that partly-digested food over and over again before they finally swallow it. So when considering our spiritual diet, we aren’t just to simply read the word and consider it digested. We take it in, chew on it slowly, allow it to sit for a bit, chew on it again, until it is able to properly nourish us. That’s what we’re doing here. Heart Check.

Are you chewing the cud? Are you meditating on the word and really chewing on it?


DISTINCT MARKS | Lev. 11

In the end, these laws or restrictions seem to be so meticulous, and while they can serve a practical purpose for good health or hygiene, their main purpose is to distinguish the Israelites from the rest of the surrounding nations.

They would also remind the people to maintain their holiness before a holy God.

 We too are called to live differently and to have distinct markers of holiness. We live in the world, but we are not to be of it. Heart Check.

Is your life marked as set apart of different from the world?


CHURCH PURITY | Lev. 13:45-467

While I can understand the heart of God behind these declarations and separations, we know that lepers, while at no fault of their own, were seen as detestable.

Declaring themselves unclean would send people to the other side of the street and they would have to live as outcasts.

We can sometimes experience this in churches—this is what has become known as “church hurt,” where people will look at our skin or our infection and treat us as if we don’t deserve a chance for restoration. If you’ve experienced that, my heart cries out for you.

My prayer is that you will be healed and protected from thinking that all fellowship will look that way. But on the flip side, we can all take part in this restoration of the image of the church. It’s been tainted by failure in leadership, by media attacks, by a clear assault of the enemy. Heart Check.

What are you doing to help build or maintain the purity of the church? Are you building it up or continuing to help the enemy tear it down?


 Deep Dive

 Are dietary restrictions still beneficial in the spiritual life?

Are you mindful of the food you consume?

In what ways are we called to be clean or unclean as Christians?

Why was the ritual for a female child doubled? How does this refiect the viewpoints of gender during this time?

With what was being done in the name of public health, do you believe this promoted cohesion or division in communities? Do you see a correlation today?

How significant is purity or cleanliness in your spiritual walk?

  Kanoe Gibson's Printable Notes Link


Prayer

Heavenly Father, you are holy and deserving of pure obedience and worship.

 Forgive us for tainting that. While we all sin simply because we are born sinners, you have given us the chance to be made clean. Thank you for that. I pray that we will continually and diligently work to keep our lives pure and holy, set apart for your purposes.

We know that things like diet and hygiene are not to be our focus but instead an inward purity and cleanliness. Help us to see your purpose behind the meticulous laws and the function they served, not only practically but spiritually as well. We know that everything you command is for our good and protection. I pray that you will continue to show us what we can do in our own personal journeys with you to maintain that.

Thank you for your Word. I pray that we will take the time to chew on it, digest a little, chew on it again, and allow it to nourish our souls. I pray that we will not binge for the sake of being able to take it all in like a bu£et in one sitting. But may we treat it like a fine dining meal, savoring every fiavor that you put on our plate.

I pray that we walk with a divided hoof, living in this world but not of it. We won’t hold ourselves higher than others in pride, but we will keep our standards high and holy unto you. May our feet follow after that path that you are lighting. And in doing so, I pray that it will mark us distinct.

As the world continues to blur the lines between moral and immoral, clean and clean, give us greater discernment to be able to distinguish between the two. We want to be holy because you are holy. We want to follow after you always, knowing what you have pulled us from. We don’t want to go back but always forward toward your glory. While the lives we live may seem insignificant in such a vast expanse, we know that we are a part of a larger tapestry that you have so beautifully designed. So I pray that we will take our place in that with confidence and never shrink back.

Thank you for caring for our physical, emotional and spiritual health. I pray that we seek every opportunity to be good stewards of our bodies, but more importantly, I pray that we will always look for ways to rejuvenate and renew our minds and spirits.

 If anyone is dealing with a sin that is lurking underneath the surface and about to erupt, I pray that you will give them the strength to overcome. Where sin has spread out of control, help those to grab hold of your hand so that they can be pulled from the place that wants to take them under, and will you render a healing touch so they can begin to be restored.

Above all, thank you for helping us to see the divine wisdom behind all that you do. What a profound message of your grace and compassion we see today, knowing that you love us from before we are even born, all the way to our last breath.

 We love you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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Day 048 Leviticus 14-15 | Heart Dive 365

Feb 17

Leviticus 14-15 outlines the laws for cleansing leprosy and dealing with bodily fiuids.

In chapter 14, God gives instructions on the cleansing and purification following leprosy.

The priest is to examine the person outside the camp and carry out a cleansing ritual if they are declared to be healed. Two birds would be taken, one killed over fresh water, and the other dipped in its blood and set free. The person would be sprinkled seven times with the blood and declared clean before shaving their hair, washing their body and clothes and repeating it again in seven days.

On the 8th day, o£erings are to be made by both the person and the priest for their atonement. Similar laws for homes that have been contaminated by mildew are also set in place.

In chapter 15, God provides the regulations surrounding bodily fiuids.

A man who has an abnormal fiow of discharge is declared unclean. Anyone who comes into contact with him, his spit, or anything he has touched is also declared unclean for the day and they need to properly cleanse themselves. Once the discharge has stopped, the man is to wait seven days before bringing an o£ering to God for atonement.

God establishes the law regarding semen emissions and menstruation and the process for purification. A woman completes the purification process by offering two turtledoves or pigeons for atonement. The main purpose of these laws are to maintain the purity of the tabernacle.

Heart Checks from the video

 SHAVE IT DOWN | Lev. 14:8

The process of washing and shaving would be repeated twice after seven days, marking the completion of the cleansing process.

The shaving held both practical and spiritual purposes—it would not only descale them of any residual disease on the skin, but it would also give them the appearance of being “reborn.”

So for us, this can imply the moment of our rebirth and the need to repeat the process of washing over and over again. Because when we are first saved, there is such a purity and sincerity in our desire to know Christ. But over time, as we mature, that newness can sometimes wear o£, and we can think that our maturity gives us the right to now go around and scold everyone.

But to me, I see a picture of a toddler when they just begin to talk and they mimic their parents as they teach their stu£ed animals. It’s cute but ine£ective and a false sense of maturity. So we have to constantly shave that o£ so that we can always remain hungry and eager for His Word and wisdom. When we do that, the simplest of scripture will begin to take on new life every time we read it.
Heart Check.

Are you still eager and hungry for the Word? Or have you developed a false sense of spirituality that needs to be shaved down?


BLOOD & OIL | Lev. 14:15-18

Notice that the blood needed to be applied before the oil.

The implication here is that the Holy Spirit cannot be applied to an area that has not been touched by the blood.

If we are seeking to be empowered by the Holy Spirit, there needs to be a cleansing from sin that needs to take place first.

 There are a lot of people seeking to be filled when the Lord is saying, I need you to empty yourself out first because there’s no room for me to dwell. Heart Check.

Are you seeking anointing before emptying yourself out? What areas of your life need to be touched by the blood first?


LIVING STONES | Lev. 14:33-42

While this section is speaking practically about clearing out mildew or mold from a home, there are so many spiritual lessons to be learned here.

We already know that one stone of sin will not only affect our entire being, but it will also a£ect our entire household, and this is why those stones need to be removed and tossed outside our camp.

But we are also likened to living stones of a spiritual house—we are the bricks of the church, and we are responsible for the health of it. So if we see a stone that is sick or leprous, there are Biblical ways to deal with it, and that does not include gossiping, judging, or tearing it down.

We are to deal with those people directly, privately and with grace. When we properly clean the house, it’s inviting for others to enter. But if we’re just sweeping things under the rug, eventually that dirt is only going to accumulate more dirt, and eventually there will be a hot mess to clean up. Heart Check.

Is there a stone in your life that you need to deal with, either privately of corporately?


HONORABLE SEXUALITY | Lev. 15:16-18

This is not a condemnation of sex.

We have to remember that God created sex for marriage as a wonderful thing. Not only that, its purpose would serve to preserve the race and the covenant that God made with His people.But just like any good gift, even sex can and is often tainted. My view of sex was so warped because of the things that I saw and experienced growing up.

 And because this is one of the strongest carnal urges we have as human beings, we will often separate from our spirituality as if it is something we can hide from God. But remember, He designed us. He created this, and it is intertwined with our spirit. So our sexuality is a major factor in our spiritual walk. Heart Check.

Does your sexuality honor or dishonor God?


CONTINUAL CLEANSING | Lev. 15

Aren’t you so glad that we don’t have to be consumed by these rituals and regulations?

Jesus actually criticized the Pharisees who overemphasized ceremonial cleanliness. But where we have to be careful is not swinging so far to the other side, where we think that because we have been shown grace in the midst of our uncleanness, or because we have been told that He will forgive every sin, that we can now live so freely that we live loosely and pay no mind to the purity of our hearts.

Prior to the 1800s, doctors would perform autopsies and then work on patients shortly after—and they were finding that there was an alarming rate of deaths among their patients.

What they later found is that these doctors were actually the ones spreading the disease from the deceased to the patients because they weren’t washing up in between procedures. This is why we see strict sterilization practices in the medical field today. Because they know that continual cleansing is necessary. Heart Check.

Have you taken a spiritual shower lately? Are you continually looking for the areas that need to be cleansed?


 Deep Dive

 How is dealing with physical impurity related to our dealing with spiritual impurity?

Which appears to be more seriously taken in society?

Can you see the role of the High Priest in your life through Christ?

What does God’s provision for the poor say about His character?

How can these ancient laws be applied in modern day regarding cleanliness and health?

Do you see a correlation between sexuality and spirituality?

  Kanoe Gibson's Printable Notes Link


Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank you for your commitment to our restoration and purification.

 We are so grateful that no matter how badly we have been infected, you make a way to find us in our isolation and heal us from within. It doesn’t matter how rich or poor we are, you make a way for us. Thank you for that compassion that is so evident in this reading.

We are so grateful that you have healed us and pulled us out of the things that were literally killing us. I pray that you will continually wash us by your blood—everything we hear, everything we do, and every place we go—I pray that it will be covered. For we know that before we can walk in our anointing, your blood must have touched it first.

And as we continue to seek you, I pray that you will expose what might be lurking underneath so that we can properly deal with it. May we never become so desensitized to the scales that still remain. I pray that we always remain in a newborn state of humility so that we are always hungering after your word as if it is the first time we are hearing it.

Thank you for being a God of second, third, and fourth chances. Thank you for the new opportunities each and every day to renew our minds and spirits. I pray that we will be constantly aware of any stone that is out of place or any mold that begins to fester so that we can ensure that our foundation does not crumble or need to be condemned. May we always keep our homes as a clean dwelling place for you.

I pray that we also keep our bodies holy and submitted to you, always recognizing that they are a gift that you have designed to house our spirit and soul while we are here on earth. We cannot separate our sexuality from our spirituality, for it is all a part of your grand design. Help us not to warp the idea of sex and what you created it for. I pray that our sexuality will be honoring to you as we see it for what it is.

Where there has been defilement, we ask for forgiveness and for a restoration of our bodies and the way we view them. Help us to steward the gift of sex and our bodies well. I pray for healing among those who have experienced any kind of disease related to it—we declare a supernatural healing and freedom from them.

We love you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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Day 049 Leviticus 16-18 | Heart Dive 365

Feb 18

Leviticus 16-18 establishes the guidelines for the Day of Atonement, the place of worship, and how to live a life of purity and holiness.

In chapter 16, the Lord establishes the Day of Atonement to take place on the tenth day of the seventh month each year. The Lord tells Moses that Aaron shall not enter into the Most Holy Place without first donning holy garments and bringing a bull and ram for himself and two male goats and a ram from the congregation for sin and burnt o£erings.

Two lots will be cast over the two goats, and the one that the lot falls on will be o£ered as a sin offering and the other set free after being presented for atonement. Aaron is to sprinkle the blood on and around the mercy seat and on the altar as atonement. He is to lay his hands on the head of the live scapegoat and confess all the sins of the people before sending it away into the wilderness. Before leaving the tent, he is to bathe and leave the holy garments. The sin offerings are to be carried outside the camp and burned. This day is to be observed every year throughout the generations and treated as a Sabbath day of solemn rest.

In chapter 17, the Lord commands that any man who kills an animal for sacrifice and does not bring it to the Tent of Meeting, will incur the guilt of the blood that was shed and be cut off from the people. The Lord declares that life is in the blood and therefore shall not be eaten and must be properly drained and covered. Anyone who does not adhere to this will be cut off. When an animal dies naturally and is eaten, that person is declared unclean for the day and must wash to purify themselves.

In chapter 18, the Lord commands the Israelites not to live as the Canaanites do but rather live and walk by His commands and statutes. He lists several detestable activities including incest or relations with family members by marriage, adultery, child sacrifice, homosexuality, and beastiality. The Lord warns that those who practice these things will be cut off from their people.

Heart Checks from the video

 UTMOST CARE | Lev. 16:1-5

God is reminding Aaron that approaching His presence must be done with the utmost care, and not the way that his sons did. This got me thinking about how casually we treat the Presence of God. Jesus has freed us from rituals and legalism, but that was never intended to free us from the way we treat His holiness with reverence. This morning when I remembered this, I bowed my head and just wept, asking for forgiveness. He hasn’t changed. Yes, Jesus gave us access to the Father, where can come boldly into the throne room of grace, and He will not deny us, nor will He strike us down. But it’s kind of like a friend introducing you to their parents. Just because they have opened the door to meet them doesn’t mean you get to start ordering them around. No, we treat them with the utmost respect. And I believe that we can experience more of the fullness of His Presence when we get this and understand what it means to truly fear and revere Him. I guarantee that on the day that we are standing before Him, we will all fall to our knees. But why wait until only that day?

Why not experience Him in His fullness now? Heart Check.

How do you treat His holiness? Do you approach Him with the utmost care in your heart?


SCAPEGOAT | Lev. 16:20-22

The goat that is set free into the wilderness is where we get the term “scapegoat.” For us, we look at it in terms of conveniently placing the blame on someone else who is likely innocent in the matter. This must’ve been such a day of relief to watch all their sins being transferred to this goat. But it was temporary—they would need to do this every year. And while Jesus atones for and forgives all our sin, He isn’t a temporary scapegoat! We don’t get to just set it and forget it, thinking we have another goat full of grace on the way. Or like He’s our personal dishwasher, so we get to just dirty the clean plates whenever we want. We need to deal with that sin, meaning get rid of it. That was the whole point—the sin was to be taken into the wilderness, never to return. Heart Check.

Are you scapegoating your sins? Or are you fully dealing with it at the altar so that it never returns?


 Deep Dive

 What does the Day of Atonement say about the gravity of sin?

How do we continually purify ourselves today?

How does sin a£ect the e£ectiveness of ministry?

Does the place of worship matter today?

How do you view the sanctity of life and the essence of it being in the blood?

Do you believe the practices in chapter 18 are still detestable in the eyes of God? How do you reconcile this with how society views them?

  Kanoe Gibson's Printable Notes Link


Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank you for another chance to view your holiness on a deeper level.

 Forgive us where we have not understood this in the past. Forgive us for the times we may have approached you so carelessly. We are so thankful that because of what Jesus did, we have unhindered access to you, but we know that your holiness has not changed, so that does not give us the freedom to disregard it. Just as we love our parents here on earth yet still respect and honor them, even more so shall we be with you. Because we have the gift of freedom and friendship with you, we forget that you are still God, most holy and magnificent, full of wonder and glory, and worthy of all honor and praise. I pray that we have a greater understanding of this so that we will come back to revering you the way we should. This isn’t an act of legalism but of holy fear.

Thank you, Jesus, for the payment you made once and for all for all our sin. I pray that we don’t look at that payment as a clean plate that we get too dirty whenever we want because we have a dishwasher at our disposal. But may we understand the gravity of sin, and that the wages of it is death. You died!! And every time we blatantly sin, it’s as if we are crucifying you all over again. Oh Lord, forgive us. Give us strength to resist and walk away in the face of temptation. I pray that you will keep us from crossing the line or missing the mark, intentionally or not. But thank you for your grace and forgiveness that you have lovingly given to us, separating us from our sin, as far as the east is from the west. While that scapegoat is a picture of what you’ve done, I pray we never take advantage of it.

Thank you for helping us to understand that sanctity of life that is in the blood. Thank you Jesus for pouring yours out so that we could have eternal life.

While you have given us the freedom to worship anywhere, I pray that you will speak to each of us individually about what that looks like in our lives. We don’t want to live by feelings or by following our heart—we want to follow after you and what you desire for our lives. Even though we are not held to legalistic rituals anymore, we still have directives through your Holy Spirit, so please don’t allow us to ignore that.

Thank you for every boundary you have ever placed in our midst. I pray that we understand that it is always for our protection and not to suppress us. We know that you know us far better than we know ourselves and you know the implications and consequences that these things bring, both personally and societally. I pray that we can be strong in our convictions of knowing what your truth says. But I also pray that we will not be unloving toward anyone who may practice these things. We are not the judge of them or anyone else. We are never called to cast stones, and we have our own planks that need to be dealt with in our eyes, so we don’t even have the time to be worried about other people’s splinters. But keep us accountable to your commands, for they are righteous and holy, just as you are. And because of this, we desire to be the same.

We love you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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Day 050 Leviticus 19-21 | Heart Dive 365

Feb 19

Leviticus 19-21 continues the call to holiness and outlines the punishment that would be incurred following disobedience. Requirements for priestly service are also laid out.

In chapter 19, God provides guidelines and laws for holy living and personal conduct. He commands the Israelites to honor their parents, observe the Sabbath, and avoid idolatry.

He gives instructions on peace offerings and commands gleanings to be left for the poor and the sojourner. He warns against stealing, unfairness, lying, using His name in vain, and unfair treatment of neighbors, workers and those who are less fortunate. He also warns against injustice, slander, hatred, vengeance, and bearing grudges, while introducing the commandment to love your neighbor as yourself. He forbids crossbreeding and mixing of livestock, agriculture and domestic materials and provides instructions on the planting of fruit trees. He prohibits the eating of blood, divination, sorcery, consulting mediums, rounding off beards, tattoos, and prostitution.

He commands reverence for those who are older and love and fair treatment of foreigners. This chapter ends by highlighting fair business practices and a reminder about the necessity of obedience.

In chapter 20, the Lord outlines the punishment for disobedience including stoning and rejection by God for those who practice child sacrifice, the cutting off those who consult mediums or spiritists, and death to those who curse their parents.

He calls for consecration and obedience in the name of His holiness. For those who commit any acts of sexual immorality including adultery, incest, or homosexuality would be put to death. God warns against following the practices of those living in the Promised Land they will soon inherit, and He emphasizes their call to holiness and purity.

In chapter 21, the Lord gives commands to avoid defilement to the priests.

 They are not to take part in mourning rites except for their close family, nor are they to shave their heads or beards or make cuts on their bodies as others do, and they are to maintain holiness before God. Priests are not allowed to marry divorced women or prostitutes, and their daughters must not defile themselves through prostitution lest they be burned with fire.

The High Priest is held to higher standards such as having no contact with any dead bodies including his family and must only marry a virgin woman from his own people.

Priests must also be free of physical defects in order to minister but should they have any, they are still free to partake in daily provisions.

Heart Checks from the video

 FILL THE HOLES | Lev. 19:1-2

Holiness is something we all long for, whether we know it or not.

As soon as we are born, we are seeking fulfillment or wholeness, and as we grow older, the more “holes” we have in our spirit, the more unhappy we are, whereas the more we fill those holes with holiness, the happier we become. When we understand that holiness is the very thing that will fill us up and complete us, God’s commandments will no longer seem burdensome or tedious. We will actually crave goodness and begin to see things through His eyes.

He wants to bless His children—He wants us to be happy—and this is why He calls us to be holy.

It’s an irrefutable principle with God that will lead to a life more fulfilled. Heart Check.

Are you living a life that is holy or hole-ly?


FRESH FELLOWSHIP | Lev. 19:6

These peace offerings were freewill offerings—they weren’t brought out of obligation but simply because people wanted to bless the Lord with thanksgiving and share in that time of fellowship with Him.

And God commanding it to be eaten within two days tells me that God wants us to fill up on a fresh meal each day rather than grazing on the leftovers of His Presence.

Sometimes we can do that—we fill up our tanks just enough to get us to the next destination.

(Remember those college days when you only had $5 to your name so that’s all you would put in your gas tank?). But then we wonder why we’re empty at the end of the day. We’re grazing on breadcrumbs while binging on the junk food of the world. Heart Check.

Are you grazing on stale leftovers? Or is each day a fresh meal of fellowship with the Lord?


DEAF & BLIND | Lev. 19:14

While this is speaking of the physically deaf and blind, the Bible often likens these traits to the spiritual life as well.

We were once blind but now we see. Faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God. So when we look at it that way, and we read, “You shall not curse the deaf or put a stumbling block before the blind,” that tells me that these are the very people that we should be seeking to heal the way Jesus did.

But we can sometimes be so closed up in our own boundaries and holy huddles that we begin to look at the spiritually deaf and blind as if they have some sort of disease or are beneath us, and we curse them rather than love them. But if our eyes are truly set on Jesus, looking to become more like Him, then we won’t be in a position to look down on others. Heart Check.

How do you treat the spiritually deaf and blind? Do you look at them with compassion as Jesus does or do you utter curses and judgement?


FOREIGNERS | Lev. 19:33-34

God says to treat foreigners as if they are native to your land.

When we think of foreigners, our initial reaction is probably to think of tourists or people who don’t speak your language or maybe someone who looks a lot di£erent than you. It is more “natural” (by way of our sin nature) to treat them as if they are lesser or we will say things like, “Go back to where you came from.”

How about when there are new hires or we feel threatened by a newcomer or stranger in our environment? Is there a tendency to put up a defense like a guard dog? Because God says to love them as we love ourselves. We should be looking for opportunities to demonstrate the same love that He shows us. Heart Check.

How do you view and treat foreigners, immigrants, newcomers or anyone who is different than you?


PRIESTLY QUALIFICATION | Lev. 21

In the end, God was not discriminating against those with disabilities, but the ones called into the priesthood were to be as close to the perfection of God as possible.

But we know that the only one who was ever able to fulfill that was Jesus. We would all be rendered unqualified. If we think otherwise, then we are like the dwarf—unwilling to grow because we think that we have reached capacity. Heart Check.

When you look at each one of these qualifications of the priesthood, which one do you need to work on?


 Deep Dive

 How is holiness viewed in society today? How do our laws reffect this?

How do God’s commands shape our values? Are these being upheld or is there rebellion against it?

Can you see the love of God in each of these prohibitions?

Do these commands by God challenge or affirm your idea of holiness?

How do you view the call to sexual purity? Does it have greater implications beyond one’s self?

How might society be different if these strict punishments were still in place?

  Kanoe Gibson's Printable Notes Link


Prayer

Heavenly Father, help us to be holy, for you are holy.

 Every restriction you put in place and every command you ever spoke was always for the good of your people, and that still stands today. So I pray that we can see each one of these as a command still in our lives as we see it through the filter of your heart and care for us.

I pray that we will honor those who have gone before us, especially our parents. Even those who may have estranged relationships, I pray that they will at the very least be able to honor their parents for giving them life. May we never mold you into an ideal that serves our purposes or desires but always revere you for who you are in your fullness.

Forgive us for the times we have allowed anything to take your place in our lives.

 I pray that we will always wake up with a heart of gratitude and thanksgiving, always freely desiring to fellowship with you. You give us a fresh meal every single day, so I pray that we don’t try to snack on stale leftovers but partake in the freshness of your daily bread. When we do this, we realize that the holes in our spirits will begin to be filled with your holiness, and nothing you ask of us will feel burdensome. We want to live that life of wholeness in you.

I pray that we will have hearts of generosity, always looking for ways to open our fields to those in need. You have blessed us abundantly, so help us to see how we can freely give of who we are, what we have, and what we do. It doesn’t matter if we are rich or poor by the standards of the world, we all have something to o£er, so please help us to see what that looks like.

Forgive us for any times that we have ever profaned your name by treating it as common. I pray that we will treat your name with the same care that we treat your Presence.

Help us to be fair and just in all that we do, whether in daily dealings with friends or neighbors or in our own workplaces or businesses. I pray that you will help us to hold our tongue or to walk away where gossip begins to surface. May we not be partakers or dealers of slander in any way, for that is not pleasing to you. I pray that if we have something against anyone, that we will deal directly with them and in a godly manner.

 We recognize our place in the royal priesthood, so I pray that you will help us to remain pure in every way. For those who may be struggling with sexual purity, give them strength to refrain so that they will honor you even with their sexuality.

Help us to be an example to those around us, loving our neighbor as we love ourselves, never making anyone stumble nor ever treating the spiritual deaf with harshness. I pray that we will be a people who love the way you do, with hearts full of compassion and mercy. We love you and trust you with our entire being.

We love you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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Day 051 Leviticus 22-23 | Heart Dive 365

Feb 20

Leviticus 22-23 continues to outline the priests’ guidelines in ministry, the guidelines for offerings, and the details of the seven annual feasts.

In chapter 22, God instructs the priests to handle the holy things respectfully and to maintain cleanliness and purity lest they be cut off from ministering. He reminds them of what would make them unclean and gives guidelines for those allowed to partake in the sacred offerings.

Should an unauthorized person eat of the offering, they would need to pay restitution plus 20 percent. All animals that are offered must be unblemished and without defect, with the exception of freewill offerings. Freewill offerings should be eaten on the same day, and newborn animals must remain with their mother for at least 7 days.

God reminds the people to keep His commandments for He is their God who delivered them and the God who sanctifies them.

In chapter 23, the Lord commands and gives guidelines for the seven annual feasts including:

1.      The Sabbath

2.      The Passover

3.      The Feast of Firstfruits

4.      The Feast of Weeks

5.      The Feast of Trumpets,

6.      The Day of Atonement

7.      The Feast of Booths

These are to be observed and celebrated by the people of Israel each year at their appointed times throughout the generations.

Heart Checks from the video

 GIVE YOUR BEST | Lev. 22:17-21

The reason that animals had to be near perfect is because anything less did not represent God’s holiness.

It also pointed to the coming of the perfect and spotless sacrifice of Jesus. And because of what He did, we are not held under this standard of perfection, so we can all exhale with relief.

We can come as we are. However, we should still bring the best of who we are because He is no less deserving today than He was back then. As part of a royal priesthood, we still handle holy things and should treat them that way. And worship doesn’t always look like heads bowed, eyes closed, and hands lifted. We bring our o£erings through obedience to what God has commanded, through our daily responsibilities, and in the way we treat people.

The best part of our day should be the time we use for prayer or Bible study. We should be honoring others with the best of our kindness and love. The best part of our energy should be used to steward what He’s given us. Heart Check.

Do you put forth you best efffort each day when you worship, carry out your daily tasks and when you interact with people?


WHO IS HE | Lev.22:31-32

This is the first place that we see, in one breath, God declares who He is, what His name is, what He’s doing and what He’s done. I thought to myself, would we have an answer if these were posed as questions to us? Heart Check.

Can you answer in one breath, "Who is God? What's his name? What is He doing? What has he done for you?"


WORK AS A GIFT | Lev. 23:3

Most of the time when we think about work, we think of that thing we HAVE TO do in order to get paid.

But maybe we can see it di£erently when we remember that work is not a curse that has been placed on mankind but rather a gift that God gave even before the fall.

Adam and Eve were called to work in the garden. God worked for six days, so working is one of the ways that we can bear the image of God. Heart Check.

How do you view work? Is it something you have to do? Or something you have been gifted to do?


OFFERING FIRST | Lev. 23:14

Before they could eat, they needed to bring their offering first. In the culture I grew up in, you never show up to eat at someone’s house empty handed. Even if they tell you not to bring anything, you at least bring dessert.

When we first get saved, it’s usually because we’re at the end of ourselves, we’re seeking more in this life, or we’re desperate or in need of something—and the Lord never shuts the door on us.

He welcomes us in, empty-handed or not. But once we begin to walk with Him and understand what true worship is, we know that coming into His Presence is more than just coming to get something from Him.

We now bring something to the table, not out of obligation or demand from God, but because we begin to see what true worship is—it’s an act of giving of ourselves to our Holy God. Heart Check.

Are you bringing an offering before you partake in the meal of fellowship? Are you giving thanks and pt\raise before asking for your wants and needs?


NOT IF, BUT WHEN | Lev. 23:11

Notice the Lord does not say, “IF you come into the land,” but rather, “WHEN you come into the land.”

 This was a saying that my husband and I have always said from the day when we first got married.

Our dream was to live on the water, so every weekend, we would drive to the marina on the island we lived on, and we would sit there with our plate lunch or coffee and declare, “It’s not IF, but WHEN.”

It was a lofty goal, but we believed that God would make a way if we were obedient and if we worked to be able to meet him halfway.

It took three years, but we got there. And we still declare this over our lives, trusting in the promise of God. This is the kind of faith we should have. Heart Check.

Does your faith say, "IF" or "When"?


JOY > SORROW | Lev. 23

In the end, these festivals were very different from celebrations that surrounded them in other nations. These were ordained by God and were intended for rest, refiection, and refreshment. They were not to be drunken parties that ended with broken furniture and trash everywhere, nor were they watered down holidays with easter bunnies and Christmas presents. But what I love the most is that even though there are 2 days of solemn rest or affliction, the rest of the feasts are true celebrations.

That means that God’s economy, joy outweighs sorrow. And the way to sourcing this joy is through a heart of gratitude—remembering what God has done and realizing where He is taking you.

That was the whole purpose of these holidays. So if you’re in a funk, the best thing to do is to increase the gratitude in your heart so you can source more joy. Heart Check.

Doesa the joy in your heart outweigh the sorrow? Is there a depletion of gratitude?


 Deep Dive

What are holy items that we deal with today? How can we get non-believers to respect these things?

How might we profane what is sacred?

What does purity in worship look like for us?

What are practical ways that we can observe and celebrate what God has done?

Why do you believe the Lord emphasized rest during these times of celebration?

How do each of the feasts reinforce the identity of the Israelites? 

  Kanoe Gibson's Printable Notes Link


Prayer

Heavenly Father, you are worthy of our best worship.

 You are God Almighty, the One who saves and delivers, the One who came and died so we could be set free. Thank you for your perfect sacrifice. You are still deserving today of all the praise and honor, just as you were back then. I pray that we will offer nothing less than our best in everything we do. I pray that we will offer you the best of our day and energy. Help us to look at others through your eyes and to love them with your heart. I pray that we give them the best of our kindness and love. Forgive us for the times that we have grown impatient or annoyed and spoke harshly or treated them with disrespect. We want to honor you with our thoughts, words and actions, so that you can be glorified. Our obedience to you is part of our worship and honor, so I pray that we wear that openly for others to see. I pray that we don’t defile your holiness by the way we act.

 Help us to see what holy things we still carry today, and I pray that we will treat them with respect. I pray that we are able to maintain purity so that we can be effective ministers. We know that we will hinder our own ability to hear from you and will block the flow of your Spirit when we are harboring the sin of impurity. So I pray that we will all be washed clean by your blood.

Thank you for making a way for every single person to be invited to your table and to partake in your offering. We are so grateful for the fellowship that is new to us every single day. May we wake up refreshed and ready to know you more, so that at the end of this life, when we stand before you, we don’t have to fight for our righteous standing. You will, instead, present us as your friend, one that you personally know. Thank you for even being willing to do that Jesus. We are so thankful for your friendship.

Help us to have hearts full of gratitude each day, being thankful for all things big and small in our lives. We know that praise and thanksgiving are two of the best ways to resist the enemy, as it reminds him of where he came from and will leave him shuddering. So if we want to fight depression, loneliness, hurt, anxiety, worry… we know that we can do that by staying focused on what we have rather than what we lack.

Thank you for being a God of joy and celebration. I pray that we are able to source that joy from a heart of gratitude.

 Thank you for the gift of work in our lives. For each of us, that looks very different, but we recognize that it’s in your nature to work, and therefore when we do, we are able to bear your image. So for anyone who may be dreading the workday tomorrow, help us to see it for the gift that it is. Thank you for your provision through it. And I pray that we will not run ourselves ragged but will be able to find rest in you and be refreshed each day and at the beginning of every week.

Thank you for the vision of the Promised Land. And while we sojourn through this life, gleaning on the edges of the harvest, we look forward to the day that we are able to enter in. I pray that we hold to that promise of not if, but when, knowing that what is ahead of us is far greater than even our best day here on this earth. But while we are here, I pray that we make the best of it, honoring you and bringing you joy as we live each day with a grateful heart, knowing that as we still breathe, we still have a greater purpose to serve.

We celebrate you today for who you are, for what you’ve done, and for what you are still going to do.

We love you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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Day 052 Leviticus 24-25 | Heart Dive 365

Feb 21

Leviticus 24-25 continues with laws and regulations for the Israelite community, including guidelines for priestly duties, the penalty for blasphemy, the Sabbath Year, and the Year of Jubilee.

In chapter 24, the Lord appoints Aaron to tend to the lamps, a responsibility to continue with the High Priest forever. The oil is to be pure olive oil, as brought by the Israelites.

The Lord gives instructions for the presentation of the 12 loaves of bread every Sabbath day. It is to be eaten by Aaron and his sons in a holy place. The Lord warns that anyone who blasphemes His name will be put to death, and retribution for the lives of animals and people is declared through the “eye for an eye” principle.

These laws are to be applied to both Israelites and foreigners.

In chapter 25, God commands the observance of Sabbath years, where the land is to rest and replenish. Daily provisions can be harvested but the land is not to be worked for profit.

The Year of Jubilee is established, where all slaves are to be set free, debt is to be canceled, and all land is to be returned to original owners. Should the Israelites follow God’s commands, they will be blessed and live in safety. The Lord reminds the people that the land belongs to Him, and gives guidelines on the land buyback.

The people are commanded to care for and not exploit the poor and remind them that they are ultimately servants of God.

Heart Checks from the video

 BRING THE OIL | Lev. 24:1-4

While Aaron had the responsibility to keep the candles burning, there would be no light without the oil. And guess who brings the oil?

The people! This tells me that if we, as the people of the church, are not bringing the oil, the lights are gonna be real dim. Imagine walking into a church full of crabby, stuck-up, cynical people. I don’t care how good the preacher is, the light will be snu£ed out because the oil of the Spirit is lacking.

We have a major role to play in the health of the church. And we aren’t just speaking about what happens between the four walls of the corporate church—we’re talking about the body of Christ in general and whether we are truly being a light to the world. Heart Check.

Are you bringing the oil to light up the church? Or are you snuffing out the light?


RESPECT HIS NAME | Lev.24:10-16

The narrative of this fight shows up right in the middle of the outline of responsibilities, and can seem a little out of place, even jolting the spirit a little. But I don’t doubt for a second why God would do this. Sometimes He needs to poke us in the rib to get our attention. And no better subject to do that with than the one that surrounds the protection of His name.

Why does He take His name so seriously?

Remember, His name is not just a mere title—it’s the very essence of His entire being—it’s His character and His nature. He is His name.

So when a person blasphemes His name, they are essentially cursing Him. But I believe that God is more concerned about how this kills His reputation in the mind of others to where they won’t turn their lives over to Him. So there’s a death taking place, which is why God is deadly serious about this. Heart Check.

How do you treat his holy Name? Are you able to connect His name with His being?


JUBILEE | Lev. 25:8-22

The purpose of Jubilee was for freedom, rest, and restoration. While we don’t have a Jubilee in our own society, we can still apply this spiritually. We may not have physical slaves, but some of us are holding people captive in our hearts and minds—people who have hurt or disappointed us. In a sense, we’re actually the slaves, in allowing them to continue to hurt us by keeping them there.

So this is the day of Jubilee—forgive them and let them go—because this will actually set YOU free! We can also experience Jubilee when we stop trying to earn our way into heaven and simply rest in Jesus, knowing that He is our kinsman redeemer and that our land awaits us! And lastly, we can experience Jubilee when we allow the Holy Spirit to do restorative work in our lives— but it takes surrender. We have to let go of what doesn’t belong to us in the first place. Our lives are His.
Heart Check.

Are you living in Jubilee? What do you need to release in order to do so?


SOJOURNERS | Lev. 25:23-24

Before they could eat, they needed to bring their o£ering first. So just as the Lord is declaring that the land belongs to Him and that they are just sojourners, so it is with our lives here on Earth.

We are just sojourners, passing through, on our way to the Promised Land.

But we treat this life as if it is all we have, and sometimes that means we stress ourselves out in the way that we try to control everything in it. This is why Jesus came to proclaim liberty! He came to cancel our debt of sin, to set us free from the slavery to that sin, and to give us back to God as the rightful owner of our lives. But until we accept His sacrifice as our own, we will be holding on to all of that debt and worry. Heart Check.

How tightly are you holding on to this life as your own? Are you living free as a sojourner or under a stack of debt and worry?


 Deep Dive

 Do you see any parallels between Biblical laws and modern laws?

How does the showbread parallel communion and/or represent our relationship with God?

How might the “eye for an eye” principle be translated today?

Could Jubilee or the Sabbath Year be beneficial in modern day society? What would that realistically look like?

How do these commands refiect the heartbeat of God?

  Kanoe Gibson's Printable Notes Link


Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank you for this lasting reminder that you so desire for us to live in freedom, rest, and restoration.

 I pray that we can get this into our spirits today so that we can stop trying to earn our way to Jubilee. You’ve already blown the trumpet for us to simply rest in the blessing that you’re pouring out. Help us to hear it. Help us to see. And help us to receive it with gratitude.

For any of us who may be holding anyone captive in our hearts or minds, I pray that you will help us to forgive and to let them go, for we know that the longer we hold them captive, the longer we allow that hurt to fester and to eat away at our ability to grow. We are holding ourselves captive when we do this, so I pray that you will give them the strength to be set free today.

We recognize that the earth and everything in it belongs to you. As we sojourn through this life, I pray that we allow you, Jesus, as our kinsman redeemer, to cancel out the debt and worry in our lives. You’ve paid the price for our sin, so we can live freely as we look forward to coming to our real home in heaven. Until then, help us to let go of what doesn’t belong to us. We want to surrender our lives to you, fully trusting in you as our Provider and Protector. From the happenings in our families to the climate of the world, you are in control, so I pray that we will release the anxiety that may be filling our hearts and taking up the real estate where contentment and peace should be dwelling.

Help us to be a light that continually burns, refiecting the Light of the World that dwells in our hearts. I pray there will be a constant supply of oil, not just within us, but fiowing out into the world. We are the ones who are to bring the oil— sometimes we rely on the pastor or minister to light it up, but we ultimately carry that responsibility. So I pray that you will fill our lamps today, so that we have a fresh supply to o£er the church. I pray that we never snu£ out the light with our own bitterness, jealousy, anger, or cynicism. May we be a people who are always looking for ways to lift others up.

The purpose of all of this is ultimately to make your Name great. Forgive us if we have ever blasphemed your name or your character in the way that we have misrepresented you. Help us to always bring you glory in the words we speak, the way we love, and the path on which we walk.

Thank you again, Jesus, for setting us free from legalism. But I pray that we never look at it as an opportunity to live so liberally that we forget our responsibility.

We love you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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Day 053 Leviticus 26-27 | Heart Dive 365

Feb 22

Leviticus 26-27 completes the instructions and laws for the Israelites before they set out on their journey to the Promised Land.

In chapter 26, God rounds out the book of Leviticus with commands against idolatry and reminders on the Sabbath and reverence for the sanctuary.

He promises the blessing of peace, prosperity, protection, power, provision, His Presence, and freedom if the people follow His commands and walk in them.

If they disobey, they will endure consequences far greater including fear, disease, enemy attack and domination, famine, and ruin. Should they continue to disobey, the curses will continue to multiply, as their places of worship would be destroyed, and they would be scattered as a people. But if the people repent and turn back to Him, He promises to remember the covenant He made with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob and not to destroy them.

In chapter 27, God establishes guidelines for the redemption of people and things that were dedicated by vow to God.

These things include animals, houses, land, and the tithe. Should a person not be able to a£ord the redemption value, substitutions and appropriate valuations would be made.

No devoted items or persons could be redeemed. This chapter rounds out the commands given to the people of Israel at Mt. Sinai.

Heart Checks from the video

 FREED FROM SLAVERY | Lev. 26:11-3

God is reminding them once again that He is the one who took them out from slavery and set them free. He did the same for us when He broke off the yoke of slavery to our sin and set us on our feet so we could walk in freedom. We do not walk with our heads hung down in shame because that would be denying the restorative power of God and the fact that He has forgiven us and thrown our sin into the sea of forgetfulness. Heart Check.

Have you been freed from your sin? Or are you still hanging your head in shame with a yoke around your neck?


RESPECT HIS NAME | Lev. 26:40-45

God always made a way for the Israelites to come back to Him. The same way He makes a way for us every single day, as long we are still here, a chance to return and repent. A lot of people ask, “Why doesn’t He just make people good,” or “Why didn’t He just outlaw slavery?”

Remember, before He ever implemented “DO NOTs,” there was freedom to simply follow Him and His ways. But the promise of blessing wasn’t enough to keep them on the straight and narrow. And instead of ruling with an iron fist and forcing everyone to do things His way, His heart is to change people from the inside out. He doesn’t want to force anyone to love Him, because that would be slavery. His heart is for freedom, and He o£ers that to us. It’s our choice if we want to live righteously or not, but we will all deal with the consequences of our choices, and they will either steer us to God or away from Him. If the choice is to move toward Him, the steering becomes a lot easier, like power steering. But if we drive in the opposite direction, life will be a lot harder to navigate. Heart Check.

Do the consequences of your sin power steer you toward God or navigate you away from Him?


VOWS & PROMISES | Lev. 27:10

God discourages making rash vows, but if a person made a vow to the Lord, they had to fulfill it, even if it cost more than what they expected it to. This hasn’t changed in the mind of God—we still should not be making loose promises because the expectation of fulfillment on our part is still there.
Heart Check.

 Have you made any vows or promises to God that you haven't yet fulfilled?


UNDERSTANDING HIS HEART | Lev. 27

Here we round out the laws given at Mt. Sinai to the people of Israel. Some are still having a hard time wrapping their heads around why God would command the things that He did. But hear me when I say that our human minds will never be able to fully understand or comprehend the why on this side of heaven. But the closer you get to Him, the more you will begin to have eyes that are less clouded by our own human understanding and more open to the greatness of His ways.

It’s hard to explain when you’re not there, but this is the crossroad that many Israelites faced—they didn’t understand why God was doing what He did—and most chose to rebel while others remained faithful and were blessed because of it. We have the choice today to either be stubborn and say that He’s narcissistic and throw it in His face as if we know better, or we will humble ourselves and say, “I want to understand, and I am choosing to trust you.” Heart Check.

 Are you willing to grow in your understanding of God as you remain faithful to hearing His Word? Or do think you know better than Him?


 Deep Dive

 How can the command against idolatry relate to our lives today?

How has the promise of blessings and curses changed under the New Covenant? Does it alter your desire to live a faithful life?

How do these commands shape your values on which you stand?

How would devoted items be considered “most holy to the Lord”?

  Kanoe Gibson's Printable Notes Link


Prayer

Heavenly Father,thank you for the standing blessing that we have in Jesus.

 We are so grateful that we do not have to earn our way into heaven, but we also recognize that the call to live righteously remains. Every statute and command that you ever spoke was always for the good of those who were being called. We hear your heart in this today and see the benefit of the laws that you would lay out. I pray that we will all be able to see and hear you more and more as we dig deeper into your word. I pray that there will be an accurate display of your nature and character written on our hearts.

While we may not live among slavery, we still see it taking place on a spiritual level. Thank you, Jesus, for setting us free from the slavery of our sin. May we never desire to return to that life that was so limited. Life with you is wide open and free. I pray that we will not hang our heads in the shame of our past, for in doing so, we are denying your forgiveness and restorative power in our lives.

Every season has a purpose, and we know and fully trust that you will bring rain when it Is necessary. I pray that we never try to force your hand according to the season we think we should be in. But if we allow you to till our soil, cultivate, and water us with the Living Word, we will bear fruit.

Your word promises a plan for our lives, one to prosper us, not to harm us, one to give us a hope and a future. So help us to hold on to that promise today. We know that when we walk according to your ways and with your Presence, we will find that protection, peace, provision and freedom, for it is who you are. The choice is ours, so I pray that every time there is an opportunity to power steer back to you, may we do so. A life lived in your lane is not promised to be easier, but you promise to be on that road with us. That is so much better than the alternative of trying to navigate this life alone. So we thank you for the consequences that will give us that choice to repent and turn to you.

Thank you Jesus for freeing us from the curses of the past. Your love and compassion is so evident today. I pray that we will continue to see it throughout our days.

I pray that we never make rash vows or empty promises to you but choose our words carefully. If we have ever made a promise that went unfulfilled, will you convict our hearts today and show us how we can make that right. We want to be people of our word, both with you and with people.

So again, we thank you, for helping us to know you more. Where there are scales on our eyes, will you allow them to fall off? We know our tiny human minds will never fully comprehend your greatness on this side of heaven, but that’s all part of faith. So we will choose to trust you, regardless of our own faulty understanding

We love you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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Day 054 Numbers 1-2 | Heart Dive 365

Feb 23

Numbers 1-2 issues a roll call and blueprint of the camp of Israel before they set out on their journey to the Promised Land.

In chapter 1, the Lord commands Moses and Aaron to take a census of able-bodied men 20 years and older.

A leader from every tribe is to assist with the counting. Every tribe is named and counted, from oldest to youngest, with a total of 603,550 fighting men. Joseph’s two sons account for two tribes, and the Levites are not included in the numbering, as they are set apart for service at the Tabernacle.

In chapter 2, the Lord instructs Moses and Aaron on the arrangement of the tribes around the Tabernacle, with each tribe living under its own banner.

The tribes of Judah, Issachar, and Zebulun are arranged on the eastern side. Reuben, Simeon, and Gad are on the south side. Ephraim, Manasseh, and Benjamin are to the west.

And Dan, Ashwer, and Naphtali are north. When the camps set out, they are to do so in order, as prescribed by God.

Heart Checks from the video

 NUMBERED | Num. 1:1-3

Here we see the purpose in numbering—to prepare for war. Not only that, it served as a proof of the promise that God gave to Abraham that he would have descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky. It allowed them to know the condition of their army, just as Jesus is always concerned about the condition of His fiock.

How would He know that there was one missing sheep that He needed to go after?

This shows us that every single person matters. We aren’t just a number. This system would also give them a sense of identity and a connection to a greater purpose. If they didn’t know which clan they came from, they wouldn’t be allowed to fight. And as Christians, we are constantly at war and involved in spiritual battles.

So numbering still matters because God does not want us to fight alone. He wants us connected to a greater body of believers, one that will fight with us in prayer, one that will hold us accountable, and one that will give us a sense of identity with the church so that we will understand that we are a part of a greater purpose. This is where we will be able to move beyond the idea of just ourselves. Heart Check.

Are you numbered in the greater purpose of God? Or are you trying to do this life as a lone ranger?


SEEING BEYOND OURSELVES | Num. 1:1-46

The book of Numbers is another doozy to some people—it’s a lot of repetition, a lot of names and a lot of numbers. Most of us have either dozed our way through it or skipped over it all together.

And the reason why is because we are, by nature, selfish beings.

If our name is not a part of the roll call, we want nothing to do with it. It’s like sitting through a graduation ceremony—total snooze fest—until your name is called. So put yourself in the shoes of these families for a moment.

 They’re the ones who went before us to pave the way so that we could have a greater understanding of our God. Without them going through this, we may never have any context of the life of Jesus and why it was so imperative for Him to come.

So when their names were called, imagine their excitement, to say, “Here we are. That’s us. We’re ready.” Heart Check.

Are you only interested when your name is called? Or you able to see beyond yourself and the importance of other people's lives?


SATISFACTION | Num. 1:47-51

If the tabernacle was where the chabod or the glory of God dwelled, the Levites were the ones who were the closest to it. There is a direct correlation with serving and satisfaction in life. We come out of the womb craving satisfaction, and throughout our lives, we are led to believe that if we can just get something to eat, we will be satisfied—until we’re hungry again.

Or we think that we would be happy if we could get a better job or if we would be married to someone else. But the truth is, nothing in this life will bring true satisfaction. Because we aren’t craving the things of this world—we are craving the things of heaven. And until we get there, we will still be hungry and thirsty for more.

So one of the best ways to learn that contentment and to gain some sense of satisfaction is to be like Jesus and serve. It is in serving others where we find supernatural fulfillment, because you fall in line with His design. Heart Check.

How satisfied are are you in life? What are you craving? Are you serving others?


PERSONAL CENSUS | Num. 1

In the end, we see that God is a God of organization and structure, not disorder and chaos. He desires this not just for His armies, but for our personal lives as well. While each one of us are an integral part of the church, everything in our lives serves a purpose of some sort.

 So we should also be aware of the condition of our own personal fiock so that we are battle ready. What are your goals? Who are your people? Where is your time and energy being devoted? Does it line up with God’s instructions? Heart Check.

Have you taken census of your life lately? What would you count as valuable? How does it line up with God's plan?


BANNER | Num. 2:1

Now we are seeing here that identity isn’t only confined to a family name but also the place in which you stand. Each one of the families were to camp under the banner of their respective tribe. Some look at these di£erent banners and relate them to the different denominations of the church today.

But regardless of what denomination you are a part of, we all camp under the banner of our Father’s house—Jehovah Nissi-- God is our banner, our victory from which we fight. But so many of us are fighting for victory rather than from it. And this is what leaves us feeling so defeated. Heart Check.

What banner are you camped under? Are you fighting from your own strength or under the banner of the one who fights for you?


FACING HOPE | Num. 2:3-99

There is so much significance in the placement of the tribe of Judah. Remember, Jesus is the Lion of Judah, and Judah means praise. So how fitting is it that the entire camp would be led by a lion and praise?

And they were encamped on the east side, giving them a pride of place. Because the sunrise represented promise, power, hope and sustenance.

This is exactly how we should be leading our lives—with praise and thanksgiving in our hearts, following after the Lion of Judah, rather than lagging behind, complaining about what’s wrong in our lives.

 And we should always be facing toward hope rather than looking back at regret.
Heart Check.

What direction are you camped in? Do you face hope? Are you setting out each day with praise and thanksgiving?


GOD-CENTERED LIVING | Num. 2:17

The tabernacle sets out 3rd so it can stay at the center of the camp. Everything we do in our lives should be centered around God and in an orderly fashion. It isn't a requirement, but it is a refiection of our life in Him. But it should never be measured against anyone else—our only measure is the standard by which God sets. Heart Check.

Is God at the center of your life? Is your life one of order or disorder?


 Deep Dive

 Where have we seen a breakdown in Godly structure or organization in society? What are the consequences of that?

How might we prepare for war as Christians?

Can you see the significance in the way God arranged the camp?

What is the significance of the leaders of the tribes?

How do these chapters refiect God’s attention to detail? How does that translate to your life?

  Kanoe Gibson's Printable Notes Link


Prayer

Heavenly Father, your power and commitment to freeing your children continues to be on display to us today.

 Forgive us where we have allowed chaos to ensue. I pray that you will help us to get our lives together so that we do not have anything holding us back from your best in our lives. Thank you for setting the stage for the importance of obedience once again.

We see how much you value each and every person, and how we all have a role to play in the tribe of our church. We have all been gifted with a specific character and placed in positions where we best fit. Some may not be able to see what that looks like, or others may have resisted entering that very place. So I pray that we will be more malleable to your will and your guidance to our placement. Show us where we can be an asset in our communities and in our surroundings, and where we will be united with one purpose under your banner.

While we may not be males over the age of 20, being numbered for war, we are all fighting a spiritual battle on the daily, so I pray that we will take a census today of our lives, looking where our best resources are, what we are doing to train up for the fight, and who are the ones who will fight beside us. Equip and ready us for the battle so that we do not fight from fear but from victory. I pray that we will follow you, Jesus, our Lion of Judah, setting out with a heart of praise and thanksgiving each day.

And when we come home to our own camps, I pray that we will set our focus on you, facing our hope, so that we do not drag our families down. Help us to be those who will lift them up, showing them the promise and blessing that comes with each waking moment.

Thank you for the foundation you have laid before us, allowing us to walk on solid ground. Thank you for helping us to see the significance in this reading today, and I pray that you will continue to open our eyes to see the goodness of our God. I pray that we will be teachers of that goodness so that we can be contributors to your greater purpose.

Thank you for pouring into our hearts today.

We love you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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Day 055 Numbers 3-4 | Heart Dive 365

Feb 24

Numbers 3-4 outlines the duties and responsibilities of the three clans of the Levites and the declaration of their substitution for the Firstborn to God.

In chapter 3, it begins with a genealogy of Aaron’s sons and their roles in the priesthood.

The Lord commands the Levites to serve the priests in the Tabernacle as guards, and each of the three clans is given specific duties in the maintenance and transport of the Tabernacle. God declares the Levites as a substitute for the firstborns that belong to Him, and a census of the male Levites, one month and older, is taken, with a total of 22,000. With the number of firstborns exceeding that by 273, God declares they be redeemed for five shekels, with the money being given to Aaron and his sons.

In chapter 4, the Lord declares for a census to be taken of all the male Levites between 30 and 50.

The duties of the three clans are given. The sons of Kohath (the Kohathites) are in charge of the maintenance and transport of the most holy things including the veil, the Ark of the Testimony, the Table of Showbread, the Lampstand, the Altar of Burnt O£erings, and all the holy utensils. These items must not be touched but carried as prescribed by God. Aaron’s son Eleazar is the overseer of the entire tabernacle while taking charge of the oils, incense, and grain o£ering. The sons of Gershon (the Gershonites) are in charge of the curtains, coverings, screens and all that is involved with them. They are under the leadership of Aaron’s son Ithamar. The sons of Merari (the Merarites) are in charge of the structure of the Tabernacle, including the bars, pillars, bases, cords and accessories. They too are under the authority of Ithamar.

The list of Levitical men aged 30 to 50 totals 8580.

ON THE MT.| Num. 3:1

I always find it interesting that God would speak directly to Moses when he was alone— a burning bush, in the tabernacle, here on the Mt.—which tells me that he knew he needed to get away from the hustle and bustle and all the noise of the camp in order to hear from the Lord.

Imagine if he didn’t do this—he may never have received any of these instructions. There may be times where we don’t hear from the Lord, simply because it’s a quiet season. But other times it might be because you’re not finding a place away from all the noise to hear Him. Remember, He speaks in a still small voice. And while He will speak through pastors, conferences, podcasts, books, and the like, the most powerful Word you will ever hear is the one spoken directly to you.

The people benefitted from the Word that the Lord spoke through Moses, but Moses heard directly from God when he quieted himself before the Lord. Heart Check.

 Are you going to the Mt. to hear from the Lord? Or are you only seeking His voice through other sources?


 INVESTING IN THE YOUNG | Num. 3:15

With the many reasons why God may have called for the numbering of the Levites from infancy, one thing we know for sure is that this shows us God’s investment in the future generation. There should be an emphasis on teaching those who are younger than us, both spiritually and by age. We can be younger than someone but a bit more mature in our walk and therefore have a responsibility to teach them as well. Heart Check.

How much are you investing in those who are younger than you?


 UNGLAMOROUS GLORY | Num. 3:32

So far, every one of the Levites had a very specific job to carry out, and they were to do so according to every detail that God laid out.

If they didn’t, it could possibly mean death for them.

And here we have the Merarites, who probably had the most unglamorous job of them all—carrying the heavy loads. But look at what God did—He took what most would see as humdrum work and put a name to each load so they would be able to see the significance in it. There is nothing that is too small in the economy of God when it is being done for His glory, and especially if it is being carried out by plan.

One of the greater lessons here is that we do not covet other people’s work or callings. Because if you think about it, it is the unseen or unglamorous work that often sets the foundation, and I believe will be rewarded the greatest in heaven. Heart Check.

Do You see the mundane tasks in your life as glory unto Him? Or are they simply too unglamorous to be given any worth?


 Deep Dive

Were the Levites worthy of their sacred position? What does the choosing of their tribe say about the character of God?

Why do you think God chose to substitute the Firstborns?

How can you relate to the consecration of the Levites?

What is the significance of the ages 30-50 and does it still hold value in the ministry today?

What are the implications of specific roles given to specific people?

  Kanoe Gibson's Printable Notes Link


Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank you for blessing our lives so abundantly.

You have written the details of our lives just as meticulously as you did with these duties and responsibilities.

Thank you for the reminder of divine order and the deliberate care that you have in everything you do. Every detail matters, and it all serves a greater purpose. I pray that we will pay more attention to the little cues in our lives that your Presence is with us. I pray that we can see you in the mundane, never considering anything too out of our league to carry out for your glory.

Thank you for allowing us to take a small part in your grand plan. I pray that we will be able to hear the specific instructions that you give to each one of us, and that we will be quick to obey, recognizing the sacredness of the call. We know that servitude isn’t always the most glamorous work in the eyes of the world, but how glorious it is in your economy. Help us to have a servant’s heart that desires to fill our unique roles. I pray that we will be like the Levites, who have a zeal for you, willing to stand by your side, no matter the cost. I pray that we take care of our tabernacle, the body of Christ, with the utmost care.

I pray that we treat every holy thing with the respect and reverence it deserves. May our worship not only be genuine but sacred and never a performance.

Thank you, Jesus, for taking our place as the Firstborn, redeeming our lives from a well-deserved death. I pray we never take for granted what you did and always recognize the gravity that surrounded not just that very day, but every moment that you consciously walked toward the cross. You knew what was about to happen, yet you continued moving toward it out of love for us.

I pray that no matter what age we are, that we understand our place and season that you have us in. May we never forsake your calling on our lives in desiring someone else’s. Every moment that we walk on this earth has a divine assignment, so we give you permission to guide us in that as we humbly follow after you.

We love you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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Day 056 Numbers 5-6 | Heart Dive 365

Feb 25

The Priestly Blessing -- Numbers 6:24-26

The LORD bless thee, and keep thee:

The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee:

The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.

Numbers 5-6 outlines community purity laws and legislation for the Nazarite vow.

In chapter 5, the Lord commands that all unclean peoples should be quarantined outside the camp. When a person has wronged another, confession is required once that person realizes their guilt, with restitution plus 20 percent being paid to the one who is wronged.

If there is no one to accept the restitution, it is to be given to the priest along with an atonement offering. Guidelines are given for adultery and a husband’s jealousy. The priest will determine a woman’s guilt based upon the drinking of bitter water and the oath by which the woman swears. If the woman has an adverse reaction to the bitter water, she is to be cursed with barrenness, but if not, she is to be set free.

In chapter 6, the Lord outlines the guidelines for a Nazirite vow.

This vow is temporary, and during this time of the vow, the person is to abstain from alcohol and from cutting their hair. They are not to touch a dead body including their own family members, but if this happens unexpectedly, they are to adhere to a cleansing ritual and bring a sin offering and guilt offering, before starting their period of separation over again.

At the end of the vow, they are to bring a burnt offering, sin offering, and peace offering to the Tent of Meeting, shave their heads, and burn the hair under the peace offering. The priest receives his portion, and the Nazirite is free to drink alcohol. The chapter ends with Aaron pronouncing a priestly blessing upon the people.

 OUTSIDE THE CAMP | Num. 5:1-4

We can read these sections about unclean people and be quick to think that God is so cruel and that He was simply trying to shame them.

But if you know the heart of God, you will be able to see beyond simplistic thinking. We see the compassion and love of God all over the Bible, so we have to view this through those lenses while also keeping in mind God’s firmness of His commands. The whole purpose of this passage is to remind the people about the importance of maintaining purity and preserving their identity—they were to be a distinct people, which meant they do not conform to those who surround them.

So this idea of purity extended beyond just the spiritual—it had to be maintained at the physical level as well. Hygienically, this protected the camp from sickness spreading throughout, but it likely protected the infected from dealing with shame that might surround their infliction, so this quarantine can actually be seen as an act of mercy by God. We can even look at it like a hospital, where they were able to get well. But with leprosy representing sin and death being the opposite of life, the underlying principle here is that if we want to be a Promised Land people, we must remove what will defile us and keep it locked outside so that we are not infected by it.

This doesn’t mean we will never sin, but it means we are not blatantly walking in sin with no regard. The church will never be effective if we are conforming to the world and allowing it to shape us Heart Check.

Is there anything in your life that needs to be separated and locked outside the camp?


RELATIONSHIPS | Num. 5:5-7

Here we see that God cares about our relationships with people. Before entering the Promised Land, the people needed to be pure-hearted, and having broken relationships would never foster that kind of pureness.

Two things needed to take place—confession and restitution. And confession goes beyond just admitting you did wrong. It’s accepting responsibility and not trying to pass the buck. In doing this, you make things right with God. But to make things right with people, restitution must be made. Even when we wrong someone, He wants us to make it right.

If we have bitterness or jealousy in our hearts, He wants resolve. Heart Check.

Are there any relationships in your life that need to reslove? Do you need to make restitution where you may have done wrong?


I.D. MARKERS | Num. 6:5

The Nazirite’s long hair was their outward symbol of their inner reality. This was their identification marker that said, “We are set apart and dedicated wholly to God.” Heart Check.

What markers of identification do you have that shows that you're set apart?


THORNY HEDGES | Num. 6:24

The Hebrew word for “keep” is shamar, which means to preserve, guard or place a hedge of protection around (usually with thorns). In this sense, God is our protector and He does place a hedge of protection around us. But some of us have added thorny layers of protection – we have fences of bitterness, walls of anger, always ready to bite when someone gets too close for comfort. These layers keep us from living in freedom. Heart Check.

What's keeping you? Does the peace and blessing of God shine upon your life? Or have you added thorny layers of protection around your heart?


RECEIVE THE BLESSING | Num. 6:24-27

In the end, we see that God loves to bless His people.

And we tend to shy away from this because we don’t ever want to make the gospel about ourselves. But we cannot deny God’s blessing based upon our own false humility or because of things like the prosperity gospel or what people have said that have countered this beautiful ideal. If we only sit in a place of looking at God’s judgment and never His blessing, we will completely miss out on the fullness of His glory. This priestly benediction has the word “you” in it six times! We bring Him glory, and He blesses us in return, because our relationship with God is a two-way street. Imagine how it feels when we say, “Nope. I don’t want your blessing, I only want your chastisement.” He must look at us like we’re crazy folk. But it’s also important to recognize that because God’s blessing is always for our good, it won’t necessarily be something that will make your life easier. Because a comfy, cushy life isn't always the greatest and highest good for us. Only He knows what’s best and how we need to be blessed. But true blessing goes well beyond prosperity and comfort. And we should never deny it in the name of humility or unworthiness. And denying His blessing is denying Him. Heart Check.

Have you received the blessing of God in your life? Or are you rejecting it because of unworthiness or in the name of humility?


BLESS THEM | Num. 6:24-27

What’s really cool is that as a royal priesthood, we can pronounce blessings over people. And I find that the best people to receive the blessing of God are the ones who have hurt you, wronged you, or the ones you consider an enemy. Because either we will keep them in that space of enemy territory where they continue to be “evil,” or we can watch the beauty of transformation and a person having a true realization that they were wrong and now desire to come to repentance. So the next time you wanna curse someone, try this blessing instead. You don’t have to speak it over them but pray for them. “Lord bless them and protect them from the ways of the enemy. I pray that your face will shine upon them, illuminating every dark corner so that your righteous character will break forth upon them.  I’m no more deserving of your mercy than they are, so be gracious to them. Give them your full attention so they will turn toward you instead of lashing out toward others. Give them peace. I pray they will have wholeness and total satisfaction in you, so they won’t look for false satisfaction that comes in hurting others.” And watch how that changes your heart and puts you on higher ground away from their ability to hurt you again. Heart Check.

Is there someone you can bless today?

The Priestly Blessing -- Numbers 6:24-26

The LORD bless thee, and keep thee:

The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee:

The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.


 Deep Dive

How are the concepts of cleanliness and purity seen in communities today? How do we calibrate that with the way one looks at one who may be “unclean”?

How might restitution still be applied today?

What principles stand out the most in the testing of bitter water?

Is the Nazirite vow still something that could be well-implemented in one’s spiritual journey? Is it realistic?

What does the priestly blessing mean to you personally?

  Kanoe Gibson's Printable Notes Link


Prayer

Heavenly Father,thank you for blessing our lives so abundantly.

We don’t need to wait for a periodic blessing from a priest to receive your favor, grace and mercy. Thank you for the hedge of protection that you place around us so that we can live freely in wide open spaces. I pray that your face will indeed shine upon us so that we are able to refiect your righteous character. Thank you for your tender care and mercy that you bestow upon us, beyond any measure that we could ever use. Thank you for having eyes on our every moment and every need. When we recognize this, it is so much easier to have peace, knowing that you look favorably upon us. So may we bear your name with joy so that it blesses your heart when people see that mark of identification upon us.

I pray that we will live our lives in purity and holiness so that we do not defile ourselves as you dwell within us. We don’t want to ever taint anyone else’s view of who you are, so may we keep all things impure far from us. We want to always have free and open fellowship with you, so I pray that if there is anything that we need to remove from our lives to have that, please show us what that is and give us the strength to do so.

Thank you for reminding us of the importance of our relationships here on this earth. I pray that we do everything in our power to maintain healthy relationships both with you and people. If we have ever wronged anyone, show us how we can make it right and even go above and beyond in order to restore harmony and unity.

I pray that we won’t just confess for the sake of apologizing but truly take responsibility for anything we have done wrong. We know that it's a major part of our own restoration, so help us to see where we have erred so we can be made whole.

Where marriages may be suffering due to a lack of trust, jealousy, or past mistakes, I pray that you will intervene. Thank you for the gift of marriage—I pray that those of us who are married will see it and our spouse for the gift that they are. May we honor our relationship with them just as we honor our relationship with you. Our earthly marriages really should refiect our heavenly relationship with you as our bridegroom. I pray that we never do anything that would give our spouse a reason not to trust us, and I pray against any undue jealousy, for we see how destructive it can be. Thank you, Jesus, for drinking the bitter waters for us, so that we could be set free.

 And as we read about the Nazirite vow and understand the seriousness of it, I pray that we will understand the why behind it—that a life in dedication to you should never be taken lightly. I pray that we will all set that determination in our hearts to honor you with our own lives . Show us what we should be abstaining from so that we can fully devote ourselves without any hindrances or distractions. And again, I pray that our commitment to a life of holiness and ritual purity will be evident to all.

We love you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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Day 057 Numbers 7 | Heart Dive 365

Feb 26

In Numbers 7, final preparations are being made before setting out to the Promised Land.

With the Tabernacle completed, the leaders of the twelve tribes spontaneously bring o£erings which include twelve oxen and six carts for the transporting of the Tabernacle and all its items.

Over the course of 12 days, each of the tribal leaders brings an o£ering of silver and gold plates and bowls, grain o£erings, incense, and bulls, rams, lambs, goats and oxen for the burnt and sin o£erings.

Each day is reserved for one tribe’s presentation, and every tribe o£ers an identical gift.

After the completion of this procession, Moses enters the Tabernacle and seeks the counsel of God, who speaks from above the Mercy Seat.

FAIR BLESSINGS | Num. 7:19

Wait a minute, why don’t the Kohathites get carts and oxen? That isn’t fair! We need to fight for equality! Doesn’t that sound like our society? Always looking at what everyone else has and demanding that we have that too. But look at what God says when He gave the carts and oxen—they were given “according to their service.” He apportioned what was necessary for the burden that they would have to bear and the load that they would have to carry. A lot of the time we only see what people have on the surface without ever considering the burden that they bear at the core of it all. We begin to think that certain people have favor and therefore God must love them more, but if we only knew that with all that is given, there is a greater responsibility that comes with it. Or maybe if you’re like the Kohathites, who have no carts to carry the load, but who get to walk in deeper intimacy because you carry the Ark with His Presence. You walk with Him rather than sitting comfortably on a cart. We may never know what people carry, but it isn’t for us to know. We simply must trust that God is fair and just in everything He does, and concentrate on the things that He has given to us and not let the blessings of others distract us from what matters most. Because in the end, we won’t be rolling up to the bema seat of Christ with our oxen and carts. We will all be standing on equal footing before Him with our hearts exposed. And it is there where we will receive the real reward that will last for eternity. Heart Check.

What are you focused on? Your blessings or everyones ele's?


SLAVE VS. PROMISED LAND MENTALITY | Num. 7:12-17

When the Israelites left Egypt, they had a slave mentality—they left Egypt taking rather than giving. But God has taught them valuable lessons on His provision and now they have a Promised Land mentality. Instead of looking for what they can take, they’re looking at what they can give before they set out. Because when you’re scavenging, it’s usually fueled by fear, whereas trusting in God’s provision is fueled by faith.  Heart Check.

Do you hane a slave mentality or a Promised Land mentality? Do you jump to get to the front of the line, or patiently wait in the back?


HUMBLE GIVING | Num. 7:18-23

Not only were the Israelites generous in their giving, but they gave humbly. No one was trying to showboat and bring a greater gift than the other. They all brought the same things, so that no one would outshine the other. This proved that they were setting out in unity. Jesus said that when we give, we shouldn’t let the left hand know what the right hand is doing, meaning we don’t need to tell everyone how generous we are. The only one who needs to know what we’re doing is God, and He will reward that type of giving. Heart Check.

When you serve or give to others, are you doing it to be seen and rewarded, or you doing it from a place of humility?


GIVING IDENTITY | Num. 7:18-23

This chapter could’ve easily been reduced to “every leader of every tribe brought forth one silver plate, one silver basin, a grain offering, one golden dish with incense, a burnt offering, a sin offering, and a peace offering.” Why did He need to repeat the same thing for every person? Because every gift matters. He isn’t up there hoarding all our gifts and throwing them into a bin, saying, “Thanks everyone.” He sees everything you do and everything you give, even when others don’t. And He’s putting it into heaven’s accounting log, so that when you stand before Him, He will repay you. Nothing that you ever do for His glory will be done in vain. He even says that He will reward a cup of cold water that is given! But secondly, when God repeats anything in the Bible, we best pay attention. And I do not, for a second, doubt His purpose of this repetition about giving—because our entire eternal destiny hinges on the fact that He GAVE His one and only Son. He is the greatest giver of all. So if we truly want to be more like Him, one of the best things that we can do is give. When we do that, our hearts will be more set on heaven rather than here on earth, because where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Heart Check.

Who do you identify with more? the one who gives generously? Or the one who takes, steals, and robs from others.


 Deep Dive

 What lessons can we learn from the system of these o£erings?

How does this speak to the consistency in our own faith?

What would be modern equivalents to these o£erings?

How can the unity of the tribes’ giving be modeled in today’s church?

How does Moses’ approach to God speak to our approach in prayer?

 

  Kanoe Gibson's Printable Notes Link


Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank youfor modeling what generous giving looks like.

 Thank you, most of all, for the gift of Jesus, which gave us not only eternal life, but the ability to come freely into your Presence. I pray that we understand that while you welcome us with open arms, that there is still a way in which we are to come. And the only way is through Jesus. It’s only because of the atonement that was made, that we can enter in. So thank you Jesus. We are grateful that you are our Mediator, who we always have access to.

Thank you for the faith and dedication that the Israelites so vividly displayed here. I pray that we will have the same kind of generosity and faithfulness when we give to others.

Help us to break free from the slave-mentality, where we are quick to grab and slow to share. I pray that we will, instead, have a Promised Land mentality, knowing and fully trusting that you will provide for our every need, and when we give, we know that it is not being done in vain. When we give with a generous and cheerful heart, we know that it is not lost on you. You see every move we make, every ounce of energy, time, and talent that we pour forth, and it is not being wasted. So help us to focus on eternity, allowing our treasures to be stored up in heaven, so that our hearts will follow suit. We want to be a people who are focused heavenward and not only on what surrounds us.

This is all temporary, but with you, all things are measured against eternity. I pray that when we do give or serve, it is always done with a humble heart, not seeking to be seen or acknowledged by anyone other than you.

Thank you for the Levites, who so faithfully served, carrying their burdens and their loads according to the instructions that you gave. I pray that we will be like that. May we not focus on what the person next to us is doing or what they have, because that is the quickest way to trip ourselves up. So help us to be grateful for the blessings that you have given to us, according to our service. I pray that when we do see the blessings of others, that we will also be able to appreciate the heavy load that they likely carry with it. You are a fair and just God, and we trust in that today.

Thank you, Holy Spirit, that we can hear your voice that speaks from the Mercy Seat within our own hearts.

We love you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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Day 058 Numbers 8-10 | Heart Dive 365

Feb 27

Numbers 8-10 mark the final events at Mt. Sinai before the people of Israel set out to the Promised Land.

In chapter 8, God gives Moses and Aaron instructions on the arrangement of the golden lampstand with the light shining forward, and Aaron carries this out as instructed. The Lord outlines the purification and cleansing rites of the Levites which includes shaving their bodies, washing their clothing, and providing a sin and burnt o£ering. Their dedication continues with the people laying their hands upon the Levites, and the Levites doing the same with the bulls. The Levites are presented as a wave o£ering before the Lord and dedicated for service in the Tabernacle. This service begins for every male Levite at the age of 25 until reaching retirement at the age of 50, when they will continue ministering but not performing duties in the Tabernacle.

In chapter 9, the Israelites celebrate their second Passover, following all prescribed details as instructed by God. Guidance for an additional Passover is given for those who may become unclean and miss the initial Passover. This celebration is open to both the sojourner and the native. God provides divine guidance to the Israelites through a pillar of cloud by day and fire by night.

The movement of the cloud determines their setting out and staying put.

In chapter 10, the Lord establishes the trumpet calls for the camp. When two trumps sound, the entire camp is to assemble, and when only one sounds, only the leaders are to gather. Other trumpet blasts serve as battle alarms as well as the commencement of festivals and sacrifices. The Israelites then set out to the wilderness of Paran, with each tribe following the order placed by God.

Moses invites his brother-in-law Hobab to come with them, promising God’s favor in return for his guidance through the wilderness. But Hobab refuses and seeks to return to his homeland. The chapter ends with a reminder of the divine guidance of God and the people’s trusting response.

 FACING FORWARD | Num. 8:1-4

Just as meticulously as the crafting of the lampstand was to be done, so was the placement of it within the Tabernacle. It was to be placed on the south side, with the light facing forward, toward the Altar of Incense. It was the only light source within the Tabernacle and was to burn continually. This is not random.

When God spoke in the beginning, “Let there be light,” there was a separation that took place between the light and the dark. This is why He commands the light to face forward and northward. Because once we receive Jesus, who is the Light of the World, we are separated from the darkness in which we once lived. We are no longer tethered to it.

This is why the darkness of our past can never determine our future—because it is behind us. It does not light the way. God’s Word and His promise is the lamp unto our feet and the light unto our path. He wants us facing forward and moving forward. The moment we start going backwards, living in the shoulda coulda wouldas, we will start stumbling around and tripping over our own feet because there’s no light back there.

The only light is in front of us. So look up. Start believing for the greater things in front of you. And don’t wait for a handout, reach out and grab hold of it. Heart Check.

Are you stumbling around in the dark of thr past? Or are you following the light that is facing forward?


LIGHT SOURCE | Num. 8:1-4

Secondly, when Jesus declared us to be the light of the world, the city on the hill, a lamp not to be hidden but on a stand, He painted this picture of the church as the lampstand. But remember, we are not the source of the light. The source comes from the oil or the Spirit of God. When He tells us to let our light shine before others, it is always to be done so that it glorifies our Father in Heaven (Matthew 5:14-16). The only way that will ever happen is if we are simply providing the stand on which His light shines.

We are a mere reflection of His light. One of the reasons why so many people are living in darkness is because the source of the light is all wrong. They’re seeking significance within themselves, looking for approval from other people or from their success, and what happens is we become our own hindrance, blocking the light rather than being the light. Heart Check.

What are you sourcing your light? Are you blocking it or allowing it to shine from heaven through you?


LIGHT + HOLINESS | Num. 8:1-14

When we look at the first four verses of this chapter, it may have seemed a little out of place—lamps sandwiched between the giving of the gifts and the cleansing of the Levites. But God doesn’t do anything by accident, and here’s how I see it. God has given us the most precious gift of grace and eternal life. But once we receive that gift, we need a path that is illuminated so that we can distinguish our steps and the way that we should walk in that life that is set apart and non-conforming to the world. But you cannot have one without the other. The church needs both light and holiness. Because if you only claim holiness and non-conformity with no light, then we will be self-righteous, condemning and judgmental. But if we only have light and don’t separate from the world, then we lead a life of compromise and misrepresent God as one who doesn’t view sin as seriously as He does. When Jesus corrected people and laid down the truth, it was always done with love and mercy and kindness.He never condemned. He stood firm on the truth while weeping over Jerusalem. He prayed for broken communities rather than simply highlighting their sin. He died for a broken world, which includes every one of us .Heart Check.

Do you have both light and holiness in your heart? Do you weep over and pray for those who are broken or only foucus on their sin? Or on the flip side, do you compromise in watering down God's truth?


RETIREMENT | Num. 8:23-26

I’m sure many of us are thinking, wow, I sure would love to retire at 50. But while the Levites were to retire from the physical labor, they still continued to serve and minister. But the way the world paints the picture of retirement, it either markets it at a poolside in a sunny destination or retirement communities.

And while I do believe that we should absolutely be able to enjoy our retirement years in leisure, I have also seen a rapid decline in a person when they stop pouring into others. There is something to say for the vitality of life coming from serving, mentoring, or teaching. And if wisdom is with the aged and understanding in the length of days (Job 12:12), we have a whole lot within us when we reach retirement to give unto others. Heart Check.

What does your retirement look like? Does it include the continuation of serving in the same way? Or does all work cease?


PURPOSE IN THE PRESENT | Num. 9:15-23

Here we have a covenant people, organized, ordered, cleansed, set apart, blessed, provided for, given specific instructions… and yet they still need divine guidance by way of cloud in order to make it to Promised Land. When it moved, they moved. When it stopped, they stopped. And waiting for it to pick up again could sometimes mean months. But they needed to wait, because they were only to be where the Presence of God led. Let’s not miss this—because most of us are always asking, “What next, Lord?

Where do you want me to go?” I get it—I’m a visionary, so I see things and quickly want to move ahead. But I have had to learn to be still when He is so I don’t miss the purpose in the present. So we really should be asking, “What do you want me to do right now while I’m here,” instead of looking for the next step. Heart Check.

Are you always looking for what what's next? Or are you seeking to know what to do in the here and now?


TRUMPET CALLS | Num. 10:1-10

The trumpets served several purposes here—to gather the people together, to mobilize them, then send them into battle, and for celebration of the feasts and festivals.

Ultimately, this was their system of mass communication because imagine trying to tell millions of people without cell phones what to do. But we face a dilemma of the opposite nature. We do have cell phones and all sorts of noise going on around us, so it lends to serve this Heart Check.

Amid all noise in your life, are you able to determine God's trumpet calls?


 Deep Dive

 How can we apply the dedication of the Levites to our own lives?

Which aspects of the dedication service are still applicable?

Is the age 30-50 still relevant? In what way?

What might be a pillar of cloud/fire that guides us today? How important is it still for us to follow this?

How significant is the allowance of foreigners to celebrate the Passover? How is this represented in the church today?

Do you believe Moses asking for Hobab’s guidance was a lapse in faith?

  Kanoe Gibson's Printable Notes Link


Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank you again for your divine guidance in our lives.

 We are so grateful to be a part of the covenant people, who you have called, cleansed, purified, set apart, blessed, provided for, and have given us eternal instructions through your Word. I pray that we never lag behind or even try to move ahead of your Presence. We know that your timing is perfect, so I pray that we will never grow impatient in seasons of waiting for you to move.

Help us to hear your calls above all the noise in this world. The enemy wants nothing more than to keep our ears clogged with every other frequency but yours. So I pray that we stay tuned in so that we never miss a call to gather, to set out, to fight, and to celebrate. Thank you for never leaving us to do any of that alone.

I pray that we continue to keep our eyes focused forward, in the place that you have illuminated for us, never looking backwards at the coulda shoulda wouldas, for we know that regret will never lead us into promise. But the promise of your Word will light the way into your purpose. And as we walk in that light, may we also be the refiective surface by which the entire world sees your glory. May we never stand in the way of that, trying to soak up all the light for ourselves and ultimately ending up in the darkness. For anyone fighting through the darkness of depression today, I pray that you will illuminate every dark corner of their lives and break the bondage of that spirit that holds them down. Set them free today in the name of Jesus. For those who may feel lost, I pray that you will grab a hold of their hand and divinely guide them to where they need to be. And for those of us who are pushing to set out but feel stuck, help us to recognize whether or not we are trying to set out when the cloud has not yet lifted. I pray that you will speak to our hearts and show us what we need to do in the here and now so we can find our purpose in the present.

But I pray that when you do say to move, that we don’t get stuck in the place of preparation, or the fear of not being ready, because the reality is, we will never be ready enough, but with you, all things are possible. You are our strength. You are the Waymaker, the one who makes it possible. So I pray that we do not sit back waiting for an opportunity or a handout, but may we reach out when we see it out in front of us.

I pray that we will live our lives with both light and holiness, never straying too far to the left or right, where we get caught up in legalism or thinking that because we are not walking in the sin of others, that we are somehow now the judge over their lives.

 May we not be people who condemn, but ones who carry your heart Jesus.

I pray that we will be the light of the world, loving people, showing them mercy and kindness, weeping over them, praying for them, and bringing them in rather than shutting them out. Forgive us where we may have done that.

But I also pray that we do not operate in a mindset that because love covers a multitude of sins, that it means sin no longer exists. It is still just as serious as it was when you pronounced it in your word, so may we never stray from standing firmly in your truth. For we know that your standard of holiness has not changed from day 1. You have simply given us more chances than we deserve to align ourselves with it. Thank you for that.

And while we are in our prime, with the ability to do the work, I pray that we will show up each day with eager hearts and willing hands. For those who are now in the retirement phase of life, I pray for continual strength and wisdom to pour out of them, keeping them vibrant until the day you call them home. Help us all to be a people who desire to mentor and teach others in your ways. We know that in doing so, we will store up treasure in heaven as we invest others while here on this earth.

We love you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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Day 059 Numbers 11-13 | Heart Dive 365

Feb 28

Numbers 11-13 marks the beginning of the complaining in the wilderness and the first survey of the Promised Land.

In chapter 11, the Israelites begin complaining about their discomfort and an angry fire from God destroys some of the outlying parts of the camp. Moses prays, and the fire abates, but the people begin complaining again about the extravagant meals they once had in Egypt. An angry Moses cries out to the Lord, even asking God to mercifully kill him in order not to have to bear their burden. The Lord instructs Moses to gather seventy elders, to whom He will give some of the burden and relieve Moses from bearing it alone. Two men in the camp begin prophesying, bringing concern to Joshua. But Moses assures him that he is pleased and wishes for all men to prophesy. God sends an overabundance of quail to the camp, and in the middle of their greedy feasting, they are stricken with a plague. The place is named

Kibroth-hattaavah meaning “graves of craving,” as those who had the craving die here.

In chapter 12, Moses’ sister Miriam and Aaron criticizes Moses’s Cushite wife while questioning Moses’ God-given authority. When God hears this, he summons them to the Tent of Meeting and speaks to them about his direct and intimate communication with Moses while speaking to other prophets through dreams and visions. The Lord punishes Miriam with leprosy for being disrespectful, and when Aaron and Moses plead with God for her healing, God commanded that she be exiled for seven days until she is healed.

In chapter 13, the Lord tells Moses to send the twelve chiefs of the tribes to survey the Promised Land. He gives them specific parameters on what to look for—the condition of the people, land and cities—and asks for fruit to be brought back. When the spies return after 40 days, they bring a cluster of fruit to display the fruitfulness of the land. However, they also carry with them a discouraging report about the strong people, fortified cities, and the presence of Nephilim. Caleb encourages the people, declaring their ability to overtake them, but the other men carry the bad news to the rest of the nation, invoking fear within them.

ROMANTICIZING THE PAST | Num. 11:4-6

Here they go, looking back at the good ol’ days through rose colored glasses, dreaming about the filet mignon and crème brulee that they once had and forgetting all about the oppression and slavery they were under. They’re romanticizing the past while exaggerating the present day issues. That’s exactly what the devil will do—because remember, there’s no light behind us, so the enemy will come in and disguise himself as an angel of light, illuminating only the good things of the past so he can try to lure you back there so that you won’t move forward. But we know that God’s best is always in front of us. If it wasn’t, we would no longer be here. And He withholds no good thing from those who walk uprightly (Psalm 84:11), so if He is keeping something from us, it’s because it simply isn’t the best thing for us. He knows that if He feeds them bu£ets everyday, they’re going to become gluttonous and sluggish and won’t have the strength they need to move forward. Heart Check.

Do you find yourself romanticizing the past and exaggerating your present problems? Or can you see that the best is still in front of you?


DAILY BOREDOM | Num. 11:6-10

One of the greatest annoyances as a parent is when my kids say, “We’re bored,” after I’ve just taken them roller skating, to eat pizza and ice cream, boarded a rocket ship, went to the moon, came back—and yet it still isn’t enough. And I think to myself, my parents never entertained me—that was our job as kids—and we were happy drawing on our feet and digging in the dirt. But the more you get, the more you want. And with God taking them out of the brick baking business and away from wear they had to drown children in the Nile. Plus, He’s providing perfectly nutritious donuts every single day, but because they no longer have heavenly taste buds, they can’t appreciate heavenly food, and they are becoming more dissatisfied. They are bored with what God has given them and therefore going back to that slave mentality. Heart Check.

But we have to remember that it is not God's job to entertain us. Heart Check. Have you become bored of your daily blessings?


OFFERING SOLUTIONS | Num. 11:10-15

One of the quickest ways to sap the life out of a person is to complain. We’re not talking about offering suggestions or constructive criticism that is presented with a bow of grace on it. We’re talking about our quick fingers that jump on yelp when our food is not up to par, just for the mere sake of complaining because we can. This is plain ol’ “I don’t like this” and o£ering zero solutions. So if you think about it this way, if we know that complaining tears down, then we’re straight working for the devil who comes to steal, kill and destroy. So if you ever have a complaint in your spirit, consider this first. And think about how you can offer a solution with your complaint or present it in a way that will build up instead of tear down. Israelites could’ve gone looking or hunting for meat, but they didn’t. They just whined about it and expected Moses to spoon feed them. Heart Check.

Do you look for the solution before offering your complaints?


GET WHAT YOU ASK FOR | Num. 11:18

Fill in the blanks if you have ever heard or said this… “Stop your crying or

        .” (Cheat code: “I’ll give you something to cry about.”) That’s exactly what happened here. Even though it wasn’t the best thing for them, God gave in and let them have exactly what they wanted. And in the end, they think they’re crying now, but they will be crying over a much greater pain once they get what they think they want.

This is why we have to trust in God’s will for our lives—because He knows what’s best despite what we think or despite our own cravings or wants. Heart Check.

Are you asking for God's will in your life or giving Him orders on what you think is best? Are you prepared to get what you ask for?


ENVY | Num. 12:9

It is very clear that envy grieves the heart of God, because it’s us saying, “Why them and not me? You gave that gift to the wrong person. You messed up.” Heart Check.

Do you ever find yourself feeling as though you should have been the one to be given something someone else has? Or are you able to rejoice with those who rejoice?


 Deep Dive

Why is complaining so prevalent in human nature?

What does the appointment of the 70 elders show us about God’s heart for leadership? How can you apply it to your life?

How can we overcome cravings or greed?

What does Moses’ response to Aaron and Miriam show about his character?

How does Moses’ position shape your understanding of God’s sovereignty in choosing leadership?

Do you believe Moses made a mistake in sending the spies to Canaan?

   Kanoe Gibson's Printable Notes Link


Prayer

Heavenly Father, we set our eyes on you today.

 For anyone who is facing giants or seeing impossible situations that seem to have impenetrable walls, I pray that you will lift their heads up to see you standing above all of it. Because you have promised to bring us into the Promised Land, we have no reason to waiver and shake in our boots as we make our way through the wilderness of life. But sometimes our human emotions can take over, so I pray that you will bolster our faith today. Help us to trust that what you have spoken will never return void. We know that you will never leave us or forsake us and that no weapon that forms against us can prosper. So where we see problems, we will see the problem solver. Where we see giants, we will see the giant slayer. Where we see walls, we also see walls tumbling down. Thank you for that vision today and reminding us that you are in control. May our faith overtake our fear every single day.

Forgive us where we have doubted, been cynical or skeptical, complained about our lack, or been critical of where we are. We don’t want to be remembered that way. We want to be remembered as a people who trusted, encouraged, people who were faithful and showed others that they too could walk into their promise.

So as we continue marching forward today, I pray that we will not romanticize our past, or look back at what once was or what we once had, but fully trust in the better days ahead of us. As long as we are still breathing, the best is yet to come. We know and trust that you are giving us everything we need to sustain us each day, so I pray that we trust in that and do not look at what everyone else has. I pray that we do not grow bored of our own blessings, where we begin to crave or envy what others have. Forgive us where we have done so. Help us to see what we have been given and show us how we can turn it around to be a blessing to others.

I pray that you will remove the spirit of complaining from us today. We want to be life givers, not life sappers. And I pray that when we do have a desire to complain, that you will show us the root of what we’re really dealing with. Or show us how we can be a solution rather than simply presenting a problem.

Forgive us for ever ordering you to fulfill our desires. We know and trust that you know what’s best for us, so I pray that we will yield our lives fully to you today. May we always have a spirit that cries out, “Your will be done.” I pray that we can find true satisfaction and fulfillment in you. Forgive us where we have ever questioned why you have given someone else something that we wanted or where we have questioned anything you’ve done while implying that you made some sort of mistake. You don’t make mistakes. Everything you do is purposeful and for our good. We trust in that today.

We love you. In Jesus' name. Amen.

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