Trusting God Always

 Exodus 39-40     Leviticus 1-4       Psalm 47, 125    Proverbs 1          Acts 20-22

In the last two chapters of Exodus the work the people of God did under the direction of Moses is summarized and the tabernacle is ready and becomes the place that God’s Spirit leads the people in the form of a cloud or fire. This would be the guiding presence as they move toward the land God had promised them.

In the opening chapters of Leviticus God begins to outline the sacrifices that are expected when different parts of the community sin. It should be noted that as each group of people sin the sacrifice is according to their ability to give the offering. It is also important to notice that the one seeking forgiveness is an active participant in the sacrifice. In each case it is noted that the sin will be forgiven.

The Psalms I read today remind us that God always is surrounding us just as the mountains surround Jerusalem. We are called to paise God at all time and in all situation and trust that his plan is perfect and whatever we experience is an opportunity to show our faith to God and one another.

The opening chapter of Proverbs is like looking into the intimate conversation between Solomon and his young son but wise advice for all of us. We must remember that God promised to give Solomon great wisdom even though we know he did not always us it well. It is clear the wise person will listen and increase their knowledge by being willing to learn. That starts by being willing to listen to wise counsel.

Solomon points out that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge and fools will despise wisdom and instruction. He points out that sinners will entice us with painting a bright future and the gains that are to be had with a sinful life. It is clearly a false picture and the end result is that it takes away the life of those that gain their possessions that way.

He also makes clear that Godly wisdom will be mocked, and many will refuse to believe it. There is a great cost to ignoring God’s commands and statutes. We become separated from God and when we call on him, he will not answer because we hated his way and demanded our own. We eat of the fruit we plant and when we listen to the Word of the Lord we will live securely.

Paul continues to travel and encourage the churches and praying with them. Even though he is warned numerous times that going to Jerusalem is dangerous he continues to rush that way to be there for the Passover celebration. One even tells him he will be bound and made a prisoner. It is interesting that in each case the warning come from those that have been told what lays ahead by the Holy Spirit. He makes it clear that same Spirit is leading him toward Jerusalem. Sometimes the cost of doing what God calls us to do is high.

When Paul gets to Jerusalem the words of warning become true. Paul even takes advantage of that situation to proclaim the truth even thought it is violently opposed. Once again, we have to note that the crowds are often stirred up by those whose power is most threatened and are fearful.