November 19th
“And you shall have the tassel, that you may look upon it and remember all the commandments of the LORD and do them, and that you may not follow the harlotry to which your own heart and your own eyes are inclined, and that you may remember and do all My commandments, and be holy for your God.” Numbers 15:39-40 NKJV
The Israelites were people who saw daily miracles of God in epic proportions, yet at every turn, they were rebelling against God. Their journey to the Promised Land took 40 years. It didn’t have to take that long, but their rebellion caused the delays. One of the tools God used to help the people was the tassel. The tassel was used to remind people of God’s covenant and encourage them to not run into rebellion.
I see parallels from the Israelites’ experience to my own life. I took many detours from God’s plan into sin, yet at key points in my life, God used the word, people and circumstances to point me back to himself. After God freed me from sexual addictions, I discovered the challenges of walking in purity in a world laden with sexual temptations.
One of the tools that has helped me tremendously has been a scripture card system that reminds me of God’s word. Like the Israelites’ tassels, the card system helps me remember the Lord’s commandments and decline the temptations of sin. Here’s how it works. As the Holy Spirit quickens my mind to a particular Bible verse during my quiet time, I’ll write it on a 3 x 5 note card. I then place these cards on my computer, in my car, in my journal or sometimes on the refrigerator. As I see the cards during the week, I may recite them to myself or copy them at the bottom of an email to encourage someone. Once I’ve collected 12 cards, I’ll start a new group. Later I’ll periodically review the old groups to refresh my memory.
I’ve noticed an increased awareness of the Word in my thoughts as a result and an improved responsiveness in spiritual warfare. The Bible tells us that God’s word is sharper than a two-edged sword and pierces even to the division of soul and spirit (Hebrews 4:12). When I load my mind with his words, I in turn become “sharper” spiritually. I receive knowledge and wisdom to deal whatever I might face in life. Even though the verse I may be studying at the moment may not be used today, I know that it will be stored up in my heart for just the right time when I need it most.
Paul wrote that God’s word is useful for doctrine, reproof and training in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16-17). It is the truth that breaks apart any lie the enemy might try to tempt me with (John 8:31-32).
If you’ve not developed a routine of feeding your mind with God’s word, I encourage you to do so. His word will bring life to your soul and fill you with the light of his truth. It will help establish a foundation in your walk with God that will be strong and secure, such that when the enemy’s temptations come your way you will stand in victory.
Questions for further thought:
How did Jesus use God’s word when he was tempted? (Luke 4)
What did God instruct Joshua to do with “the Law” in preparation for his conquest of the Promised Land? (Joshua 1:8) If he did this, what would be the result?
When our minds are grounded on the truth, what can the enemy do? (2 Corinthians 4:4)
What is your system for getting God’s word into your heart and mind? If you don’t have one, what system will you start?
Prayer:
“Thank you, Father, for the Bible and how readily it is available through print, internet and other media. Please help me find the best way to use these wonderful tools to get your word into my heart and mind every day. Please forgive me, Lord for any rebelling that I’ve done, whether through sex sin, laziness, murmuring, complaining, the occult, pride or any other type of sin. Holy Spirit, please ignite a passion in me for holiness and a passion for your word. Please help me hide the word in my heart so that I will not sin against you. Please help me to be ever mindful of the great and precious sacrifice of Jesus on the cross for my sake. Thank you, Lord! I praise you now and forever, Amen.”