2019-8-19

Psalm 36

God enlightened David about the utter sinfulness of the wicked. From his eyes, to his mouth and mind, the wicked is so bent on his evil ways, that he has become a fool, unable to discern what is sin, much less hate it or choose to what is right.

David broke out into a song of praise, of who God is – love, faithful, righteous, just, sustainer, refuge, provider, fountain of life and light.  David finished with a prayer of protection from the proud and wicked who were eventually thrown down forever.

Just as Jesus said in Mat 10:16- “ I am sending you out like sheep among wolves. Therefore be as shrewd as snakes and as innocent as doves”, we are to live a pure life even with knowledge of evil around us.  Living such a life requires one to dwell in the love and faithfulness of God.

Numbers 16

Moses and Aaron were vindicated by God in a showdown when God appeared to the Israelites to destroy those who challenged Moses’ and Aaron’s role among the Israelites.

The power hungry Levites, Reubenites and 250 community leaders poured out ludicrous accusations against Moses- God’s humble and faithful servant.  They painted themselves as victims when they were actually behaving more like bullies.

Naturally, Moses had enough with these ungrateful people and he became enraged. He asked God to make a distinction by not accepting their offerings and to show Himself true by bringing about a new phenomena upon these men.

When The Lord touched down on the Tent of Meeting, He was ready to destroy the entire community. Moses and Aaron intervened on behalf of the rest of the assembly, so God only put an end to Korah, Dathan, Abiram and all their possessions by causing the earth to swallow them up alive! Fire also came out and consumed the 250 community leaders who took up the censers. 

The Lord did not leave any room for doubt, regarding who brought about this phenomena. 

Still the very next day, the whole assembly blamed Moses for the death of Korah and his counterparts. This time God came down to face- off with the assembly.  A plague went through the assembly and took 14,700 lives before it finally stopped with the atonement made by Aaron on behalf of the Israelites.

The struggle for significance/ power in human eyes is a dominating factor even in today’s culture.  Recognizing our motives, practicing the principles God gave us and asking God to lead us could stave off unnecessary trouble.

More importantly, we need to be praying for all our leaders. They need our support and encouragement for a job well done. Being a leader is a heavy burden as well as temptations for some.  Leaders need wisdom from God to do what is right for the benefit of all.           —- Laiyee Leong