Category Archives: Numbers

A Foolish Nation Eradicates Its History (Deuteronomy 1)

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Scripture reading – Deuteronomy 1

* This is the second devotion of two for today’s Scripture reading.

An Introduction to the Book of Deuteronomy

Our chronological study of the Scriptures brings us to the Book of Deuteronomy. It is the fifth of the first five books of the Bible, known as the Pentateuch. Briefly, remember that Genesis revealed the God of Creation. In that book, we had explained the origin of all things, the entrance of sin, and God’s covenant with Abraham that promised the LORD would through him bless “all families of the earth” (Genesis 12:3). Exodus, Leviticus, and Numbers chronicled Israel’s journey in the wilderness and gave us a record of God’s Law and Commandments.

Deuteronomy picked up the history of Israel at the journey’s end. With the nation encamped at the threshold of the Promised Land and knowing his death was imminent, Moses remembered and recorded the previous forty years of wanderings in the wilderness. Except for Moses, Joshua, and Caleb, the generation that departed Egypt and was twenty years old at the time had perished along the way. Therefore, Deuteronomy recorded Israel’s history, God’s laws, and Moses’ final instructions and exhortations to the people he had shepherded for forty years.

Deuteronomy 1 – Moses’ Final Words to Israel

The Assembly of the Congregation (Deuteronomy 1:1-5)

We read: “It came to pass in the fortieth year, in the eleventh month, on the first day of the month, that Moses spake unto the children of Israel, according unto all that the LORD had given him in commandment unto them” (Deuteronomy 1:3). The Book of Deuteronomy was so important that a king of Israel was to have a copy of the book written in his hand and to be read every day of his life.

God’s Promise of the Land (Deuteronomy 1:6-8)

It was important for Moses to rehearse with the new generation who they were, from whence they came, and God’s plan for Israel. So Moses challenged the people, “8Behold, I have set the land before you: go in and possess the land which the Lord sware unto your fathers, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, to give unto them and to their seed after them” (1:8).

Much as a man might research his ancestral tree to know the history of his lineage, Moses passed to the new generation knowledge of their physical ancestry and, more importantly, their spiritual heritage as God’s chosen people. Think about it: The men and women who stood before Moses were 19 years old and younger when Israel refused to enter the Promised Land. They were now in their forties and late fifties. Many were too young to know the hardships of Egypt or remember when the people rebelled against the LORD. Therefore, Moses feared some might follow the faithlessness of the prior generation and be tempted to turn back from the new land.

The Appointment of Judges (Deuteronomy 1:9-18)

Because Israel was a large population (1:9-10), and Moses’ departure was imminent, it was essential for the nation to have a form of government that would judge matters according to God’s law and commandments. Therefore, the LORD directed Moses, “Take you wise men, and understanding, and known among your tribes, and I will make them rulers over you” (1:13). Those men were to judge the people and settle causes that would arise (1:16). Moses admonished the men to be fair in their judgments and “not respect persons” (1:17).

The Prior Generation’s Failure to Trust God (Deuteronomy 1:19-46)

Then, Moses recapped Israel’s forty years in the wilderness and the previous generation’s refusal to trust the LORD. Finally, for any who might question why the generation before them perished, Moses reminded them:

Deuteronomy 1:32–33 – 32Yet in this thing ye did not believe the Lord your God, 33Who went in the way before you, to search you out a place to pitch your tents in, in fire by night, to shew you by what way ye should go, and in a cloud by day.

Moses was concerned that the youth did not understand what faithlessness had cost their parents and grandparents. Therefore, he rehearsed the tragic consequences of their parents’ disobedience and ensured they understood the nation’s challenges.

Deuteronomy 1:34-46 is a history lesson. Moses reminded the people that only Caleb and Joshua would accompany them across the Jordan River. Moses, because he disobeyed the LORD, would not “go in thither” (1:37); but The LORD had appointed them Joshua, and the people were urged to “encourage him” (1:38).

Closing thoughts:

The children of Israel needed to know and understand their history as a nation. History is important, and only a doomed society dares to deny its history and fail to learn from its past. Tragically, eradicating the history and symbols of a nation’s past might pacify a few, but it invariably destines its people to repeat its failures.

In the words of twentieth-century philosopher George Santayana, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.”

Copyright © 2023 – Travis D. Smith

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Women’s Rights and a Question of Inheritance (Numbers 36)

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Scripture reading – Numbers 36

* Today’s Scripture reading concludes our study of the Book of Numbers and commences the Book of Deuteronomy (the final book of the first five books of the Scriptures identified as the Pentateuch). A second devotion will follow and introduce Deuteronomy.

Numbers 36

The Book of Numbers ended on an interesting note, as another concern regarding inheritance was raised. In an earlier devotion, we considered a daughter’s inheritance, should her father die without a son as his heir (Numbers 27:7-11). An actual case was referenced as a Hebrew man named Zelophehad had died without a son. His five daughters then petitioned that they were their father’s rightful heirs and should receive his portion in the Promised Land (27:4-5). Then the LORD directed Moses for Zelophehad’s daughters to be given their father’s share (27:6-11).

A Question of Tribal Lands Remaining in the Tribe (36:1-12)

Because the lands were assigned to tribes by families, there was a concern for what became of tribal lands should a man’s heirs be his daughters (Numbers 36:1-4) and then marry outside their tribe. It was therefore contended that the lands would be lost to a tribe if the daughters married outside their tribe. The quandary was settled by requiring daughters, heirs to their father’s estate, to marry within their tribe (36:5-9), thereby ensuring the land remained within the tribe.

The “daughters of Zelophehad” accepted the LORD’s command and married men within their tribe (36:10-12). Thus, the tribal lands were secured for future generations.

Closing thoughts:

The Book of Numbers concluded by reminding God’s people that the words of the LORD were commandments, not suggestions. Moses wrote, “These are the commandments and the judgments, which the Lord commanded by the hand of Moses unto the children of Israel in the plains of Moab by Jordan near Jericho” (36:13).

Before He brought the Twelve Tribes into their inheritance, the LORD ensured they knew and understood what He required of them as a nation and people.

Questions to consider:

1) Who had the LORD commanded should receive Zelophehad’s inheritance? (36:2)

2) What concerns did the “children of Gilead” bring to Moses? (36:3-4)

3) What was God’s command concerning whom the daughters of Zelophehad were to marry? (36:6)

Copyright © 2023 – Travis D. Smith

* You can subscribe to the Heart of a Shepherd daily devotionals and have them sent directly to your email address. Please enter your email address in the box to the right (if using a computer) or at the bottom (if using a cell phone). You may also email your request to HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com

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Murder Defiles the Land and Requires God’s Judgment (Numbers 34; Numbers 35)

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Scripture reading – Numbers 34-35

Numbers 34

The Borders of the Promised Land (34:1-15)

Numbers 34 records the boundaries of the land the LORD promised Abraham and his seed as their inheritance (Genesis 15:18-21; 26:4; 28:13-14). Although the land would not be formally divided by tribe until Joshua 15-19, we are given the southern boundaries (34:3-5), with the western border being the “great sea” (the Mediterranean Sea, 34:6). The northernmost limit of Israel was to be Mount Hor (34:7-9), and the eastern boundary was the Jordan River (34:10-13). Per their request, the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh had “received their inheritance on [the east] side Jordan [River] near Jericho” (34:14-15).

Dividing and Allocating the Land (34:16-29)

With the assistance of “Eleazar the priest, and Joshua the son of Nun” (34:17), the LORD chose a man from each of the tribes to represent his tribe when the land would be divided (34:18-29).

Numbers 35 

The Inheritance and Provision for the Tribe of Levi (35:1-5, 7)

Unlike the other tribes, the priestly tribe of Levi was not assigned a portion of the land. Instead, forty-eight cities and suburbs would be allotted to the Levites as their inheritance. Those cities and suburbs were to be located amid the lands apportioned to the Twelve Tribes on the east and west sides of the Jordan River (35:1-5,7).

The Laws Governing Murder and Manslaughter (35:6-15)

Of the forty-eight Levite cities, six were to be designated “cities for refuge,” to which men would flee in the event they had taken the life of another (35:6-8). Three cities of refuge were to be located on the east side of the Jordan and three on the west side (35:9-14).

Cities of Refuge (35:15-32)

The cities of refuge offered haven to a mankiller (“man slayer”) until the congregation tried him. Then a determination was made whether or not he was guilty of murder (35:15-29). Nevertheless, the cities of refuge could not serve as a haven for a man guilty of murder.

Taking the life of another was a violation of the sixth commandment, “Thou shalt not kill” (Exodus 20:13), and the judgment of God was: “The murderer shall surely be put to death” (35:16). A blood kinsman had the right to avenge the death of his loved one, and to him fell the responsibility of slaying the murderer (35:17-21).

Should a man slay another “unawares,” an unintentional, accidental killing, he could seek sanctuary in a city of refuge. So long as he stayed within the city, he was safe. Should a man guilty of manslaughter depart from the protection of his city of refuge, a blood relative could avenge the death of a loved one (35:25-28). Only the high priest’s death could release one guilty of manslaughter from the confines of a city of refuge (35:28).

In cases of capital punishment, it was required that more than one witness would give testimony before a man could be convicted of murder and killed (35:30). Ransom or bribes that were intended to spare the life of a murderer were forbidden (35:31-32).

A Dire, Sober Warning (35:33-34)

“So ye shall not pollute the land wherein ye are: for blood it defileth the land: and the land cannot be cleansed of the blood that is shed therein, but by the blood of him that shed it. 34Defile not therefore the land which ye shall inhabit, wherein I dwell: for I the Lord dwell among the children of Israel.” (Numbers 35:33–34)

Closing thoughts:

Take a moment, and weigh the gravity of taking the life of another. When there is no justice for the slain, and the murderer goes unpunished, the innocent blood “defileth the land: and the land cannot be cleansed of the blood” (35:33b). Indeed, the only means of cleansing a land of innocent blood, and a nation of its guilt, is by exacting justice, and taking the life of the murderer.

Warning: When justice for the innocent fails, a nation is cursed, and its people live under the shadow of God’s judgment. The decay we observe today results from societies and governments that have forsaken justice for the innocent and preferred the criminal over his victim.

Some say, “There is no justice!” Oh, but there is, for the LORD will exact justice for the innocent. Yet, is there hope for a people and nation guilty of injustices and has failed the innocent?

Yes! But only by repentance. If they call upon the LORD, “humble themselves, and pray, and seek [God’s] face, and turn from their wicked ways” (2 Chronicles 7:14a), only then does God promise, “I [will] hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14ba).

Questions to consider:

1) What land did the LORD promise Israel? (Numbers 34:2)

2) What tribes preferred territory that lay outside the boundaries of the Promised Land? (Numbers 34:14-15)

3) What tribe was given cities and suburbs rather than land? (Numbers 35:2)

4) What purpose did the cities of refuge serve? (Numbers 35:6)

5) Who would decide if a man was guilty of murder or manslaughter? (Numbers 35:24-25)

Copyright © 2023 – Travis D. Smith

* You can subscribe to the Heart of a Shepherd daily devotionals and have them sent directly to your email address. Please enter your email address in the box to the right (if using a computer) or at the bottom (if using a cell phone). You may also email your request to HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com

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Obey the LORD, and He Will Bless You (Numbers 33)

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Scripture reading – Numbers 33

It is fitting that Numbers 33 begins with a look back at the providences of the LORD and His compassion on the children of Israel during their forty years in the wilderness. Admittedly, the names of the places where Israel encamped seem belaboring; however, each site reminds me that God is sovereign and orders the stops and the starts of His people.

Israel’s Exodus out of Egypt (Numbers 33:3-8)

From their Egyptian exodus (33:3-7) and passage through the midst of the Red Sea (33:8) to their return to “the plains of Moab by Jordan near Jericho” (33:50), the LORD had journeyed with His chosen people. He miraculously provided water and food along the way, proving He was a compassionate, loving God (33:9-37).

Nearing their journey’s end, we are suddenly and unceremoniously reminded: “Aaron the priest went up into Mount Hor at the commandment of the LORD, and died there, in the fortieth year after the children of Israel were come out of the land of Egypt…[he] was an hundred and twenty and three years old when he died in mount Hor” (33:38).

Aaron’s death served as a reminder that a whole generation perished because they refused to trust the LORD and enter the land. Except for Joshua and Caleb, of all who left Egypt, twenty years and older, they had died short of their destination.

A Command and A Warning (Numbers 33:50-56)

Now, the LORD promised Israel a fertile and fruitful land; however, it was inhabited by the Canaanites. Therefore, to take possession of their inheritance, Israel would have to drive the inhabitants out of the land (33:52a). The nation was commanded to destroy all the ways of the Canaanites, including their idols and the high places where they worshipped (33:52-53).

The land was to be divided by casting lots, and each family was to receive their inheritance based on the numerical size of the family (33:54).

Closing thoughts:

Numbers 33 closed with a warning: Should Israel fail to drive the inhabitants out of the land, the Canaanites would become “pricks in [their] eyes, and thorns in [their] sides” (33:55). Therefore, the people would have no rest therein. If Israel failed to obey God’s command and drive the Canaanites out of the land, the LORD warned that He would do to them what He would have done to their enemies (33:56).

Questions to consider:

1) Who recorded the history of Israel’s journey in the wilderness? (Numbers 33:2)

2) What feast day commemorated Israel’s departure from Egypt? (Numbers 33:3)

3) How old was Aaron, the high priest, when he died? (Numbers 33:39)

4) What was Israel’s fate if the people failed to drive the Canaanites out of the land? (Numbers 33:55-56)

Copyright © 2023 – Travis D. Smith

* You can subscribe to the Heart of a Shepherd daily devotionals and have them sent directly to your email address. Please enter your email address in the box to the right (if using a computer) or at the bottom (if using a cell phone). You may also email your request to HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com

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The “Axe” of God’s Judgment is Suspended Over the Heads of Fathers and Husbands (Numbers 29; Numbers 30)

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Scripture reading – Numbers 29-30

We began a study of instructions regarding the offerings required by the LORD in Numbers 28 and continued with the same through Numbers 29. Because we have considered the same sacrifices and feasts in earlier devotionals (Leviticus 16 and Leviticus 23), I will limit my study of Numbers 29 to a summary of the offerings and feast days.

Numbers 29

The Law of the Offerings (continued from Numbers 28)

The Feast of Trumpets and the Day of Atonement (Numbers 29:1-11)

The “Feast of Trumpets” marked the beginning of a new year on the Hebrew calendar (29:1-6), and was followed by the holiest of days, the “Day of Atonement” (29:7-11).  Also known as “Yom Kippur,” the Day of Atonement was the only day the high priest entered the holy of holies with the blood of sacrifice (Leviticus 16).

Of course, believers no longer need a high priest or the blood of sacrifices because Jesus Christ fulfilled the requirement of the sacrificial Passover lamb. By His death on the Cross, He is our High Priest (1 Peter 1:19; Hebrews 7:22-28; 9:11-28; 10:19-22).

The “Feast of Tabernacles” (Numbers 29:12-40)

The “Feast of Tabernacles” (29:12-34), also known as Sukkot, followed the “Day of Atonement” and was observed by Israel as a celebration of the harvest. Lasting seven days, the Feast of Tabernacles began with a Sabbath Rest (29:12) and ended with a Sabbath of Rest (29:35-38). Finally, the sacrifices were presented to the LORD for all the congregation (29:39-40).

Numbers 30

The Making and Breaking of Promises and Vows (Numbers 30:1-2)

In my lifetime, I have witnessed a shift in our society’s character from where a man’s word and a handshake were binding, compared to today when contracts are breached without so much as an apology. Therefore, it may surprise you to learn the LORD’s judgment regarding promises and vows (Leviticus 27).

King Solomon warned, “When thou vowest a vow unto God, defer not to pay it; for he hath no pleasure in fools: pay that which thou hast vowed. 5Better is it that thou shouldest not vow, than that thou shouldest vow and not pay” (Ecclesiastes 5:4–5).

Vows and covenants were not to be treated lightly, and once a man made a vow, it was binding. There was no exception for men; however, God benevolently allowed for an exception in daughters and wives who might have made hasty, ill-advised vows (30:3-8, 10-15).

Spiritual lesson – Fathers and husbands are accountable and responsible for caring for and protecting the women in their lives.

Sadly, with the demand for “women’s rights,” a man’s privilege of protecting his daughters and wife has been neglected in the 21st century. Consider the vows, pledges, and contracts in Numbers 30 and God’s compassionate care of women (Numbers 30:3-16).

An Unmarried Daughter’s Vow (Numbers 30:3-5)

A daughter, living in her father’s household, was by law under his protection (30:3-5). Should a daughter bind herself with a vow, and upon her father hearing of it but saying nothing, she could not be released from her vow (30:4). However, should a daughter vow, and the father hear of it, he had the authority to recant her vow, and her vow would not be binding (30:5).

A Young Wife’s Vow (Numbers 30:6-8)

When a woman married, she was no longer under her father’s authority but that of her husband. Should she make a vow, and her husband hears but says nothing regarding it, his wife was bound by her vow (30:6-7). A husband, however, hearing of a wife’s vow, had the authority to cancel her oath, and “the LORD [would] forgive her” (30:8).

The Vow of a Widowed or Divorced Woman (Numbers 30:9)

Women who were widowed or divorced were not under the authority of any man. Therefore, they were bound by their vows to the LORD and could not recant them (30:9). Widowed and divorced women were under obligation to fulfill their pledges.

A Wife’s Vows (Numbers 30:10-15)

The law concerning the vows of a wife served as a reminder that she was not only under her husband’s authority but was also under his protection. A husband had the authority to intervene, terminate his wife’s vow, or allow it to stand (30:10-16). Once he learned of her vow, he carried the weight of determining whether or not he would intervene.

Nevertheless, should the husband cause his wife to break her vow unadvisedly, he would do so, bearing the responsibility of “her iniquity” and, therefore, her judgment (30:15).

Closing thoughts:

A man was bound and accountable to God for caring for his wife and daughter(s) as long as they were in his household (30:16). Even so, though society has changed, godly men will love, care, and protect women in their lives. Furthermore, wives and daughters should take comfort in this:

The weight of the axe of God’s judgment hangs over their father or husband.

Questions to consider:

1) What was the law of God concerning vows made by men? (Numbers 30:1)

2) What was the will of God should a daughter make an ill-advised vow? (Numbers 30:3-5)

3) Why should widows and divorced women be especially careful when making a vow? (Numbers 30:9)

4) Who would bear the judgment should a husband cancel his wife’s vow? (Numbers 30:15)

Copyright © 2023 – Travis D. Smith

* You can subscribe to the Heart of a Shepherd daily devotionals and have them sent directly to your email address. Please enter your email address in the box to the right (if using a computer) or at the bottom (if using a cell phone). You may also email your request to HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com

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Sacrificial Offerings and Feast Days to the LORD (Numbers 28)

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Scripture Reading – Numbers 28

Today’s Scripture reading is the first of two chapters that reviewed the Law of Offerings. Given the context, a review of sacrifices seemed out of place; after all, the tribal census had numbered the men of war age (and would also serve as the basis for assigning tribal lands). One would think it was time to go to war! Instead, lest the people forget to honor the LORD with offerings, a review of the sacrifices began, and the people were reminded that the LORD is the Commander and Chief of Israel!

Numbers 28

Four Types of Sacrificial Offerings

Daily Offerings, known as the Burnt Offering (Numbers 28:1-8)

The daily offerings consisted of two lambs to be “of the first year without spot” (28:3). The first lamb was to be offered and sacrificed in the morning. The second was offered in the evening (28:4). The lamb offered in the evening was accompanied by a drink offering of the best wine (described as “strong wine”) and flour or grain (defined as a meat or meal offering, 28:4-6). The morning and evening offerings were sacrifices offered by the priests on behalf of the nation and were a daily reminder of Israel’s dependence on God’s grace.

Weekly Sabbath Day Offerings (Numbers 28:9-10)

In addition to the daily offerings, weekly Sabbath day offerings were described (28:9-10). Israel was to offer them on the Sabbath, and they were a time to reflect on the Creator Who rested on the seventh day (Genesis 2:2).

Monthly New Moon Offerings (Numbers 28:11-15)

As the name implies, the “New Moon Offerings” were to be observed “in the beginnings of your months” (28:11) and was a “burnt offering unto the Lord; [and consisted of] two young bullocks, and one ram, seven lambs of the first year without spot” (28:11). The New Moon Offering sanctified the month that was ahead and served as a reminder that the LORD is both the Creator and Sustainer of His creation.

Annual Passover and Pentecost Offering (Numbers 28:16-31)

Israel was to observe several festivals, referred to as the Feasts of the LORD (28:16-29:40). The Passover was celebrated on “the fourteenth day of the first month” (28:16). The week following the Passover meal was identified as the Feast of Unleavened Bread (28:17-25). Lasting for seven days, in addition to the daily offerings, the days of the Feast of Unleavened Bread required an additional sabbath of rest (28:18) and the same sacrifices as the New Moon Offering on each of the seven days (28:19-22).

Pentecost, identified as the fiftieth day after the Passover, was known as the Feast of Weeks, or the Harvest Feast (28:26-31), and was the day the “firstfruits” were offered to the LORD (the first fruits were the first to ripen and be harvested). Burnt offerings also accompanied the “firstfruits” (28:27-31).

Closing thoughts:

The sacrifices required, and the number of sacrifices commanded by the LORD, may surprise believers unfamiliar with the Old Testament Scriptures. Nevertheless, all the sacrifices reminded Israel of that nation’s dependence on God’s grace, mercy, and forgiveness.

Is Jesus Christ Your Sacrifice and Savior?

If you have trusted Jesus Christ as Savior, you are not required to offer sacrifices for sin because the ultimate and final sacrifice – Jesus Christ, was offered for the sins of the world. The author of Hebrews observed that the high priests offered daily sacrifices for their sins and the nation’s sins; however, Christ “did once, when he offered up himself” (Hebrews 7:27). He “once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit” (1 Peter 3:18, 20).

Knowing the “wages of sin is death,” we who trust Christ as Savior have the promise that “the gift of God is eternal life, through Jesus Christ our LORD” (Romans 6:23). Instead of sacrificial offerings, we are to offer sacrifices of prayer and praise to the LORD, and our “bodies [i.e., lives] a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God” (Romans 12:1).

Will you accept Christ as your substitutionary sacrifice and Savior?

Questions to consider:

1) What daily sacrifice did the LORD require of Israel? (Numbers 28:3-4)

2) What was the Sabbath Day offering? (Numbers 28:9)

3) What was forbidden on the first day of the Passover feast? (Numbers 28:18)

Copyright © 2023 – Travis D. Smith

* You can subscribe to the Heart of a Shepherd daily devotionals and have them sent directly to your email address. Please enter your email address in the box to the right (if using a computer) or at the bottom (if using a cell phone). You may also email your request to HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com

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The Final Census, Women’s Rights and a New Leader (Numbers 26; Numbers 27)

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Scripture Reading – Numbers 26-27

The gross adultery and idolatry recorded in Numbers 25 had provoked God to send a plague in Israel that occasioned the deaths of 24,000 people (25:9). With the plague passed, the LORD commanded Moses to take a final census before crossing the Jordan River, “from twenty years old and upward, throughout their fathers’ house, all that are able to go to war in Israel” (26:2).

Numbers 26 

The Final Census Before the Promised Land (26:1-51)

A census of the Twelve Tribes of Israel was first taken in Numbers 1-4. Comparing that census with this later one revealed a slight decrease in the Twelve Tribes overall (the first totaling 603,500 men, and the second 601,730 men, who were twenty years or older). Some tribes had experienced a decline (Simeon declining from 59,300 men to 22,200 men, twenty years and older). Other tribes had experienced significant population growth (the men of the tribe of Manasseh had increased from 32,200 to 52,700 men, twenty years and older). The names and the numbering of the Twelve Tribes were recorded in Numbers 26:5-50.

How the Land Would be Divided (26:52-62)

The census was necessary, for it became the basis for assigning each tribe territory in the Promised Land (26:52-56). The Tribe of Levi, the priestly tribe the LORD chose to serve Him, did not inherit land in Canaan (26:62).

A Sobering Reminder of the Generation that Perished (26:62-65)

Numbers 26 concluded with a sobering reminder of God’s judgment upon Israel (26:64). The prior generation had come out of Egypt, but refused to trust the LORD and obey Him. As a result, all, twenty years and older, perished in the wilderness, save two men: “For the Lord had said of them, They shall surely die in the wilderness. And there was not left a man of them, save Caleb the son of Jephunneh, and Joshua the son of Nun” (26:65).

Numbers 27 

Women’s Rights of Inheritance (27:1-11)

Numbers 27:1-11 is a case study regarding women’s rights and reveals the inequitable laws women protest are not God’s way, but men’s! If men followed the ethics of the Scriptures, they would realize that the ways of the LORD are wise, benevolent, and compassionate.

Five daughters of one man of the tribe of Manasseh came to Moses and Eleazar, the high priest (27:1-2). Their father had died, leaving no male heir. Therefore, the daughters could plead their case regarding their late father’s right of inheritance in the Promised Land (27:1-4). According to the law, a man’s estate was to pass to his son; however, what became of a man’s possessions when there was no son?

The daughters reasoned, “4Why should the name of our father be done away from among his family, because he hath no son?” (27:4) They pleaded that they and their father had been slighted and petitioned, “Give unto us therefore a possession among the brethren of our father” (27:4).

Rather than make a hasty, ill-advised decision, or trust men’s opinions, Moses withdrew and “brought [the] cause[of the daughters] before the LORD” (27:5). The LORD affirmed the sisters’ assertion (27:6) and answered Moses: “Thou shalt speak unto the children of Israel, saying, If a man die, and have no son, then ye shall cause his inheritance to pass unto his daughter” (27:7). To ensure a family’s possessions would remain within the tribe, it was determined that should a man die and have neither a son nor daughter, his inheritance would pass to his next of kin (27:9-11).

End of an Era: Moses’ Imminent Death (27:12-13)

The LORD then commanded Moses, “Get thee up into this mount Abarim, and see the land which I have given unto the children of Israel. 13  And when thou hast seen it, thou also shalt be gathered unto thy people, as Aaron thy brother was gathered” (27:12-13).

A Changing of the Guard: A Man of God’s Choosing (27:14-23)

Moses was then reminded that he would not enter the Land of Promise (27:14; 20:7-13). With humility, he accepted the consequence of his sin with grace. Then, like a true shepherd leader, Moses requested the LORD “set a man over the congregation” (27:16). Moses desired to ensure his successor would be a man of God’s choosing and have a shepherd’s heart (27:17).

So, God chose “Joshua the son of Nun, a man in whom is the spirit [of God]” (27:18).  Leaving no uncertainty that Joshua was His choice (27:18), the LORD directed Moses to confirm him before “all the congregation” (27:19-20). Moses obeyed the LORD, took Joshua, and “laid his hands upon him, and gave him a charge, as the LORD commanded” (27:23).

Closing thoughts:

Although he was one of the most extraordinary men ever to live, Moses inevitably went the way of all flesh and was “gathered unto [his] people, as Aaron [his] brother was gathered” (27:13).  Miriam was dead; Aaron was dead; and because he had disobeyed the LORD and sinned before all the people, Moses would die, without entering the Promised Land (27:14).

I am reminded that “the best of men are men at best,” and their lives are no more than “a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away” (James 4:14). Many ignore and deny the haunting fact that it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment” (Hebrews 9:27); however, godly men pray, “So teach us to number our days, That we may apply our hearts unto wisdom” (Psalm 90:12).

Make today count for eternity and “walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, 16Redeeming the time, because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:15-16).

Questions to consider:

1) Who was to be counted in the census? (26:2)

2) How many sons did Joseph have, and what were their names? (26:28)

3) How many men were numbered in Israel before they entered the Promised Land? (26:51)

4) Why did the daughters of Zelophehad come to Moses and Eleazar? (27:3-4)

5) Understanding his death was imminent, what request did Moses bring to the LORD? (27:15-17)

Copyright © 2023 – Travis D. Smith

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Evil Companions Corrupt Good Morals (Numbers 25)

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Scripture Reading – Numbers 25

Numbers 25 brings us to Shittim, the staging ground for Israel to cross the Jordan River and enter the Promised Land (25:1).

Shittim became the setting of a tragic event, for it was here that “the people began to commit whoredom with the daughters of Moab” (25:1). After the suffering and toil of wandering in the wilderness for forty years, how could Israel, break her covenant with the LORD? Not only did the people commit adultery with the heathen, but they also worshiped and offered sacrifices to their gods! (25:1-3)

We read, “Israel joined himself unto Baal-peor: and the anger of the Lord was kindled against Israel” (25:3). Baal-peor was the place where Baal, the Canaanite god of fertility, was worshipped. The Moabites, Midianites, and Ammonites worshipped Baal (closely identified with Moloch). Portrayed as a bull, the Canaanites sacrificed their sons and daughters to Baal and committed all manner of sexual deviancy in worshipping the idol.

Because of their idolatry, God’s wrath was “kindled against Israel” (25:3). The LORD commanded Moses, “Take all the heads of the people, and hang them up before the Lord against the sun, that the fierce anger of the Lord may be turned away from Israel” (25:4).

God’s Punishment of Unfaithful Leaders (25:4-13)

The people’s sins were egregious, and God’s judgment was swift (25:4-5). He placed the responsibility for the sins of the nation upon the “heads [leaders] of the people” (25:5). He demanded they be slain and their bodies hanged in the sun as a warning to the people (25:5).

One man was so brazen that he “brought unto his brethren a Midianitish woman (the daughter of a Midianite tribal chief) in the sight of Moses, and in the sight of all the congregation of the children of Israel” (25:6).  Phinehas, the son of the high priest Eleazar, rose and slew the man and the Midianite woman. He thrust them both through with a javelin (25:6-8). As a result, God’s judgment fell upon Israel, and 24,000 perished (25:9).

We are also reminded that nothing escapes the notice of God, for the LORD acknowledged Phinehas’ zeal for righteousness and established a perpetual covenant of the priesthood with him and his lineage (25:10-13).

Closing thoughts:

The sin committed at Shittim was so tragic that the names of the couple slain by Phinehas were recorded (25:14-15). The LORD also commanded Moses, “Vex the Midianites, and smite them” (25:17).

Several spiritual lessons might be drawn from today’s Scripture reading; however, I will limit myself to one: “Be not deceived: evil communications [companions] corrupt [ruins; destroys] good manners [morals]” (1 Corinthians 15:33).

The Scriptures do not reveal how the men of Israel came to worship the god of Baal and to commit whoredom. However, we can be confident that the proximity of the “daughters of Moab” (25:1) provided the Israelites not only a familiarity with them, but also a tolerance of their wicked ways (25:1-3).

Indeed, the 21st-century church desperately needs young men like Phinehas, who love God and have a zeal for godliness.

Will you commit yourself to having a godly zeal in the 21st century?

Copyright © 2023 – Travis D. Smith

* You can subscribe to the Heart of a Shepherd daily devotionals and have them sent directly to your email address. Please enter your email address in the box to the right (if using a computer) or at the bottom (if using a cell phone). You may also email your request to HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com

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“God is Not a Man, that He Should Lie.” (Numbers 23; Numbers 24)

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Scripture Reading – Numbers 23-24

The dynamic conversation between Balak, king of Moab, and Balaam continues in today’s Scripture reading. Balaam arrived in Moab, and Balak went out to see the seer, anxious to have him curse Israel (22:26-41). Balaam warned the king, “The word that God putteth in my mouth, that shall I speak” (22:38). Balak, however, was undeterred and led Balaam to Kirjathhuzoth. Then, after offering oxen and sheep, the king invited Balaam to look out on the plain where Israel was encamped (22:40-41).

Numbers 23 

Balaam’s Prophecies and Balak’s Rage (23:1-17)

Balak was willing to do all Balaam asked; therefore, the king built “seven altars, and…offered on every altar a bullock and a ram” (23:1-2). Balak stood by his burnt offerings and waited for the prophet to speak. Instead of cursing, Balaam prophesied, saying, “Lo, the people [Israel] shall dwell alone, And shall not be reckoned among the nations [Israel would become a distinct nation, with its land]. 10Who can count the dust of Jacob, And the number of the fourth part of Israel?” (22:9-10a).

Balak was incensed after he heard Balaam’s prophecy and rebuked him, saying, “What hast thou done unto me? I took thee to curse mine enemies, and, behold, thou hast blessed them altogether” (22:11).

Nevertheless, Balak was not ready to accept that Balaam could not curse Israel. Therefore the king invited him “to the top of Pisgah.” Once again, he “built seven altars, and offered a bullock and a ram on every altar” (23:14). Balaam then withdrew to seek the LORD, as Balak stood by his burnt offerings (23:15-17). When Balaam returned, Balak asked, “What hath the LORD spoken?” (23:17b).

Rather than curse Israel, Balaam’s second prophecy focused on God’s character. (23:19-24)

The prophet revealed the LORD is immutable [unchanging]: For “19God is not a man, that he should lie; Neither the son of man, that he should repent: Hath he said, and shall he not do it? Or hath he spoken, and shall he not make it good?” (23:19) God is faithful, and His’s promises are sure. For whom the LORD has determined to bless, He will bless (23:20-21a). The LORD is omnipresent, and His presence assures His people victory (23:21b-22). He is also a shield, and Israel would not be harmed (23:23). Finally, Balaam prophesied that because the LORD is with Israel, His people would “rise up as a great lion…and drink the blood of the slain” (23:24).

Balak loathed the blessings Balaam heaped upon Israel and challenged the prophet, “Neither curse them at all, nor bless them at all” (23:25). Balak then commanded Balaam a third time to look upon Israel and curse the people (23:27-30).

Numbers 24 

Balaam’s Third Prophecy (24:1-9)

Balak built seven altars for a third time and offered seven bulls and seven rams (23:29-30). Yet, Balaam could not curse Israel. Instead, he “saw that it pleased the Lord to bless Israel, [and] he set his face toward the wilderness” (24:1). Lifting his eyes towards Israel, Balaam “saw Israel abiding in his tents according to their tribes; and the spirit of God came upon him” (24:2). Balaam then prophesied (24:5-9), “5How goodly are thy tents, O Jacob, And thy tabernacles, O Israel!” (24:5).

Balaam’s Fourth Prophecy (24:10-18)

Balak was furious and protested, “I called thee to curse mine enemies, and, behold, thou hast altogether blessed them these three times. 11Therefore now flee thou to thy place” (24:10-11a). Before departing, Balaam took up a fourth prophecy (24:15-19) and prophesied, “There shall come a Star out of Jacob, And a Sceptre shall rise out of Israel” (24:17). (This prophecy was partly fulfilled when Israel was established as a kingdom, and David reigned. However, the birth of Jesus Christ was marked by “a Star out of Jacob.” Numbers 24:17, 19; Matthew 2:2).

Balaam concluded his prophecies and foretold the fall of three kingdoms: The Amalekites (24:20), the Kenites (24:21-22), and the Assyrians (24:23-24). Then, Balaam and Balak went their ways. Later, the Scriptures reveal that Balaam will be slain in battle with several kings of Midian (31:8).

Closing thoughts: “God is not a man, that he should lie.” (23:19)

I have known many liars and have seen that the bent of human depravity is for men to believe lies before they accept and embrace God’s truth. What blessed security to know God keeps His promises, and His Word is sure! To quote the apostle Paul, “Let God be true, but every man a liar” (Romans 3:4a).

Questions to consider:

1) Why was King Balak indignant with Balaam? (23:11)

2) Unlike man, what are things that God will not do? (23:19)

3) What did God’s Spirit reveal to Balaam concerning Israel? (24:2-9)

Copyright © 2023 – Travis D. Smith

* You can subscribe to the Heart of a Shepherd daily devotionals and have them sent directly to your email address. Please enter your email address in the box to the right (if using a computer) or at the bottom (if using a cell phone). You may also email your request to HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com

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A Foolish Prophet and “Not so Foolish” Donkey (Numbers 21; Numbers 22) – Part 2 of 2 devotions.

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Scripture Reading – Numbers 21-22

* This devotion continues our summary review of Numbers 21 and will also consider Numbers 22.

The LORD had spared Israel from greater judgment by directing Moses to fashion and lift up a brass serpent on a pole, which served as the physical object to which people should look for their healing (Numbers 21:1-9).

A Song of Rejoicing (Numbers 21:10-16)

As the children of Israel progressed in their journey, they passed along the coast of Edom (Deuteronomy 2:4, 5). Then, they came to the “border of Moab” (21:13). It was there that the people rejoiced for the water the LORD provided (21:14-18).

Victory over Sihon, King of the Amorites (Numbers 21:10-31)

Desiring to pass through the territory of the Amorites, “Israel sent messengers unto Sihon, king of the Amorites” (21:21) and requested safe passage through their land. The leaders of Israel vowed not to harm their crops, vineyards, or drink water from their wells (21:22). King Sihon, however, refused Israel’s request, and gathered his people, and attacked the congregation (21:22). Then, Israel rose against the Amorites, and God gave them victory (21:24-25). With a song, the people celebrated their victory over Sihon, king of the Amorites (21:27-31).

The Defeat of Og, the King of Bashan (Numbers 21:32-35)

Building upon Israel’s victory over the Amorites, the nation faced Og, king of Bashan. He attacked Israel, but the LORD assured Moses and Israel that He would give them victory. Like Sihon, the king of Bashan was defeated so soundly that “there was none left him alive: and they [Israel] possessed his land” (21:35).

Numbers 22

Balak, King of the Moabites (Numbers 22:1-4)

The following chapters, Numbers 22-24, introduce Balaam, whom we might describe as an unfaithful seer (a seer being a prophet or fortune-teller) and a king of Moab named Balak.

Balak had heard how Israel defeated Og, king of Bashan, and Sihon, king of the Amorites. The king’s heart failed at the thought of facing God’s people as they marched through his land (22:1-4).

Moabite Ambassadors (Numbers 22:5-14)

Lacking confidence that his soldiers could defeat Israel, Balak turned to Balaam and sent ambassadors to summon the prophet to come and curse Israel (22:5-6). Also, Balak commended the prophet and expressed his confidence “that he whom thou blessest is blessed, and he whom thou cursest is cursed” (22:6).

Coming with a promise that his services would be well rewarded, the Moabite delegation insisted that Balaam go and curse Israel (22:7). The foolish prophet, rather than reject the Moabite’s invitation outright and send them away, invited them, “Lodge here this night, and I will bring you word again, as the Lord shall speak unto me” (22:8a). That night the LORD came to Balaam, and warned, “Thou shalt not curse the people: for they are blessed” (22:12). The following day, Balaam sent the Moabites away, saying, “the Lord refuseth to give me leave to go with you” (22:13).

Balaam Entertained and Accepted Balak’s Invitation (Numbers 22:15-21)

King Balak received Balaam’s refusal, but desperate for assistance, the king sent a second delegation more powerful and influential than the first (22:15). Those men came to Balaam and promised to enrich and “promote [him] unto very great honour” if he would go and “curse” Israel (22:17).

Though he knew he could not curse a people whom God blessed, Balaam nevertheless invited the Moabites to stay the night, saying he would bring the matter before the LORD (22:19). That night, the LORD came to Balaam and gave him liberty to go with the delegation (22:20-21).

An Angelic Intervention (Numbers 22:22-38)

Balaam rose the next day, saddled his donkey, and began his journey with the Moabites. As he traveled to Moab, we read, “God’s anger was kindled because he went: and the angel of the Lord stood in the way for an adversary against him” (22:22). The following verses (22:22-41) relate a humorous interaction between Balaam, his donkey, and the angel of the LORD. This story has captivated the imagination of believers for thousands of years.

Balaam, spiritually blinded by the promise of honors, rewards, and riches, did not see what his donkey saw. For standing in the path of the donkey was an angel whom the LORD sent to become Balaam’s adversary (22:22). The angel was “standing in the way, and his sword drawn in his hand” (22:23).

Fearing the angel, the donkey rushed off the road, running Balaam into a wall and crushing his foot (22:25). Hobbled, humiliated, and still blind to the angel’s presence, Balaam struck his donkey. He then attempted to continue his journey, but his donkey “fell down under [him]: and Balaam’s anger was kindled, and he smote the ass with a staff” for a third time (22:27).

Suddenly, the LORD gave the donkey voice, and the beast asked the prophet, “What have I done unto thee, that thou hast smitten me these three times?” (22:28). Balaam, filled with rage, answered his donkey’s rebuke, saying, “thou hast mocked me: I would there were a sword in mine hand, for now would I kill thee” (22:29).

The dialog between the foolish prophet and his donkey continued (22:30) until “the Lord opened the eyes of Balaam, and he saw the angel of the Lord standing in the way, and his sword drawn in his hand: and [Balaam]bowed down his head, and fell flat on his face” (22:31). The angel then revealed that Balaam’s donkey had saved his life (22:32-33), for surely he would have been slain for going with the Moabites.

Balaam then confessed his sin and spiritual blindness and promised to turn back (22:34). However, the angel directed Balaam to continue his journey to see Balak, the Moabite king. He promised Balaam the LORD would lead him on what he should say (22:25-38).

To be continued in our following devotion…

Questions to consider:

1) Fearing Israel, what did King Balak ask Balaam to do? (Numbers 22:5-6)

2) What was Balaam’s response when God opened his eyes, and he saw the angel of the LORD? (Numbers 22:31)

Copyright © 2023 – Travis D. Smith

* You can subscribe to the Heart of a Shepherd daily devotionals and have them sent directly to your email address. Please enter your email address in the box to the right (if using a computer) or at the bottom (if using a cell phone). You may also email your request to HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com

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Mailing Address:
Heart of A Shepherd Inc
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