Pastor’s Bible Reading Schedule:
Numbers 16-18
The Lord had already confirmed Aaron’s right and that of his descendants to the priesthood by honoring his incense and prayer and staying the plague that originated in the rebellion of Korah and his followers. He further authenticated this priesthood by offering an additional sign that would silence the congregation. Korah’s rebellion was rooted in causing the people to question whether or not God had really chosen Moses and Aaron to lead. (chapter 16) In chapter 17, the Lord will silence the debate on whether or not He had chosen Aaron to be the High Priest.
The Lord instructed Moses to speak to the Israelites and get twelve staffs from them, one from each tribal leader. The staff or rod was an indication of leadership in the home and tribe. Each man needed to write his name on the staff. This included Aaron, who would write his name on the staff from the tribe of Levi. Each staff would be placed inside the tent before the sacred ark and remain there overnight. A branch detached from a tree loses its connection with life and will die. But God would provide nourishment to the staff He would choose to represent Israel through the priesthood.
The next day Aaron’s staff had not only sprouted but had budded, blossomed and produced almonds.The Lord performed this miracle through divine omnipotence and silenced the opponents. The budded staff also represented a fruit-bearing priesthood, one appointed by God. The almond tree bears fruit the earliest of all other trees in Israel. The people could not answer a word, because anything that could be said the Lord had spoken through this miraculous sign.
The Lord commanded the people to put Aaron’s staff in front of the tabernacle as a reminder to the rebellion. The series of events associated with Korah’s rebellion now settled into the hearts of the people. They anguished over what had happened and even despaired of their own lives. However, they were taught a vital lesson. Although they would engage in other forms of rebellion, they would never again question Aaron’s priesthood.
Prayer Requests:
Personal
- Lord, please help me to always trust the decisions that you make for me, my family, and my ministry.
- Lord, please help me to submit myself to your leadership in my life in every area.
- Lord, please help me guard my heart against rebellion and to discern and stand against rebellious people.
Political
- Representative Donna Lasinski – District 52 – Ann Arbor
- Senator Dan Lauwers – District 25 – Brookway Twp.
- US Representative Brenda Lawrence – District 14 – Southfield