Numbers 15 :17-16 :40, Mark 15, Psalms 54 :1-7, Proverbs 11:5-6

What God said to me – When an alcoholic decides to turn from their addiction and to live soberly, they might join AA for help and support.  They are appointed a sponsor to help them and advise them when they are struggling, and they attend regular meetings with others in the same situation for support and encouragement.  When they reach various milestones in their sobriety they receive a coin.  It’s not just a memento but also a reminder to encourage them to continue to move forward and also to cling to for encouragement when they are struggling.  When I called you and you repented of your sin and turned to Me for salvation, you became My child, and I placed you in a body of believers for support and encouragement.  I gave you My Spirit to live within you and to teach you and to help you.  At a time when the Jews were struggling with their obedience, I instructed them to sew tassels on the corners of their garments as a reminder of My word and a visual sign to encourage them to follow Me with all their heart whenever they saw them.  Much of your sin is inadvertent, thoughtless, and unintended, so a reminder of who you are and how you should act is often helpful – whether it’s a cross around your neck or your Bible on your desk or a sticky note with scripture, find things that will help you to keep your focus on walking in a manner worthy of your calling.

Numbers 14 :1-15 :16, Mark 14 :53-72, Psalms 53 :1-6, Proverbs 11:4

What God said to me – Have you ever known a family with two kids who were total opposites – one was obedient and compliant and one who questioned every instruction and constantly rebelled?  Israel was like the rebellious child.  They were constantly questioning everything I told them and promised them.  I took them to the edge of the promised land and showed them how wonderful it was – I told them I would give it to them and bless them in it, but while they agreed it was wonderful, they doubted My promise and My sovereignty and refused to go in.  Later after I declared their punishment would be wandering in the wilderness until everyone over twenty except Caleb and Joshua died then they could go in.  They again doubted My promise and My sovereignty and in disobedience, they tried to go in rather than take their punishment.  They paid a heavy price both times for their lack of trust and for their rebellion.  The things I have written in My word are not just interesting “stories”, but they were written for your benefit – to instruct you or to warn you or to reveal Myself to you or to be an example for you.  As you come to know Me and see My faithfulness and sovereignty demonstrated throughout scripture, you must purpose in your heart to be like the obedient child obeying immediately because you trust My promises and My sovereignty in your life.

Numbers 11 :24-13 :33, Mark 14 :22-52, Psalms 52 :1-9, Proverbs 11 :1-2

What God said to me – What is courage?  Television and movies portray it as having no fear – rushing headlong into danger without a thought or care.  After the people of Israel left Egypt, they journeyed through the wilderness toward the promised land.  When they were close, Moses sent twelve spies to go into the land.  Their purpose was not to decide whether or not to go in, it was to assess the situation so they could make plans.  Ten of the spies decided it was too dangerous – there were too many giants – the people were too fierce.  However, Caleb and Joshua were willing to go in spite of the great adversaries because it was My plan – My gift to them and they trusted Me.  They were courageous, but they based their courage on Me and My promises and not on themselves or their abilities.  When My Son, Jesus, was facing arrest and torture and crucifixion He spent the night praying.  He asked for this cup to be removed, but not His will, but Mine be done – then He went to the cross.  He faced it courageously because He trusted My plan.  When you trust My sovereignty, you can act with courage no matter what you face because your courage is based on your trust in Me and not in the outcome.