March 16 Bible reading

March 16  Psalm 34:11-22  Luke 1:57-80  Numbers 4; 5:1-10

Please read the suggested passages, prayerfully consider them, and the questions below. My comments here may be helpful after those moments. The suggested daily reading is for the purpose of reading through the whole Bible within a year.

Reading the Bible is helpful in taking the next steps to follow Jesus. It may not be easy and yet it can be rewarding. Digging into Scripture alongside people you know is a life-giving way to pursue answers together. We discover the love that God has for us has been expressed through Jesus.

• What’s the plain simple truth of the verses you read?
• Based on today’s reading, what is one thing God is saying to you?
• What should you do about that truth?

March 16  Psalm 34:11-22  Luke 1:57-80  Numbers 4; 5:1-10

Psalm 34:11-22

Lies bring consequences. Peacemaking requires thoughtful examination before taking action. God interacts with His people. He is paying attention. Psalm 34:18 describes what God is like every day and should inform how we live. God comes alongside the brokenhearted, bringing loving comfort to those whose spirits are crushed, and He will rescue them.

Luke 1:57-80

Zechariah and Elizabeth experienced miracles and were happy to welcome a baby boy. People noted the circumstances of John’s birth. The whole neighborhood recognized this birth as a miracle. They wondered what God would do through this baby. Zechariah spoke God’s promise of the mighty Savior, the coming Messiah. Zechariah predicted the role of his son, John the prophet, John the Baptist. In Luke 1:68-75 and 78-79, we read an amazing explanation of the Messiah’s role in the Kingdom of God. Are there more beautiful words than Luke 1:76-79? Jesus, our morning light from heaven! The purpose of John the Baptist was to tell people how to find salvation through the forgiveness of sins.

Numbers 4; 5:1-10

Moses, Aaron, the priests, and the Levites were responsible to care for the place of worship, the instruments of worship, and the ways of interacting with God. They led people by serving them. Purity in their camp included natural and spiritual cleanliness, focus, and purpose. God was removing their guilt. In Numbers, we see that every person matters to God. God gives purpose (and inherent value) to the work He has designed for His people. We can find fulfillment as we work.