Impact on the Community

God wanted to bless His people! He described how His blessings would flow into their lives when they lived in accordance with His Word and were pleasing to Him. But they also needed to understand sin and be aware of its impact.

This meant knowing God’s laws and understanding the consequences of their actions. He wanted them to see how their words and actions influenced events. He warned them that their disobedience could block the flow of His blessings, protection, and favor. And He repeatedly reminded them that He is holy, unwilling to tolerate anything that isn’t pure.

God also described how they were to evaluate their lives and discover anything they had said or done that was displeasing to Him. They were to confess any sins, repent, and quickly restore their relationship with Him.

While this was critical for each person, God explained that their individual sins also could impact the entire community. Specifically, the sins of a priest could bring guilt on everyone. Even those who had done nothing wrong. This is why God made a provision to remedy these issues. Priests could make an offering that not only would cleanse them personally, but also eliminate the negative impact their sins had on the community.

Yes, our actions do impact others: Our spouses and families. Our churches and businesses. Our communities and even our nations.

Today, remember these truths as you make your choices. Realize anew the consequences of sin and why it is so important to live in a way that is pleasing to God.

Humble yourself before the Lord and allow Him to search your heart and convict you of anything that is displeasing to Him. He has promised to forgive your sins when you confess them (1 John 1:9). Seek to put His Word into action and be an example of His holy character.