What God Meant

“Moses said to Aaron, ‘This is what the Lord meant when He said, I [and My will, not their own] will be acknowledged as hallowed by those who come near Me, and before all the people I will be honored.’”-Leviticus 10:3 Amplified Bible

The words seemed to be crystal clear. God had given His people His commands, and there would have seemed to be no room for misunderstanding. This particularly seemed true for Moses, Aaron, and their families. These were people with special responsibilities, with special roles to play. And God had been specific about what they were to do, and why.

But then two of Moses’ nephews, Nadab and Abihu, offered unacceptable fire before the Lord. They had not treated God as holy or honored Him, and died as a result of this serious violation.

Regardless of what they had heard and seen, these two priests still reserved the right to interpret God’s words in their own ways. To justify their actions, without ever seeking His will. Serving their own interests, presuming to know what He meant. It seemed painfully obvious that others in the community shared this faulty logic.

As Moses would explain, everyone needed to understand “what the Lord meant.” Not to be guilty of the same mistakes.

How many people today are like Nadab and Abihu? Presuming to understanding God’s Word. Reserving the right to interpret His Word based on their own ideas. Feeling that they can go their own way, and not take His warnings seriously. Rejecting His sovereignty, and exalting their own thoughts and desires.

How quickly these attitudes can seep into our minds and hearts. How subtly we can take God for granted, and assume that we have the right to reinterpret His Word.

Think about your attitude toward God. Ask yourself if you are guilty of taking Him for granted. Do you really believe that He means what He says? That His Word is really true?

Prayer: Father, I humble myself before You. Help me to understand Your Word more clearly. Forgive me for taking You for granted. In Jesus’ name. Amen.