Bible Talks

 
Another thing we are told about here is that we are never to “pay back” an unkindness done to us, nor are we to hold a grudge. Needless to say, the Christian has a higher motive for his conduct than the children of Israel, for the love of Christ is to constrain us in all we do. Then, too, we have the power for a godly walk, for we are indwelt by the Spirit of God. And yet, alas, we seem to forget the wondrous love of Christ that has been made known to us when we deserved only judgment, and we do not draw upon our resources of power many times. Yes, even Christians “pay back” in a most unkind way, and will hold a grudge for years against someone who has done them a wrong. Can it be that those who profess to be brothers and sisters in Christ, and to know they have passed from death unto life because they love the brethren, (1 John 3:1414We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death. (1 John 3:14)), should act so toward one another? If anyone, whether young or old, who is reading this paper has such a feeling toward another Christian (or even toward an unbeliever) may you seek grace to settle it before another day passes. There will be no growth or blessing in your soul until you do, be assured of that!
The children of Israel were told not to have mixtures in-their cattle (their business), in their field (their daily work), nor in their clothes (the nearest; things of life). God wants us to be wholeheartedly for Him, just as He wanted the children of Israel to be His people—all for Himself. (Exodus 19:44Ye have seen what I did unto the Egyptians, and how I bare you on eagles' wings, and brought you unto myself. (Exodus 19:4).)
Everything in God’s Word is important; but we are only calling particular attention to a few of the points in our chapter. In verse 32 The children of Israel were told to rise up before the hoary head and to honor the face of the old Mall, We are living in days when there is little respect for old age, and We believe a word here is necessary for those who are children of God. We should never speak disrespectfully to an older person. Even if he or she makes a mistake, as older people do at times, we should ALWAYS speak to them in a courteous and respectful way, even to correct them. We should help them in every way necessary and this applies especially to our parents whom God tells us we should honor at all times.
In the following chapter we are reminded once again that the Lord knows all the secrets of our lives. Sometime, boys and girls, and older people too. act as though God did not see their, but let us remember that “all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of Him with whom we have to do,” Hebrews 4:1313Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do. (Hebrews 4:13). He can see what we do in the dark just as well as what we do in the light; but because He is patient and does not act in judgment at once, let us not suppose that He does not see and know (Eccl. 8:1111Because sentence against an evil work is not executed speedily, therefore the heart of the sons of men is fully set in them to do evil. (Ecclesiastes 8:11)).
In chapter 21 we notice that there was a special conduct and suitability for one who was a priest. Now in Christianity every believer is a priest, but there is, nevertheless, a greater responsibility upon one who takes the place of a leader. (James 3:11My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation. (James 3:1).) Any of us who take such a place ought to be especially careful that our walk does not hinder our talk. If we are careless about little things, we may he sure others will notice it, and the truth of God will be brought into reproach. Needless to say every believer should be exercised about these things, but especially those who are active in the Lord’s service. (1 Tim. 3:7; 4:167Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil. (1 Timothy 3:7)
16Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee. (1 Timothy 4:16).)
ML 04/01/1951