March 1

Numbers 6:1-27

Numbers 10:1-36

God covered some last minute details before He moved the Israelites to a different location. For example, He spelled out the specifics for those who wanted to take the Nazarite vow. He also gave instructions for Aaron’s High Priestly prayer and the commands to make and use the silver trumpets. Then, you read about Israel’s first organized trek through the desert; it took about three days. God led them to the Wilderness of Paran.

Everything proceeded as planned. Israel gained some experience marching in an organized military manner, in the correct order, behind their banners. The priests and Levites led the way, with the Ark of the Covenant out front and the other pieces of the tabernacle close behind. All was well, but that would soon change.

Let’s go back and consider the Nazarite vow. This vow has always fascinated me, perhaps because we don’t know much about it. We do know that the Hebrew word nazir means “to be separated or set apart.” Though anyone (male or female) could be a Nazarite, we only know of three men in the Bible who took the vow — Samuel (1 Samuel 2:8-28), Samson (Judges 13:1-5), and John the Baptist (Luke 1:13-17). The vow also intrigues me because of its symbolism. It was voluntary, temporary, and included three interesting requirements.

First, one had to abstain from drinking wine. In fact, one couldn’t even touch the seeds or skins of the grapes from which wine was squeezed. While that seems strange to us, when dealing with our fleshly vices or greatest temptations, it’s a good idea to draw the line as far back as possible in order to avoid stumbling in that area.

Second, a Nazarite could not touch any dead thing, or his separation would be compromised.

We, as Christians, are called to be separated from the “dead” things of this world. Otherwise our Christian testimony could be compromised.

Finally, Nazarites were not supposed to cut their hair, at least as long as their vow was kept. You could always tell how faithful a Nazarite had been by the length of his hair. Can others see evidence of our faithfulness to God?

Daily Reflection

The Old Testament Nazarites have been replaced with Christians, those who surrender and sacrifice in order to follow the Lord. As a Christ follower, you have “taken a vow” to be distinct, set apart for God’s purposes. How are you doing with overcoming habitual sin, freeing yourself from worldly desires, and being obedient to God’s Word?

Can others tell that you have “made a vow” to honor the Lord, or do you blend in with the lost world around you?

“I urge you, therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies a living and holy sacrifice, acceptable to God, which is your spiritual service of worship” (Romans 12:1 NASB).

BiAY.org | Day 60 — 305 Days to Go