Justin Houtz

Leviticus 19, Acts 20

DateVersionReading Plan
April 19, 2025ESV (2016)OT/NT Plan 2025 – 2027

Leviticus 19

Observation

The LORD spoke to Moses to speak to the people of Israel, telling them that they were to be holy, for the LORD their God is holy (Lev. 19:1-2). The LORD through Moses then provided laws for holy, God-honoring conduct. Such laws consisted of how they were to not fashion idols, how they were to make offerings, treat others and proper eating. The people were to be obedient, just and equitable in their ways, observing all the LORD’s statutes and rules, and do them, for He is the LORD their God.

Application

Fifteen times the LORD gave the people the ultimate reason why they were actively adhere to the LORD’s laws and statutes: “I am the LORD”. There need be no other basis for obedience than in realizing that our LORD alone possesses such right to command. He is the Creator of all things and therefore sets the terms by which we can live to glorify Him. And do so ought, striving to faithfully carry out all that He has graciously provided by HIs Word, that by this we would reflect the One we serve and exalt His name throughout the earth.

Acts 20

Observation

The chapter depicts Paul’s travels to Macedonia and Greece, his long speech where Eutychus fell to his death and Paul stretched out over him and he was taken away alive as well as Paul’s speech to the Ephesian elders. It was the latter that was particularly compelling, where Paul recounted all that had happened, that he did not shrink from declaring to them anything profitable, acknowledging the Spirit’s testimony to him that imprisonment and afflictions await him in every city. In all this, he did not count his life as precious to himself, if only he finish his course and ministry he had received from the Lord Jesus to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.

Application

Only by God’s providence were these words of Paul for me today in a moment of great need to read them. I wrestle greatly with fear, holding tightly to things for which I ultimately have no control. It is a battle waged daily as when things are going well, I tend to guard and protect my prosperity. What freedom is found in having such sin revealed, realizing that I have been trying to count my life as precious to myself, to be given opportunity to repent, focusing instead on the course and ministry I have received from the Lord Jesus in testifying to the gospel of the grace of God.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You that You have given us Your Word by which we can live in a way that honors You. Father, help me by Your Spirit to remain steadfast in my resolve to abide in You, ever renewed and deepened in my understanding of who You are and what You have done. Father, thank You for convicting my heart of my sin. Help to live out a courageous faith in who You are, fearless and in full surrender to Your sovereign Lordship.

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