Justin Houtz

Leviticus 18-19; Psalm 13; Acts 19

DateVersionReading Plan
February 12, 2026ESV (2016)ESV Life Journal Plan – 2026

Leviticus 18-19

Observation & Interpretation

The giving of the law continues in these chapters, containing details on which the people were to live in honor and obedience to the LORD. Particularly compelling is the repetition of “I am the LORD” or “I am the LORD your God” that conclude many sections of statutes and rules given. Continuing to go back to who God is provided the people with the divine “why” of their full devotion. The highest purpose of following these laws were not personal or even collective flourishing (although this was certainly a benefit), but to acknowledge the LORD God and their belonging to Him. In much the same way, those transformed to the gospel joyfully respond in adherence to the LORD’s commands as a means of worship, devotion and recognition of Him as Creator, Sustainer and Redeemer of all things.

Psalm 13

Prayer

Father, help me to trust in Your steadfast love, that my heart rejoices in your salvation. Help me to sing to you all my days because You have dealt bountifully with me.

Acts 19

Observation & Interpretation

The riot at Ephesus (vv. 23-41) displays many aspects of fallen human nature as it plays out in large group settings. A disturbance arose through a man named Demetrius who gathered the craftsmen and workmen in similar trades to stir dissension against Paul for persuading many that their gods made of human hands were not gods. He posited that there was danger that their great goddess Artemis would come to disrepute and be deposed her magnificence. In response, they cried out in allegiance to Artemis and the city was filled with confusion. The chaos and confusion spread in such a way that some cried one thing and some another—typical of mob mentality in which heightened emotions eclipse rationality, leading to people not knowing why they had even come together.

Reading of this and seeing its frequent expression in the modern day provides a healthy reminder that the human condition has not changed. We remain in our sin as descendants of Adam, desperate in our need of reconciliation to the Father through salvation in Christ alone, of hearts transformed and continuously sanctified by the Holy Spirit.

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