Numbers 23:1-5 (ESV)

Originally published 10/08/2015

- God blessed Israel and they defeated the Amorites who were trying to destroy them. Israel had a place to live, and they were safe. "While Israel lived in Shittim, the people began to whore with the daughters of Moab. These invited the people to the sacrifices of their gods, and the people ate and bowed down to their gods. So Israel yoked himself to Baal of Peor. And the anger of the LORD was kindled against Israel. And the LORD said to Moses, 'Take all the chiefs of the people and hang them in the sun before the LORD, that the fierce anger of the LORD may turn away from Israel.' And Moses said to the judges of Israel, 'Each of you kill those of his men who have yoked themselves to Baal of Peor'" Numbers 25:1-5 (ESV). No army could destroy God's people, but lust did. God is the Lord of those who live as he commands. The men of Israel abandoned God's commands with regard to sex to live like pagans. To protect those who were living by his commands he had to destroy this pagan influence. Lord, there are temptations to lust on the internet and television everywhere. Remind me that lust is obedience to Satan, and give me self-control to turn away from the temptations.

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