Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart: God’s instructions for camp purity in Numbers 5 remind us to guard our hearts from spiritual impurity and hidden sins. Just as Israel was commanded to remove unclean things from their midst, believers today are called to keep their hearts pure through obedience, faithful giving, spiritual vigilance, and truthful self-examination. Staying spiritually clean protects us, our families, and our community from harm and keeps God’s blessings flowing in our lives.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
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Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
Scriptures used in this lesson:
Numbers 5:11-17, Numbers 5:1-2, Malachi 3:8-11, Luke 12:34, Deuteronomy 14:23, Deuteronomy 28:58-62, Deuteronomy 28:63-68,
Laws Concerning Camp Purity and Testing Unfaithfulness
Numbers 5:11-16
11 Then the LORD spoke to Moses, saying,
12 “Speak to the sons of Israel and say to them, ‘If any man’s wife goes astray and is unfaithful to him,
13 and a man has intercourse with her and it is hidden from the eyes of her husband and she is
undetected, although she has defiled herself, and there is no witness against her and she has not been caught in the act,
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
14 if a spirit of jealousy comes over him and he is jealous of his wife when she has defiled herself, or if a spirit of jealousy comes over him and he is jealous of his wife when she has not defiled herself,
15 the man shall then bring his wife to the priest, and shall bring {as} an offering for her one-tenth of anephah of barley meal; he shall not pour oil on it nor put frankincense on it, for it is a grain offering of jealousy, a grain offering of memorial, a reminder of iniquity.
16 ‘Then the priest shall bring her near and have her stand before the LORD,
Numbers 5:1-2
1 Then the LORD spoke to Moses, saying,
2 “Command the sons of Israel that they send away from the camp every leper and everyone having a
discharge and everyone who is unclean because of a {dead} person.
The Organization and Responsibilities in the Camp
God had already numbered the people and organized them around the camp. He gave instructions about moving and setting up the tabernacle, assigning responsibilities for each task. Now, He was shifting the focus to something new.
The Selection and Role of Elders
God spoke to Moses and told him to choose men from all the tribes who would stand with him. God gave Moses the names of the elders. Their primary duties were to help communicate God’s message to the people and to minister to their needs.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
From this idea of “those who stand with you,” we spent several weeks studying about elders in the church. This in-depth study gave me a clearer understanding of the role of elders, increased my confidence about their responsibilities, and I believe it helped the elders themselves. It showed us all what a true elder is meant to be—setting some free from wrong ideas and confirming the right ones.
I am sharing these thoughts as a review before moving into the next part of Numbers. One key point is that God instructed Moses to give God’s word to the elders, and the elders were then responsible for passing that message on to the people. This principle is laid out in Exodus 4:31.
The Spiritual Function and Example of Elders
Moses was tending Jethro’s sheep when he saw a burning bush that was not consumed. As he approached, God spoke to him from the bush. God told Moses to go to the elders of Israel and instruct them to give His message to the people. Moses followed God’s directions and spoke to the elders, who then communicated God’s word to the people. This pattern became the foundation of the role of elders in the church, as shown in Exodus 4:31.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
The elders were not only messengers but also shared spiritual truths, such as the instructions about marking the doorposts with blood. God would tell Moses, who in turn told the elders, and they would pass that message to the people. The elders acted as God’s mouthpiece, ministering to the people.
The elders also played a part in manifesting the presence of God. When Moses was told to bring Aaron, Nadab, Abihu, and the elders up the mountain, they sought God together and experienced His presence. Their role included helping the people experience God and serving as spiritual leaders for the whole community.
Cultivating God’s Presence in Leadership
In our current leadership meetings, the main goal is to bring forth the presence of the God of Israel. If the seven of us leaders cannot experience God’s presence when we are together, it is unlikely we will experience it during a larger Sunday gathering. We must learn how to create an environment where God’s presence is real among us. This way, we can also help everyone who comes together feel His presence.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
The elders have a special role in manifesting God’s presence for the people. Elders are meant to walk in the same spirit as the leader. This unity is essential and is emphasized in Numbers 11:16. Reading from the Scriptures helps remind us of these truths and the responsibilities given to elders.
Shared Anointing and Teamwork Among Elders
Numbers 11:16-17
16 The LORD therefore said to Moses, “Gather for Me seventy men from the elders of Israel, whom you know to be the elders of the people and their officers and bring them to the tent of meeting, and let them take their stand there with you.
17 ” Then I will come down and speak with you there, and I will take of the Spirit who is upon you, and will put {Him} upon them; and they shall bear the burden of the people with you, so that you will not bear {it} all alone.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
God wanted Moses to gather the elders so He could share His Spirit with them. The reason was so the elders could help Moses carry the burdens of the people. Whenever the Bible talks about true elders, it describes them as men of valor who take God’s message and minister it to others.
The elders’ purpose was to support the leader and share responsibility, so one person would not carry the load alone. There are too many situations where one person tries to do everything, but that is not what God intended. The goal is to avoid the one-man show and encourage elders to take part in caring for and guiding the church.
Elders should manifest God’s presence and help with the burdens of the ministry. The people need counseling and God’s principles worked into their lives, and elders are meant to help meet those needs. This is how leadership and support should function in the body.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
Mature Eldership and Spiritual Leadership
In Joshua 8:33, the elders showed maturity when they fell on their faces and sought God for answers to problems. They understood blessings and curses, pointing to their spiritual growth. Mature ministry, as seen in places like 1 John, is marked by an eternal perspective. Spiritual fathers in the church grasp God’s eternal purposes and share this knowledge with others. This depth is what mature believers should minister to the church.
After exploring these ideas in the Old Testament, the same principles were found in the New Testament. New Testament elders also share the same spirit as the leader. They were responsible for distributing benevolence, as shown in Acts 11, when Paul gave the collection to the elders to distribute. Elders were ordained and commended to the Lord in Acts 14:23, showing they became God’s hands as they ministered.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
Elders made major decisions for the church, like at the Council of Jerusalem in Acts 15, where the issue of circumcision was debated. Just as in the past, church elders today still face challenging and controversial decisions, needing wisdom and maturity to guide the people.
Authority, Ministry, and Diversity Among Elders
The elders played a significant role in deciding essential church matters, such as whether believers needed to be circumcised. They also cared for and guarded the flock, protecting the church from harmful influences, as described in Acts 20. Elders had the responsibility to feed the church spiritually and to watch over its well-being.
In James 5:14-15, elders are called to minister healing and forgiveness. Sick believers could call for the elders, who would pray for them and offer forgiveness for sins. This shows the special authority and spiritual role God gives to elders and to all who are called.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
Spiritually speaking, elders have authority, described as sitting on thrones and wearing crowns. This is not physical but shows the influence and responsibility they carry within the church. Each elder has different strengths and areas of authority. For example, Steve Weaver uses his gift for healing to minister to people, while Steve Lytle prefers a free-flowing, charismatic approach and leads with a relaxed attitude. Each elder brings personal strengths, and together they help guide the church.
Each of us has a unique sphere of authority where we serve best. In Revelation 4:10, elders are shown worshiping and praising God by continually bowing down before Him. This shows their devotion and spiritual leadership.
This study has helped build confidence in all of us—not just to know what is expected of us, but also what we should give to others. The focus is not on our personal expectations but on what the Scriptures, the Lord, and the body of believers truly need. These lessons took many weeks, and we learned a great deal about the responsibilities God gives.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
God told Moses that certain men should stand with him. The Levites, designated to care for the tabernacle, were one tribe among thirteen in Israel. Today, we see a similar pattern where about one-thirteenth of the church carries most of the ministry’s work. These dedicated people often take on extra tasks, supporting the daily needs of the group.
Lessons on Obedience, Service, and Rebellion
It is important to remember that obedience can easily turn to rebellion if we do not remain watchful. Even those who were once willing to follow Moses would later rebel. Everyone must guard their hearts and stay committed to doing what God commands.
We genuinely do not want to rebel against God, and our intentions are usually good. However, just like the Israelites, we can still end up rebelling because of challenges we face on our journey with the Lord. Sometimes, we become disappointed or see the flaws in leaders we admire. Moses himself was a human vessel and had weaknesses that people noticed, and even the enemy would try to use those against him. Living close to others always reveals their imperfections.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
Some pastors choose to live away from their congregation, maybe thinking it is wise. But being distant means losing the ability to share in the burdens and feelings of the people honestly. Genuine relationships require closeness, empathy, and shared experiences.
Obedience and respect today do not guarantee that we will always feel the same. People may trust a leader now, but could question them later. In the end, the cost for the Israelites was high—it cost them their whole lives as they wandered in the wilderness. This teaches us the importance of understanding and following the principles of God, remembering that every choice has consequences.
The Role of the Set Man and Spiritual Vision
God appoints a leader, often called the “set man,” to guide His people. This leader is not perfect, but he serves as God’s chosen voice to the group.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
In the camp of Israel, every family would set up their tents by their own standard or sign. Today’s churches do something similar by identifying themselves with signs. Where we settle gives us a particular view of God. Those who gather in a local church usually adopt the same vision and understanding as the leader and community.
However, this does not mean we see the whole picture. Often, our perspective is only part of what God wants to reveal. To gain a true vision, we must rise above human limitations and seek God’s heavenly viewpoint. Only then can we see things the way God sees them and not just from where we are positioned. We need to move beyond a limited, earthly perspective and seek the vision that comes from God alone.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
The Legacy of Aaron and Moses
The generations of Aaron and Moses are listed in the Scriptures, but Moses’ line is unique. Moses did have children, but they are not counted like Aaron’s descendants. Moses’ wife Zipporah did not support him, and when she left, she took their sons, Gershom and Eleazar, with her. These sons were never mentioned again. Later, Moses married an Ethiopian woman, but he did not have a lasting family line. This detail gives us some insight into Moses’ personal life.
The Impact of Parental Faithfulness on the Next Generation
Aaron’s sons, Nadab and Abihu, had a tragic story. They died before the Lord for offering “strange fire.” It was Aaron’s responsibility, as their father, to oversee the spiritual duties of prayer, fire, and incense for God, but he neglected this role. Because of this, his children paid the price.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
This lesson teaches that the work and faith of parents deeply affect their children. If parents fail to fulfill their spiritual responsibilities, their children may suffer as a result. Spiritual ministry is not something that children can do for their parents, but the faithfulness of parents does have a direct impact on the lives of their children.
Nadab and Abihu were the oldest sons of Aaron, and they were punished for offering “strange fire.” This happened because their father, Aaron, was not carrying out his spiritual duties. The word “strange” here means foreign, showing that someone other than Aaron was doing what God had commanded him to do. The lesson is that each generation must worship God for themselves; children cannot worship on behalf of their parents. If parents neglect their spiritual roles, their children may suffer the consequences.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
Identity and Calling in Service: The Levites’ Example
The Levites were given to Aaron to serve him. This idea of service may sound uncomfortable today, especially since many people have seen examples of corrupt or failed ministry. Indeed, the ministry has often suffered from problems, even since biblical times. Despite this, we are still called to serve faithfully.
For the Levites, service was not forced—it was built into their very identity. They served Aaron not just because someone told them to, but because that was who they were. In the same way, faithful servants serve out of their calling, not just because they are told to serve.
Everyone Has a Part in the Kingdom
When we examine our hearts, we must ask if we are staying distant or if we are serving closely, like the Levites. This study has revealed many essential principles. The sons of Levi—Gershom, Kohath, and Merari—each had duties to help move and set up the tabernacle. We spent several weeks learning about everyone’s specific responsibilities.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
In God’s kingdom, everyone has a role to play. Not everyone can do the same job, but all tasks are essential. If each person faithfully carries their part, the whole community can move forward into God’s promise. Progress stops when people refuse to do their share. Moving on together requires everyone to do their part, so the church can reach the next place that God has prepared.
The Principle and Power of Spiritual Multiplication
We must be ready to move when God leads. Moving means change, whether it is a new location or a shift in how we see things. Stepping into new territory forces us out of our comfort zones and opens us up to new experiences and challenges. Often, we prefer to stay where life is familiar and comfortable, but that is not always where God is guiding us.
Looking at the story of Levi, we see that 200 years after his death, he had 44,600 descendants. This shows how one person’s faithfulness can multiply across generations. If each believer helps just one person come into God’s kingdom, and that person does the same, the results will grow quickly. Spiritually, if this pattern continues, one could impact tens of thousands of lives over generations.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
We may not usually think in these terms, but imagine if each of us brought someone to faith in Christ. This multiplying effect could lead to real change and growth among believers, making a real difference over time.
Introduction to the Laws of Holiness in Numbers 5
As we prepare to study Numbers chapter 5, I wanted to review some key ideas and principles first. This next section is quite different from what we have been discussing, and it represents a new area of study. Numbers 5 introduces concepts that I had to consider and apply to our lives carefully. I spent time seeking God’s guidance to understand their meaning.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
One part of Numbers 5 deals with what is often called “the test for an unfaithful wife” or “the adultery test.” The passage describes a ritual where, if a husband suspects his wife of being unfaithful without proof, she is brought before the priest. There is a special procedure involving holy water and a written pledge. This test is outlined in Scripture, and we will explore it in detail next week.
This topic is much different than previous lessons about the tabernacle. I wanted everyone to see how lesson topics can shift in surprising ways. Reviewing God’s principles helps us prepare for new and sometimes challenging scripture passages. And as always, I seek God’s help to understand and apply these truths.
The Central Theme of Numbers: Community, Order, and Holiness
The book of Numbers is about life in the camp—the community, the order, and the spiritual walk of God’s people living together. The first chapters cover different topics: chapter one is about counting the warriors, chapter two arranges the tribes, and chapters three and four focus on moving the tabernacle and the camp. Chapters five and six shift to remaining holy while living together as God’s people.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
One key principle is that God speaks to His people. He gives clear commands, not just suggestions. However, many believers today treat the Word of God as if it were optional advice. During counseling, people often admit they know what the Word says, but still do not follow it.
I want to emphasize that God’s Word is a command, not a suggestion. This is especially important when it comes to things like tithing and gathering for worship. I feel strongly about this and want to share from my heart the reasons why we must treat God’s instructions with seriousness and not as something we should only do if it is convenient.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
Tithing, Obedience, and God’s Blessing
Malachi 3:8-11
8 Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings.
9 Ye are cursed with a curse: for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation.
10 Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.
11 And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the LORD of hosts.
There are three main reasons why we tithe. First, the Bible teaches in Malachi 3:8-11 that withholding tithes and offerings is seen as robbing God. This situation brings a curse, not just to one person but to the entire community. If someone does not tithe, it affects everyone because God’s blessings are withheld.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
Tithing is presented as a command, not just an option. When people tithe, God promises to open the windows of heaven and pour out blessings. God also promises to rebuke the devourer and protect what people have. This is another strong reason to tithe, since God Himself promises both spiritual and practical benefits.
In Scripture, the “Lord of hosts” means the Lord of all the angels. God says that if we tithe, He will send His heavenly host to work on our behalf. So, tithing is connected with God’s blessing, protection, and the help of heaven. That is why tithing should be taken seriously and treated as a clear command from God.
When someone does not tithe or give to God’s purposes, they block the flow of heaven’s blessings in their life. During a recent discussion, we talked about how setting money aside is necessary to accomplish God’s work, whether it is for missions or other parts of His vision. Money given to the storehouse is crucial for God’s will to be carried out. The goal is not just to build impressive buildings, but to reach the world and fulfill God’s purpose.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
If you do not give, you are robbing God and shutting heaven over your life. This also means the devourer is not rebuked, so trouble has greater access. For example, if someone like Steve gives faithfully, then heaven’s blessings are available to him. But if someone else, like Sele, does not tithe, then the devourer can attack his life, and his finances remain unprotected.
Praying for financial blessing or using rituals will not open heaven’s windows if the person is not tithing. The only way to restore God’s blessing and protection is by giving and supporting God’s vision. Faithful giving is the key to opening heaven over your life and keeping the devourer away.
Starting to tithe is an important step. Many people will have questions about giving and may talk to you about it. I want you to understand not only the biblical reasons for tithing but also why it matters so much to me personally.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
My desire is for your life to be blessed. When you are blessed, you can be a blessing to this ministry and others. If you are not experiencing God’s blessing, it also affects those around you, including me and the community. That is why I am passionate about this topic and why I want to share my heart and biblical understanding on the subject.
The second reason I give to you is that I see a heart leaving the kingdom, not only our church.
Luke 12:34
34 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
Jesus taught that where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. If someone gives to the kingdom of God, it shows their heart is there. If they stop giving, it usually means their heart is no longer committed. When a person stops tithing, it often signals that they are slowly pulling away from their faith and the church.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
In my experience, this process happens gradually. People become less faithful to the church, then their giving becomes irregular, and soon after, they stop coming altogether. Most of the time, those who stop tithing don’t just leave the church—they step away from God’s presence and protection. This is what the Bible calls backsliding. Such people become isolated and vulnerable, without fellowship or spiritual support.
This is why tithing is such a strong spiritual indicator, or thermometer, of where someone’s heart truly is. Where your treasure is, your heart will also be. Faithful giving reveals a heart connected to God and His people, while withholding it often points to a heart drifting away.
Deuteronomy 14:23
23 And thou shalt eat before the LORD thy God, in the place which he shall choose to place his name there, the tithe of thy corn, of thy wine, and of thine oil, and the firstlings of thy herds and of thy flocks; that thou mayest learn to fear the LORD thy God always.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
The third reason for tithing is that it teaches us to fear God. Deuteronomy 14:23 explains that giving the tithe helps us learn always to respect and honor the Lord. The word “always” emphasizes that tithing should be a continual habit.
When a person consistently tithes, it demonstrates their reverence for God. But when tithing stops, it often leads to a loss of respect for God. This not only affects the individual but can also bring trouble to their family and even to future generations. Faithfulness in tithing helps to cultivate a healthy fear of the Lord in our lives.
Warning and Principles on Disobedience and Spiritual Consequences
Deuteronomy 28:58-62
58 If thou wilt not observe to do all the words of this law that are written in this book, that thou mayest fear this glorious and fearful name, THE LORD THY GOD;
59 Then the LORD will make thy plagues wonderful, and the plagues of thy seed, even great plagues, and of long continuance, and sore sicknesses, and of long continuance.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
60 Moreover he will bring upon thee all the diseases of Egypt, which thou wast afraid of; and they shall cleave unto thee.
61 Also every sickness, and every plague, which is not written in the book of this law, them will the LORD bring upon thee, until thou be destroyed.
62 And ye shall be left few in number, whereas ye were as the stars of heaven for multitude; because thou wouldest not obey the voice of the LORD thy God.
Deuteronomy 28:58-68 warns about what happens when people do not obey God’s commandments or fear His name. If we refuse to follow God and lack reverence for Him, severe consequences will follow. God promises that plagues and troubles will impact not just the individual but also their children and future generations.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
Not tithing or neglecting God’s instructions not only affects you, but also others. It can bring hardship to your family and descendants as well. God’s principles are eternal, and He looks beyond the present moment. When we stop giving or gathering faithfully, we risk closing ourselves off from God’s protection and blessings. This brings spiritual and even practical consequences, as everyone connected may face sorrow, sickness, or difficulty as a result.
Practical and Spiritual Effects of Disobedience
The scripture talks about “long countenances” or persistent sadness, and also mentions sickness. Some homes seem to lack joy, filled with constant arguing and sadness among parents and children. This may happen when people disobey God’s commands or lack a genuine fear of Him. As a result, their children may also suffer from sadness and sickness.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
God warns that all the diseases and troubles experienced in Egypt will cling to those who turn away from Him. Even those who belong to God can face these problems if they do not follow His word. While some teach that believers are free from curses, real-life experiences show that many still struggle when they neglect God’s instructions. Disobedience can even lead to a decrease in blessings and the well-being of entire families or communities.
Deuteronomy 28:63-68
63 And it shall come to pass, that as the LORD rejoiced over you to do you good, and to multiply you; so the LORD will rejoice over you to destroy you, and to bring you to nought; and ye shall be plucked from off the land whither thou goest to possess it.
64 And the LORD shall scatter thee among all people, from the one end of the earth even unto the other; and there thou shalt serve other gods, which neither thou nor thy fathers have known, even wood and stone.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
65 And among these nations shalt thou find no ease, neither shall the sole of thy foot have rest: but the LORD shall give thee there a trembling heart, and failing of eyes, and sorrow of mind:
66 And thy life shall hang in doubt before thee; and thou shalt fear day and night, and shalt have none assurance of thy life:
67 In the morning thou shalt say, Would God it were even! and at even thou shalt say, Would God it were morning! for the fear of thine heart wherewith thou shalt fear, and for the sight of thine eyes which thou shalt see.
68 And the LORD shall bring thee into Egypt again with ships, by the way whereof I spake unto thee, Thou shalt see it no more again: and there ye shall be sold unto your enemies for bondmen and bondwomen, and no man shall buy you.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
The passage describes how people begin to lose their blessings and even their lives when they turn away from God. God initially desired to bless and multiply His people, but disobedience and lack of reverence led to destruction and loss. Those who stray from God end up losing their land and facing insecurity wherever they go.
There is no peace for those who disobey. Instead, their hearts are full of fear, and their minds are constantly troubled. They worry day and night and feel doubtful about their purpose and future. Life feels empty and meaningless, full of anxiety both morning and evening.
Eventually, this separation from God leads back into bondage, just like going back to Egypt. No one can rescue them from this state, and they suffer as a result. The root cause for these troubled and unhappy lives is a failure to obey God’s word and to truly fear and respect His name. Disobedience removes the protection and blessing that obedience brings.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
The Core of Spiritual Living: Fear God and Keep His Commandments
Many people do not treat God’s word as a command, so they do not truly fear Him. If someone respects and fears God, they will obey what He says. This is similar to how we listened to our parents out of respect or fear. Genuine belief is shown by action and obedience.
I emphasize tithing for three main reasons. First, when someone does not tithe, they bring a curse upon themselves. God’s blessings are blocked, and even their prayers become ineffective. This curse does not just affect the individual, but also their family and others around them.
Second, not tithing is a sign of pulling away from God’s kingdom. It shows a heart drifting from God and leads to spiritual decline or backsliding.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
Third, a lack of tithing shows a lack of fear of God. Without this fear, people face trouble, hardship, and destruction in their lives and families. Homes become broken, finances suffer, and relationships fall apart—all because God’s commandments were not honored.
King Solomon, known for his wisdom and riches, concluded in Ecclesiastes that true happiness comes from one thing: “Fear God and keep His commandments.” Everything else fails to bring satisfaction. Obedience and respect for God are what truly matter and protect us in life.
Laws Concerning Leprosy: The Principle of Spiritual Purity
We will soon discuss the topic of lepers and what God told Moses to do about them. God commanded Moses to remove the leper from the camp. If the leper stayed, the disease could spread, since leprosy is highly contagious and destructive. In biblical times, leprosy could ruin someone’s body, leaving terrible wounds and no cure.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
Leprosy is also seen as a symbol for sin in Scripture. If the leper remained among the people, the disease would eventually infect everyone in the home or camp. For example, if you allowed someone with leprosy to stay in your tent secretly, that person’s disease would be passed to everyone they touched. The contamination would keep spreading.
This principle teaches that although we should love people, we must not allow the consequences of sin or spiritual sickness to spread in our lives. Ministering to someone caught in sin does not mean we participate in or become contaminated by that sin. We are called to show compassion but also to maintain spiritual boundaries, protecting ourselves and others from the effects of sin.
Spiritual Contamination and Its Effects
The lesson here is that spiritual contamination, symbolized by leprosy, cannot be removed by ordinary means. If you get too close to someone who has been spiritually contaminated, that influence can spread to you and your family, and eventually to others as well. This is not something you can wash away quickly; it lingers and affects the whole group.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
We all encounter people who are upset or have been influenced by negative things, and if we are not careful, we can become affected too. No one is immune; everyone has been exposed to this kind of influence at some point. Spiritual contamination “eats” at us, and it is difficult to get rid of once it takes hold.
The vital principle is to recognize when this is happening and to guard ourselves. Being aware and setting boundaries is crucial because this type of spiritual problem is persistent and hard to cure. We all know how challenging it can be when negative attitudes or sin spread, and that is why it is important to stay watchful and careful.
Sustaining Spiritual Health and Honesty About Struggles
Spiritual contamination, like leprosy, deeply affects us. It drains us emotionally and spiritually, causing pain and discouragement that can be hard to shake. This often happens when we disobey God’s Word, lose our reverence for Him, or ignore His commands.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
If we don’t keep away from harmful influences, it’s easy to become infected ourselves. This lesson goes beyond leprosy—other spiritual problems can spread the same way. I want you to know how deeply this has affected me, too. I have felt contaminated and wanted to give up many times—not just in one church, but in my journey through the kingdom of God.
Many of us have struggled with the thought of quitting. Often, it is because we were influenced by someone who was spiritually contaminated. It’s important to recognize when this is happening and to understand that everyone faces these battles. We must be honest about this struggle and support one another as we seek to remain spiritually healthy and faithful.
Closing Prayer and a Call for Healing
Let’s end with prayer, asking God to help us apply what we’ve learned. We seek His help to understand His way and to remain strong and wise. Everyone here loves the Lord, His church, and His vision, but we all need God’s help and wisdom to stay faithful.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 How to Guard the Camp of Your Heart
We ask God to heal our wounds and cleanse us, since we all have been affected or contaminated in some way—if not yet, then likely in the future. Only God’s Spirit can provide the deep cleansing we need. Let’s keep praying and let the Lord minister to every heart.
Many of us have felt spiritual hurt and discouragement, and God wants to unify and heal us. He wants us to recognize the enemy’s tactics and remain together in His purpose. We don’t want to be left out or isolated; we want to be present and available for what God has planned.
Lord, cleanse us, to reach us in any place of weakness or discouragement, and to minister healing to us. Some have come through difficult times and need more healing, while others may be facing such struggles soon. God wants us to understand this process and be ready, knowing that these trials affect many and are not uncommon. He desires to heal us and help us move forward together as His people.
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 – How to Unleash Celestial Blessings
Book Of Numbers 5:1-2 – How to Unleash Celestial Blessings
Other Related Sermons:
The Book Of Numbers 10:30-11:6
Camping with the Enemy sermon notes video
Also see: