Strength in Silence
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Finding Peace in God’s Presence
Adopting seven children has brought more joy, love, and yes, chaos into my life than I ever imagined. My days are filled with laughter, questions, and a constant hum of activity. Even though some of my children are now adults, each day someone, somewhere needs something—a ride, advice, a meal, or just a listening ear. But in the midst of the noise and the never-ending demands, I’ve discovered the profound importance of seeking peace in God’s presence. It’s in those rare quiet moments—when the house finally settles—that I find the strength and serenity my soul desperately needs.
The Power of Stillness
Reflecting on my journey, I’m often reminded of my dear friend Thomas Graumann, whose story I had the privilege of sharing in Twice Rescued Child. Thomas lost his entire family in the Holocaust, yet he found incredible strength in the silence of God’s presence. His resilience and unwavering faith remain a testament to the peace that surpasses all understanding, as Philippians 4:7 promises:
“And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
This verse isn’t just a nice sentiment; it’s a lifeline. Whether it’s navigating adoption, tackling homeschooling, or simply keeping up with daily life, I’ve found God’s peace is often the only thing that sustains me.
Hearing God in the Quiet
Late at night, when the house is still and my heart feels heavy, I often pour out my worries and exhaustion to God. It’s in those moments, as I sit in silence, that I sense His comforting presence. Much like Elijah in 1 Kings 19:12, I’ve learned that God’s voice isn’t always in the loud and dramatic. Sometimes, He speaks in a gentle whisper—a reminder that His presence is most often found in the stillness.
Three Ways to Recognize God’s Peace in Your Life
1. Through Prayer and Reflection
Setting aside intentional time to sit with God opens the door for His peace to fill your heart. Whether it’s praying, meditating on Scripture, or simply being still in His presence, these moments allow you to hear His gentle whisper.
- Start your day with five minutes of quiet reflection, inviting God to calm your mind and guide your steps.
2. In Nature’s Quiet Beauty
Stepping outside and immersing yourself in God’s creation has a way of quieting the noise in your mind. The beauty of a sunrise, the sound of rustling leaves, or the stillness of a starry night reminds us of God’s constant care and provision.
- Take a short walk in nature and intentionally thank God for His creation.
3. By Surrendering Your Worries
When we cast our anxieties on God, as instructed in 1 Peter 5:7, we make room for His peace to replace our fears. Trusting His plan gives us the strength to face challenges with confidence and calm.
- Write down your worries and pray over them, asking God to carry the burdens you’re holding.
A Prayer for Peace
Dear Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the gift of Your peace that surpasses all understanding. Help us to seek Your presence in the stillness and find strength in Your gentle whisper. Teach us to surrender our worries and trust fully in Your plan. May Your peace guard our hearts and minds, filling us with the assurance of Your unfailing love.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Reflection Questions
- How have you experienced God’s peace in moments of silence?
- What practices help you find strength in God’s presence during challenging times?
- How can you create more opportunities for stillness and reflection in your daily life?
In our busy and often overwhelming world, let’s make room for God’s gentle whispers. His peace has the power to transform not only our hearts but also the way we approach our days. May we find solace and strength in those quiet moments with Him, trusting His love to carry us through every season.
Call to Action: What practices or moments have helped you experience God’s peace? Share your story in the comments—I’d love to learn from your journey and encourage one another!
~Tricia
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Weekly readings for the Daily Bible Podcast with Tricia and Michelle
February 17
Leviticus 4-6
What If I Don’t Mean to Sin?
In the heart of the Old Testament, the book of Leviticus presents a fascinating study of sin, sacrifice, and atonement. Today’s reading focused on the concept of unintentional sin..
The Reality of Unintentional Sin
“Sin unintentionally” – these words capture the essence of actions taken without malice but still in violation of divine laws. Leviticus underscores a critical truth: ignorance of sin does not mean we’re not guilty. Whether it’s the high priest, the entire community, a leader, or the common people, each group is held accountable for their actions, even when those actions are unintentional. What sacrifices were required? A bull for the high priest and the community, a male goat for a leader, and a female goat for common individuals. These offerings symbolize the seriousness with which these unintentional sins are viewed and the lengths to which atonement must be sought.
The Process of Atonement
The rituals described for atonement involved the laying of hands on the animal, slaughtering it, and the priest applying its blood in a ceremonial fashion. These acts are not merely ritualistic; they represent a deep, symbolic cleansing and reconciliation with God. The burning of the goat’s fat on the altar, similar to the peace offering, represents the restoration of peace between the individual and God. It’s a reminder of the cost of sin and the path to forgiveness.
Leviticus as a Manual and a Mirror
The meticulous rituals of Leviticus, while distant, remind us of the importance of acknowledging our mistakes, intentional or not, and seeking reconciliation. These rituals underline a universal truth: our actions have consequences, and acknowledging our faults is the first step toward redemption.
Word of the Day: Standard
A rule or principle that is used as a basis for judgment; those morals, ethics, habits, etc., established by authority, custom, or an individual as acceptable.
The concept of “standard” serves as a powerful reminder of the benchmarks set by God for living a righteous life. These divine standards are not arbitrary. They are designed for our well-being and success. In a world where “good enough” often suffices, the call to uphold God’s standards challenges us to strive for excellence in our spiritual journey.
Applications for Today
1. Embracing Divine Standards: These divine benchmarks invite us to continually improve, not for earthly accolades but for spiritual growth.
2. Tradition vs. Truth: In our quest to live by God’s standards, we must discern between tradition and truth. The example of unintentional sins in Leviticus encourages us to examine our practices and beliefs, ensuring they align with divine truth rather than merely human tradition.
Leviticus offers a lens through which to view our imperfections and God’s infinite grace. It challenges us to reflect on our actions, intentions, and the standards by which we live. As we navigate the complexities of life, let us remember the lessons from Leviticus: to seek forgiveness, to strive for higher standards, and to cherish the grace that transforms our unintentional wrongs into opportunities for spiritual growth and renewal.
February 18
Leviticus 7-8
Daily Transformation
The phrase “these are the instructions” introduces the Guilt Offering. The Guilt Offering serves as a tangible acknowledgment of wrongdoing and a step towards reconciliation with God. The narrative transitions to the Peace Offering, symbolizing thanksgiving and voluntary dedication beyond what is required. The lifting of the offering signifies its presentation to God and the offerer’s heartfelt gratitude and commitment.
Sacred Prohibitions: The Sanctity of Blood and Fat
Leviticus 7 also addresses the solemn prohibitions against consuming blood and fat. The stringent instructions to burn the fat and thoroughly drain the blood before consumption highlight the deep reverence for life and the divine commandments, with violators facing expulsion from the community.
The Priestly Portion: Consecration and Service
The chapter delineates the portions of the Peace Offering allocated to the priests, specifically the breast and thigh. This allocation symbolizes the consecration of the priests to God and their vital role in mediating between the divine and the Israelites. It reaffirms the sacred duty of the priests to serve and uphold the sanctity of their calling.
Ordination of the Priests: Anointing for Service
Further, Leviticus revisits the ordination of the priests. The anointing of Aaron and his sons with blood on their ear, thumb, and toe not only consecrates them for divine service but also symbolizes their commitment to listen to God, perform His work, and walk in His ways.
Living as Modern-Day Priests
As we navigate the complex rituals of Leviticus, we are reminded of the broader narrative of reconciliation and holiness. God’s provision for His people to dwell in His presence is a central theme, underscoring the importance of holiness and the role of the priests as mediators and representatives of God.
In our contemporary journey of faith, we are called to embrace our role as modern-day priests. Romans 6:13 urges us to offer ourselves completely to God, using our bodies as instruments for righteousness. This calling mirrors the separation and dedication of the Levitical priests, urging us to live lives set apart for God’s glory.
Word of the Day: Exhibit
To offer or expose to view; present for inspection; to manifest or display.
Application in Daily Life: Exhibiting God’s Presence
In practical terms, being set apart for God translates into daily actions and decisions that reflect His love and righteousness. Whether it’s through loving our families, serving others, or simply being faithful in the mundane tasks of life, we exhibit God’s presence and work in the world. Our daily lives become a testament to His grace as we strive to listen, do, and walk in ways that honor Him.
Understanding and applying these ancient rituals to our lives teaches us the value of being set apart for God. We can embrace our role as His modern-day priests and live out our faith with dedication and purpose.
February 19
Leviticus 9-11
Embracing Holiness
In the heart of Leviticus, nestled between the regulations and rituals, lies a narrative that challenges us to reconsider our understanding of holiness and the presence of God among us. The journey from Exodus to Leviticus is not just a transition from one book to another; it’s a transition from a concept to a living reality, from God meeting His people on the mountain to dwelling among them in the Tabernacle.
The structure of the Tabernacle, with its distinct zones—the Holy of Holies, the inner court, and the outer court—mirrors the structured approach God desires in our relationship with Him. It’s a physical representation of how we are to approach God, with reverence and understanding of our place in His presence.
The narrative takes a dramatic turn with the story of Aaron’s sons, Nadab and Abihu, who offered unauthorized fire before the Lord and paid the ultimate price for their disobedience. This event is a stark reminder of the consequences of treating God’s holiness lightly. It’s important to respect the divine boundaries set by God, recognizing that His pure goodness becomes dangerous when we rebel against His commands.
The incident also highlights the importance of distinguishing between what is sacred and what is common. We live in a world vastly different from the open-air courtyards and the ornate tabernacle of ancient Israel. Yet, the call to holiness and the need to set apart what is sacred in our lives is still important.
In Leviticus 11, the dietary laws and the distinctions between clean and unclean animals seem distant from our contemporary concerns. However, these regulations are not just about food. They symbolize a deeper spiritual reality: call to be holy, as God is holy.
What does this mean for us today? The narrative of Leviticus invites us to reflect on the presence of God among us. It challenges us to consider how we create holy spaces in our lives to welcome God. Are we mindful of what we consider sacred? Do we approach God with the reverence He deserves? How do we embody the role of priests in our modern world, representing God before the people and the people before God?
Word of the Day: Among
In, into, or through the midst of; in association or connection with; surrounded by; in the midst of, so as to influence.
The story of Aaron and his sons, the intricate details of the Tabernacle, and the laws of cleanliness all point to the same truth: God is holy, and He calls us to share in that holiness. This is not a call to ritual purity but to a life set apart. This is marked by a deep reverence for God and a commitment to live according to His divine will. God is indeed among us, guiding us, shaping us, and calling us to be a holy people for His glory.
As we delve into these ancient rituals, we can be inspired to live out the profound and timeless truths they contain, making space for God in every aspect of our lives.
February 20
Leviticus 12-14
Rediscovering Purity
In today’s fast-paced world, the ancient texts of Leviticus, particularly chapters 12 to 14, might seem distant and difficult to relate to. Yet, upon closer examination, these Scriptures unfold profound insights into the concepts of cleanliness and uncleanliness, extending far beyond mere physical purity to touch upon a deeper, spiritual holiness in connection with God’s perfection.
Leviticus 12 offers a fascinating look into the purification process for women after childbirth, underscoring the sanctity of life and the essential role of ritual cleanliness in returning to communal worship. It prescribes a period for the mother to remain in a state of purification, culminating in a sacrificial offering to the Lord, a beautiful gesture of gratitude and recognition of life’s sacredness.
In Leviticus 13, the text delves into examining and managing skin diseases and mildew, providing priests with detailed instructions for diagnosing and handling conditions considered ‘unclean.’ This chapter emphasizes the community’s responsibility in halting the spread of disease, highlighting the importance of safeguarding both health and ritual purity.
Leviticus 14 continues this theme by extending into the cleansing rituals for leprosy, covering not just individuals but also garments and houses. While these practices may seem antiquated at first glance, they offer pathways for those affected to be restored to cleanliness and reintegrated into the community. These rituals symbolize the potential for redemption and the reattainment of holiness through adherence to divine commands, shedding light on New Testament events where Jesus, after healing someone, instructs them to “Go show yourself to the priest.”
The distinction between cleanliness and holiness within these chapters is crucial. While objects or individuals can be clean without being holy, holiness embodies a more significant dimension, linking all aspects of our lives to the divine nature of God and humanity’s reverence towards Him. This relationship is vividly portrayed in the prophets, such as in Ezekiel 22:26, where the failure to distinguish between what is holy and what is not leads to dishonor and sin.
Thus, while the immediate relevance of these Levitical laws might not be apparent, their importance is undeniable. The vigilance against uncleanliness prescribed in God’s Law plays a vital role in daily life, merging moral and ritual requirements. This mindfulness fosters a community striving for cleanliness and wholesomeness, serving both a spiritual and practical purpose in maintaining health and preventing disease.
Word of the Day: Purity
The condition or quality of being pure; freedom from anything that debases, contaminates, pollutes, etc.; freedom from guilt or evil; innocence; freedom from foreign or inappropriate elements; careful correctness.
Today’s word serves as a poignant reminder of the inner purity God calls us to. Paul’s advice in Philippians 4:8 resonates with the essence of these teachings, urging us to fix our thoughts on what is true, honorable, right, pure, lovely, and admirable—qualities that embody a life lived in alignment with God’s expectations.
So, do these chapters in Leviticus apply to us today? Absolutely. They challenge us to reflect on the nature of true cleanliness, not just outwardly but in the purity of our hearts and minds. Jesus’ words in Matthew 15:16-20 underscore this, as He points out that what defiles us comes from within, from our hearts, highlighting the importance of inner purity over external rituals.
This insight compels us to introspect and question our motives and the nature of our thoughts. Cultivating a spirit of purity, where our thoughts, actions, and words align with the values of love, kindness, and honesty, is the real challenge. With the Holy Spirit’s help, it’s about striving to let only what is noble, just, and pure take root within us.
In embracing the ancient teachings on cleanliness, coupled with Jesus’ profound clarification, we are reminded of the critical importance of both external practices for health and purity and, more importantly, of nurturing a heart that mirrors true cleanliness—morally uncontaminated, pure, and innocent. This journey towards true cleanliness is not just about adhering to ancient laws but about embodying the spirit of these teachings in our daily lives, ensuring that our hearts and actions reflect the divine purity God desires.
February 21
Leviticus 14:33-57; Leviticus 15-16
Finding Holiness in the Everyday
Leviticus might not be the first book you turn to for inspiration or guidance, but hidden within its ancient rituals and laws are timeless truths about living a life close to God. As we delve into Leviticus 14:33-57, 15, and 16, we uncover this: God cares deeply about every aspect of our lives, from our homes to our health. More than that, God provides ways for us to maintain a pure and holy relationship with Him.
A Clean Home and a Pure Heart
Imagine finding mold in your home and having a specific way to clean it, blessed by God Himself. That’s what we see in Leviticus 14. It’s not just about keeping our living spaces clean. It’s a metaphor for our lives. As Moses shared these laws, the listener would have understood that God was telling His people to keep an eye out for the ‘mold’ in their lives—sin that creeps in—and to deal with it promptly. Our external actions do reflect our internal state.
Health, Holiness, and Healing
Leviticus 15 might seem all about physical conditions, but going deeper, we also see it’s really about how our personal well-being affects our spiritual lives and those around us. We’re not just taking care of ourselves by following God’s guidance on cleanliness. We’re also respecting the community and God’s presence among us. It’s a reminder that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, and we’re called to treat them with care and respect.
The Day of Atonement: A Fresh Start
Leviticus 16, detailing the Day of Atonement, is about getting a clean slate. It’s beautiful how God provides a way for everyone—leaders and people alike—to be cleansed from their sins. This day was a profound reminder of the seriousness of sin and the incredible gift of forgiveness. It’s a day of humility, fasting, and reflection, leading to renewal and a restored relationship with God.
Word of the Day: Cleanse
To make clean; to remove by or as if by cleaning.
What This Means for Us
The rituals in Leviticus might seem distant and complicated, but they boil down to a few simple truths. God is holy and wants to live in a close relationship with us. Sin and impurity disrupt that relationship, but God doesn’t leave us without hope. He has provided a way for us to be cleansed and return to Him.
In today’s terms, it’s about looking at our lives and asking, “What needs to be cleaned up? What have I allowed to creep in that��s putting distance between me and God?” It’s about recognizing that God cares for us so deeply that He provides ways for us to return to Him, no matter how far we’ve strayed.
Embracing Cleanliness
The call to holiness is not about following a list of rules; it’s about living in a way that reflects God’s love and purity in every area of our lives. It’s about acknowledging our need for God’s cleansing power and embracing His forgiveness and grace daily.
As we reflect on the messages of Leviticus, let’s remember that God’s desire is for us to live lives marked by His presence. Let’s approach Him with humble hearts, willing to be cleansed and made new. Through Jesus, we have the ultimate sacrifice that makes atonement for us all, offering us a chance to live in the fullness of God’s love and holiness daily.
In the end, Leviticus is not just a book of ancient laws; it’s a guide to living a life that’s in tune with God’s heart—a life that’s clean, pure, and full of His presence. Let’s embrace that life today.
February 22
Leviticus 17-19
Living Differently
As we journey through Leviticus 17, 18, and 19, we’re invited into a deeper understanding of how God instructs the Israelites—and, by extension, us—on living lives that are consecrated and distinct.
The Sacredness of Life and Worship
Leviticus 17 brings us face-to-face with the sacredness of blood, highlighting its role as the life force in God’s creation. The chapter demands centralizing worship in the Tabernacle and prohibits the consumption of blood, directives aimed not only at maintaining purity but also at setting the Israelites apart from neighboring peoples. This chapter also addresses idolatry, specifically the sacrifice to goat idols or demons—a clear “don’t do that” from God. In the New Testament (Hebrews 9:22), these themes point towards Christ’s ultimate sacrifice for our sins.
Maintaining Family Integrity and Community Sanctity
In Leviticus 18, God delineates boundaries around sexual morality. These laws were countercultural then, setting the Israelites apart from the practices of Egypt and Canaan, including incestuous relationships that were surprisingly common in other nations. The command, “Do not act like the people in Egypt…or like the people of Canaan,” serves as a stark warning, urging God’s people to uphold a different standard of holiness in their personal and community lives.
Holiness in Everyday Actions
Leviticus 19 extends the call to holiness to every aspect of life, echoing the Ten Commandments in greater detail. It begins with a powerful directive: “You must be holy because I, the Lord your God, am holy.” This chapter is a beautiful blend of ethical, ritual, and social laws, emphasizing justice, love for neighbors, and the importance of the Sabbath—all underpinned by the repeated affirmation, “I am the Lord.”
The Heart of the Matter
God’s message through these chapters is clear: to be set apart. He calls His people to live differently, not by the absence of rules or mimicking the ways of others but by following Him. The prohibitions and commandments are not arbitrary; they protect against defilement and ensure the community’s purity and well-being.
The detailed commandments in Leviticus, while specific to the Israelites’ context, speak volumes about God’s desire for His people to live in a manner that reflects His holiness. Like a parent guiding a toddler, God’s instructions are clear and repetitive, covering potential “loopholes” to ensure understanding and compliance.
Word of the Day: Careful
Cautious in one’s actions; taking pains in one’s work; solicitously mindful.
As we reflect on these chapters, the call to “be careful to keep all of my decrees and regulations” is as relevant today as it was then. It’s about living in a way that acknowledges God’s presence among us, prompting us to act differently—carefully, thoughtfully, and with a deep respect for the sacredness of life and the holiness of God. It’s a call to examine our lives, to find ways to live out these principles in today’s world, and to embrace the distinctiveness of living in a close relationship with a holy God.
February 23
Leviticus 20-22
The Weight of Our Choices
In today’s reading, we delve into the divine instructions given to Moses, focusing on the severe consequences of sin. A recurring theme that resonated deeply with me was the call to “be set apart.” God wanted His people to eliminate wickedness and embrace holiness to mirror His own purity.
Today’s reading started with the sin of child sacrifice to Molech, a deed punishable by stoning. Imagining oneself among the crowd witnessing such a punishment evokes a profound sense of the tragedy of sin and its consequences. This ancient justice system prescribed death for idolatry, blasphemy, murder, and adultery.
To cut off such evil was crucial. The Israelites stood on the brink of entering new lands, and God was laying the groundwork for their future. God’s warnings against evil practices are coupled with promises of a land “flowing with milk and honey.” Leviticus chapters 21 and 22 further detail the sanctity required of priests and the standards for offerings, highlighting the overarching theme of purity and dedication in service to the divine.
Word of the Day: Apart
To or at one side, with respect to place, purpose, or function; having independent or unique qualities, features, or characteristics.
The concept of being “set apart,” illustrated God’s desire for His people and priests to reflect His holiness. This principle of separation, however, extends beyond the ancient texts to resonate within our own lives.
The concept of holiness, emphasized in Exodus with the high priest’s turban inscribed with “Holiness to the Lord,” reminds us of God’s unchanging nature and the call for His people to be holy in their actions. The insistence on separation is not merely for distinction but for cultivating a community that mirrors God’s presence among them.
We walk away from today’s reading with this: consequences serve a purpose. They remind us of the impact of our actions, not just on ourselves but on those around us. Consequences also help us understand our sins better so we may seek holiness in our lives. These lessons remind us to consider the weight of our choices and to reflect the holiness of God in our lives.
