Every Word

Tuesday February 10, 2026

Every Word is needful and useful.  I’m sure you have heard Paul’s instructions to Timothy quoted, saying, “All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness” (2 Timothy 3:16).  How about the repeated parts?  I’ll be honest, the temptation can be there to try and “streamline” the reading.  For example, this morning in our daily reading we came to Numbers 7, and I honestly anticipated the contents of this chapter.  A leader from each of the twelve tribes were to present a dedication gift for the altar when it was anointed.  God told Moses that each day, one leader was to present his offering for the dedication of the altar (Numbers 7:11).  Having read this chapter before, I knew that each leader presented the same exact sacrifices, but the content of each sacrifice, exactly the same, would be repeated twelve times, and the only difference in the text is obviously who is presenting and from which tribe.  And then at the end, the number of sacrifices are summarized and listed again.  There is a temptation, isn’t there, to say, “Well after reading the contents of the sacrifices once, I know the content, so let me just read who and from what tribe”.   Let me encourage you to read even the repetitious parts.  After reading it, try and give some thought as to why God would have the writer of this book to be so meticulous that instead of summarizing, he writes the same exact thing over and over.  Here are some thoughts to consider:  (1) every sacrifice that was presented was necessary and important, (2) every person and tribe represented was special and important, (3) the requirements for sacrifice were the same, no partiality, and no tribe tried to “one up” the other.  The repetition symbolizes unity, oneness, in the Lord.  Lastly, one last thought entered my mind as I thought about why it is so important to read these repeated verses.  We live in such a fast-paced society that we are taught to streamline as much as possible so that we can “accomplish” more.  Reading these verses reminded me that we need to slow down and consider.  Every Word from God is purposeful and important.  Our work for the Lord is not always mountain-top experiences, full of what we might see as exciting miraculous works and wonders.  There is much to be said about consistency, steadiness, faithfulness, and perseverance.  Enjoy the Lord today and, remember, your sacrifice, worship, and service to Him may not be new today or different, but it matters to Him.  Pray, be encouraged, and be faithful.