The law of the Nazirite, a vow of separation to the Lord.
Some time ago I spoke on the Nazirite vow, Numbers 6 and one young man was particularly touched by the message. I was explaining that God was calling some people to a closer walk with him and although something might be all right for their friends it may not be what God wanted for them.
The vow was voluntary, between a person and God and usually for a set time, (like a period of fasting) though Samson was a Nazirite from birth. Throughout the duration of the vow the person was not allowed to drink wine or eat of the grape, cut the hair on their head(no razor allowed) nor go near a dead body. The person was to be set apart to God for a period of time, basically the same idea as being holy, set apart.
The book of Amos starts with a series of God’s judgements on different peoples. When He comes to Israel, He says they are guilty of two things;
Amos 2:11,12
“I also raised up prophets from among your children
and Nazirites from among your youths.
Is this not true people of Israel?” declares the Lord.
But you made the Nazirites drink wine(break their vow)
and commanded the prophets not to prophesy.
Prophets and Nazirites are linked together and God judges Israel for for attacking both groups. It seems that wickedness has a real problem with these two groups who are serving God, they want them to stop. Prophets would be known because of their speaking out revelation and Nazirites because of their hair and refusal to be take alcohol or be near dead bodies. Would we be so readily recognised today as people of God? There may be a price to pay, as not everyone will be comfortable being around people who are committed to God, not even respectable, religious people.
It is interesting that in Numbers 6, the 21 verses on the law of the Nazirite is followed by the priestly blessing;
The Lord said to Moses , tell Aaron and his sons, “This is how you are to bless the Israelites. Say to them:
“The Lord bless you and keep you;
the Lord make His face shine upon you
and be gracious to you;
the Lord turn His face towards you
and give you peace”.
“So they will put my name on the Israelites and I will bless them”.
Is God calling you and I to draw nearer to Him today for something He has for us?
May the words of the blessing be yours today.