Greetings,
A Reminder to Stay Faithful
"You will have these tassels to look at and so you will remember all the commands of the Lord, that you may obey them and not prostitute yourselves by chasing after the lusts of your own hearts and eyes." — Numbers 15:39
Unpacking the Message of Verse Numbers 15:39
Numbers 15:39 speaks to the importance of remembrance, obedience, and the battle between the desires of the flesh and the commands of God. The verse refers to tassels, or tzitzit, which the Israelites were instructed to wear on the corners of their garments. These tassels served as a constant, visible reminder of God’s laws and His covenant with His people. Every time they saw them, they were to remember their identity as God’s chosen people and the responsibilities that came with it.
The instruction about tassels highlights the importance of having physical reminders of spiritual truths. Human nature is prone to forgetfulness, especially when distractions and temptations arise. God, in His wisdom, provided a way to help His people keep His commandments at the forefront of their minds. This principle still applies today. Though Christians may not wear tassels, they can use other forms of reminders—daily Scripture reading, prayer, fellowship, or symbols like crosses—to keep their focus on God’s will.
The verse also warns against the dangers of following one’s own heart and eyes. In modern culture, people are often told to “follow your heart” or “trust your instincts,” but the Bible warns that the heart can be deceitful (Jeremiah 17:9). The lusts of the heart and eyes represent desires that are driven by the flesh rather than by God’s Spirit. These desires can be subtle, leading people away from God one compromise at a time. The verse uses strong language, equating the pursuit of worldly desires with spiritual prostitution—showing how seriously God views disobedience and unfaithfulness.
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Obedience is not just about avoiding sin; it is about living in harmony with God’s will. The tassels were not meant to be a burden but a help—a way to keep God’s commandments close and personal. Jesus later emphasized a similar idea in John 14:15 when He said, “If you love me, keep my commands.” True love for God is expressed through obedience, not just words or feelings.
This verse also reminds believers that they are set apart. Israel was called to be a holy nation, distinct from the surrounding cultures. Today, Christians are also called to be in the world but not of it (John 17:16). The temptations and influences of the world are strong, but those who are devoted to God must be intentional about remembering His ways and resisting the pull of sin.
The idea of looking at something and remembering is deeply significant in Scripture. The Passover meal, the rainbow after the flood, and the Lord’s Supper are all examples of tangible symbols God has given to help His people remember His faithfulness and their covenant with Him. This principle applies today—keeping spiritual reminders in daily life can strengthen one’s faith and help in times of temptation.
Another powerful aspect of this verse is the contrast between God’s commands and the desires of the heart and eyes. Following God’s way leads to life, purpose, and fulfillment, while chasing after selfish desires leads to spiritual emptiness. Many people think they will find happiness by indulging in their desires, but true joy comes from walking in God’s ways.
Numbers 15:39 calls for an active choice. God provides guidance, but individuals must choose to remember, obey, and resist temptation. This verse encourages self-examination—what influences and desires are shaping daily decisions? Are they aligned with God’s truth, or are they pulling the heart in another direction?
Ultimately, this verse is about devotion. God desires a people who will be faithful to Him, who will keep His words close, and who will not be easily swayed by fleeting desires. The tassels were a physical representation of a deeper spiritual truth: staying focused on God requires effort, intentionality, and a heart that longs to please Him.
Closing thoughts as I pray for those reading or hearing this verse today...
God knows how easily we can be distracted by the desires of our hearts and the temptations of the world.
That’s why He calls us to set reminders—just as He commanded the Israelites with tassels—to keep our focus on Him and His ways.
What reminders do you have in your life to keep your heart aligned with God?
Whether it’s time in prayer, reading His Word, or surrounding yourself with godly influences, staying rooted in Him will keep you from being led astray.
Fix your eyes on Jesus today, and walk in obedience to His truth!
Blessings 🙏🏻
Be Relentless In Pursuit Of The Will
Which God Has Set Upon Your Life,
❤️ Anthony and Anna Speciale
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