Your Sins Are Removed in the Book

 Your Sins Are Removed in the Book

By: JK Woodall

In 2 Samuel 11, we see one of the most well-known sins of King David—his affair with Bathsheba, the wife of Uriah, and the subsequent death of Uriah. David's actions were not just a lapse in judgment but a deliberate attempt to cover up his sin. When Bathsheba became pregnant, David tried to manipulate Uriah into returning home from the battlefield, hoping he would sleep with his wife and assume the child was his. When Uriah refused to go home, David sent him back to the frontlines with a letter ordering his death. Uriah, unknowingly carrying his own death sentence, was killed in battle (2 Samuel 11:14-17).

David’s sin was severe—adultery, deceit, and murder. Yet, God confronted David through the prophet Nathan, and David confessed his sin (2 Samuel 12:13). God forgave him, but there were consequences: the child born to Bathsheba would die (2 Samuel 12:14-18). Even in the midst of judgment, God's mercy was evident. He did not reject David, but instead, He cleansed him, and David was still called a man after God's own heart.

Now, compare this with the story in 1 Chronicles 21. Although this chapter does not specifically address David's sin with Bathsheba, it shows us another moment of David’s failure. David’s census of Israel was an act of pride and self-reliance, and it too brought judgment upon the nation. In 1 Chronicles 21:8, David confesses, "I have sinned greatly by doing this. Now I beg you, take away the guilt of your servant." Just as with Bathsheba, David acknowledged his sin, and God responded with mercy.

The key difference between the two situations is the way God deals with sin. In 2 Samuel, while God forgives David, there are consequences to his actions, especially regarding the death of the child. But in 1 Chronicles 21, we see a different kind of mercy. David's repentance brings about a direct removal of the sin, symbolized by God's acceptance of his sacrifice and the cessation of the plague (1 Chronicles 21:26-27). It’s a beautiful picture of God’s mercy: when we genuinely repent, He not only forgives us but removes the judgment.

I personally experienced a similar moment in my life. There was a time I made decisions I deeply regretted, and I felt the weight of guilt pressing on me. I, like David, confessed my sin to God, asking for His forgiveness. And just as in the scriptures, I found that God’s mercy was greater than the consequences I feared. He not only forgave me, but He removed my guilt, bringing peace to my heart. This is the heart of the gospel: that through repentance, God removes our sin, offering us a clean slate.

What is a Trespass? (Leviticus 5)

 

Bible Study Notes: Leviticus 5 – The Trespass Offering

By JK Woodall

What is a Trespass?

A trespass is an act of wrongdoing, violation, or offense against another, whether against God or man. It can be intentional or unintentional but still requires accountability and restitution. The Hebrew word for trespass (אָשָׁם, asham) refers to guilt, debt, or offense that demands atonement.

Leviticus 5 outlines the Trespass Offering, a required sacrifice for sins that involve deception, unintentional disobedience, or wrongful gain. This chapter highlights God’s justice—sin must be acknowledged and atoned for—and God’s mercy, providing a way for restoration.

It is important to note that in most English Bible translations, Leviticus 5 contains 19 verses, following the Greek Septuagint tradition. However, in the Hebrew Bible (Masoretic Text), Leviticus 5 extends to 26 verses, with additional details about restitution and atonement found in verses 20-26. While we will focus on the Greek-based translation with 19 verses, we will briefly examine the additional Hebrew text at the end of these notes.

---

Leviticus 5:1-19 (Greek Translation – 19 Verses)

1. The Responsibility to Speak Truth (Leviticus 5:1, KJV)

"And if a soul sin, and hear the voice of swearing, and is a witness, whether he hath seen or known of it; if he do not utter it, then he shall bear his iniquity."

Silence in the face of wrongdoing is itself a sin. If someone witnesses a crime or injustice but refuses to testify, they share in the guilt. God holds His people accountable not just for their actions but also for their inaction.

2. Defilement and Unintentional Sin (Leviticus 5:2-3, ESV)

"If anyone touches an unclean thing, whether the carcass of an unclean wild animal or a dead body of a person, and it is hidden from him, and he realizes his guilt... he shall be guilty."

Even unintentional contact with uncleanness required atonement. This emphasizes that sin, even when accidental, separates us from God and requires confession and cleansing.

3. Rash Oaths and Their Consequences (Leviticus 5:4, NIV)

"If anyone thoughtlessly takes an oath to do anything, whether good or evil—when they realize their guilt in any of these matters, they must confess their sin."

Words have power, and careless promises or vows can bring guilt. The principle here is that God's people must be careful with their speech and uphold their commitments.

4. The Required Atonement (Leviticus 5:5-6, NKJV)

"And it shall be, when he is guilty in any of these matters, that he shall confess that he has sinned in that thing; and he shall bring his trespass offering to the Lord."

Confession and sacrifice were required for atonement. This foreshadows Jesus Christ, the ultimate atonement for our sins (Hebrews 9:22).

5. Offerings Based on Economic Status (Leviticus 5:7-13, NASB)

"But if he cannot afford a sheep, then he shall bring to the Lord his guilt offering for that in which he has sinned, two turtledoves or two young pigeons."

God made provisions for the poor, allowing them to bring smaller offerings if they couldn’t afford a lamb. This shows God's grace and fairness in His laws.

6. Trespassing Against God’s Holy Things (Leviticus 5:14-16, CSB)

"If someone offends by sinning unintentionally in regard to any of the Lord’s holy things, he is to bring his restitution offering to the Lord: an unblemished ram from the flock."

This highlights the seriousness of offenses against God, even when done unintentionally. Restitution was required, with an additional penalty of 20%.

7. The Ram of Atonement (Leviticus 5:17-19, NLT)

"If you sin by violating one of the Lord’s commands, even if you are unaware of what you have done, you are guilty and will be punished for your sin. You must bring a ram without defect as a guilt offering."

This passage reiterates that ignorance does not excuse sin. It also points to Christ, the spotless Lamb, who became our final offering.

---

Leviticus 5:20-26 (Hebrew Bible Additional Verses)

The Hebrew Bible (Masoretic Text) includes Leviticus 5:20-26, which expands on the requirement for restitution.

• Leviticus 5:20-23 (JPS Tanakh 1917) emphasizes returning stolen property or dishonest gain.
• Leviticus 5:24-26 requires full repayment plus an additional 20% and a trespass offering.

This shows that God's justice includes both atonement before Him and restoration to the wronged party.

---

Personal Reflection Questions

1. Have you ever been in a situation where you remained silent when you should have spoken the truth? How did that affect your relationship with others and with God? (Leviticus 5:1)
2. How do you handle situations where you realize you have wronged someone? Do you seek to make restitution, as described in this passage? (Leviticus 5:14-16, 20-26)
3. What does this chapter teach you about the seriousness of sin and the importance of confession and atonement in your spiritual walk?

---

Prayer Points

1. Pray for a heart that is sensitive to sin, even unintentional sins, so that you may quickly seek God’s forgiveness and make things right.
2. Ask God to help you walk in honesty and integrity, ensuring that your actions reflect His righteousness.
3. Pray for strength and humility to seek restitution when needed, trusting in God's grace to restore relationships.

---

Closing Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Thank You for revealing to us the importance of confession, atonement, and restitution. We acknowledge that we sometimes fall short, whether knowingly or unknowingly. Please give us hearts that are quick to repent and a spirit that desires to make things right. Help us to walk in truth, integrity, and obedience to Your Word.

Lord, we thank You for Jesus, our ultimate trespass offering, who paid the price for our sins. May we never take His sacrifice for granted but live in a way that honors You. Teach us to seek forgiveness, extend grace to others, and reflect Your love in all we do.

In Jesus' name, we pray, Amen.

IF You are willing

 IF…

By JK Woodall

"Father, IF You are willing, take this cup from Me; yet not My will, but Yours be done." – Luke 22:42 (NIV)

A man covered in leprosy approached Jesus and pleaded, “Lord, IF You are willing, You can make me clean.” – Luke 5:12 (NKJV)

Two moments. Two “IFs”. One received immediate healing. The other received strength to endure.

Jesus, in Gethsemane, asked if the cup of suffering could pass. But the Father’s answer was not removal—it was strength. “Then an angel appeared to Him from heaven, strengthening Him.” – Luke 22:43 (NKJV)

The leper’s request was met with healing. Jesus' request was met with power to walk through the suffering, not around it.

Sometimes, we pray for the situation to change, but instead, God changes us. Paul prayed for his thorn to be removed, but God replied, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” – 2 Corinthians 12:9 (NKJV)

The cup wasn’t taken, but fear was. Strength removes fear. God’s will is not always to take it away—but to take YOU through.

IF you are willing, Lord… make me whole.
IF You are willing… strengthen me to endure.

💡 God is always willing—but His answer may be strength, not escape.

#StayStrong #FaithOverFear #StrengthToEndure

Save the Date: National Day of Prayer 2025

 

Weekly Devotional: March 2 – March 8, 2025 Theme: The Power of Kindness

 

Weekly Devotional: March 2 – March 8, 2025
Theme: The Power of Kindness
By JK Woodall

Kindness is a fruit of the Spirit that reflects the love of God in action. It is more than just being nice—it is a powerful expression of God’s character working through us. True kindness flows from a heart transformed by Christ, reaching beyond words into actions that uplift, encourage, and bring healing. This week, let us focus on demonstrating God’s kindness in our daily lives.

---

Scripture Focus

1. Ephesians 4:32 – “Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” (ESV)
• Kindness and forgiveness go hand in hand, reflecting Christ’s love for us.
2. Proverbs 11:17 – “A man who is kind benefits himself, but a cruel man hurts himself.” (ESV)
• When we extend kindness, we not only bless others but also receive blessings in return.
3. Colossians 3:12 – “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” (NIV)
• Kindness is a part of our spiritual identity in Christ.
4. Luke 6:35 – “But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.” (NIV)
• God calls us to extend kindness even to those who may not deserve it, just as He does.

---

Reflections on Kindness

1. Kindness Reflects Christ: When we show kindness, we display the heart of Jesus to the world. A kind word, a helping hand, or a simple act of love can be a witness of God’s presence.
2. Kindness Heals and Encourages: A gentle touch, a compassionate ear, or a word of encouragement can bring healing to a hurting heart.
3. Kindness is a Choice: It is easy to respond with frustration or impatience, but choosing kindness—even when it is difficult—brings glory to God.
4. Kindness Changes Lives: Small acts of kindness can have a lasting impact. You never know how one moment of kindness can inspire someone to draw closer to God.

---

Encouragement for the Week

As you go about your week, look for opportunities to show kindness in your home, workplace, church, and community. Even in moments of frustration, choose grace over anger. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you reflect the kindness of Christ in every interaction.

---

Prayer

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your unfailing kindness toward us. Help us to reflect Your love through our words and actions. Give us hearts that seek to uplift others, patience to show grace, and wisdom to extend kindness even in difficult situations. May our lives be a testimony of Your goodness, and may our kindness lead others to know You more. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

This week, be intentional about showing kindness, for through it, you reveal the love of God to the world! 💙

 

Open Me Up!

Open Me Up!
By JK Woodall, Ph.D. 

In Leviticus, the sacrifice was "opened up"—its innermost parts exposed—symbolizing the need for purification and complete surrender to God. The offering was laid bare, revealing what was inside, to show that nothing could be hidden from God's gaze. This sacrificial process demonstrated that to be in the presence of the Holy God, the sacrifice had to be fully exposed and cleansed. “He shall kill it on the side of the altar northward before the Lord, and the priests, Aaron’s sons, shall sprinkle its blood all around on the altar” (Leviticus 1:11, NKJV).

In the same way, Jesus was fully opened up for us on the cross. His body was broken, His soul was poured out, and His spirit was fully surrendered to the Father. In His vulnerability, Jesus took upon Himself our sins and exposed them to the light of God's judgment, offering us a path to redemption. “But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities; The chastisement for our peace was upon Him, And by His stripes we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5, NKJV). Because He was opened up for us, we are called to open ourselves to God, revealing our hearts and minds for His correction. “Search me, O God, and know my heart; Try me, and know my anxieties; And see if there is any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting” (Psalm 139:23-24, NKJV).

When we allow God to open us up, we are offering ourselves as living sacrifices, laid bare before Him. This exposure is not for condemnation, but for healing and transformation. “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service” (Romans 12:1, NKJV).

As we surrender and allow God to work, we align ourselves with His purpose, trusting that His correction leads to life. “For whom the Lord loves He corrects, Just as a father the son in whom he delights” (Proverbs 3:12, NKJV). "Open me up," we cry, for in this vulnerability, God can make us whole.

Personal Reflection:
As I reflect on this message, I am reminded of the times when I’ve tried to keep parts of my life hidden from God, thinking I could handle them on my own. But when I finally surrendered those areas, allowing God to open me up, I experienced His healing in ways I never expected. Just like the sacrifice in Leviticus, those hidden places in my heart needed to be exposed for God's purification, and it was only through that exposure that I truly experienced freedom and transformation. It’s not easy to be vulnerable, but I’ve learned that it’s in that vulnerability with God that true restoration happens. "Open me up," I pray, and I trust that God’s correction and love will make me whole.

— By JK Woodall

Welcome to March 2025: A Pattern of Perfection

 

Welcome to March 2025: A Pattern of Perfection

As we step into the month of March, we are reminded of the divine significance of the number three—a pattern of perfection and completion woven throughout Scripture.

From the earliest pages of the Bible, God has used threefold patterns to reveal His perfect plan. Noah’s three sons—Shem, Ham, and Japheth—became the foundation for the nations of the earth (Genesis 6:10), showing us that God’s promises extend across generations. The three patriarchs—Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob—carried the covenant forward, proving that God’s faithfulness never fails. Even in the Ark of the Covenant, three sacred items—the golden pot of manna, Aaron’s rod, and the tablets of the Law—symbolized God’s provision, authority, and guidance (Hebrews 9:4).

This month, let us reflect on how God is working in completeness in our own lives. Are there areas where He is perfecting your faith? Is He leading you through three stages of growth, transformation, or breakthrough?

As we march forward into March, let’s embrace the pattern of perfection that God has set before us, knowing that He who began a good work in us will bring it to completion (Philippians 1:6).

Blessings,
JK Woodall