The Candid Christian

As The Candid Christian Community and I continue our Bible reading journey, we’ve been following the Open Heavens devotional by Pastor E.A. Adeboye. One thing I appreciate about this plan is how it gently but firmly leads us through Scripture — not just to read, but to understand and apply God’s Word.

Yesterday, we began reading the book of Leviticus, and sitting with chapters 5–7 today has caused me to pause, reflect, and examine my heart more deeply.

I’ve shared reflections before from Genesis and Exodus, and going forward, I’ll be sharing my learnings as we journey through Scripture — not from a place of expertise, but from a place of obedience, growth, and daily dependence on God.

Here are a few lessons that stood out to me from Leviticus 5–7.

1. The Holiness of God Has Not Changed

One truth Leviticus makes unmistakably clear is the holiness of God.

The sins addressed in these chapters — unintentional sin, guilt, carelessness, and disregard for God’s instructions — are not limited to the Old Testament. When we read the New Testament, we see these same issues addressed again, reminding us that God’s standard has never shifted.

God has not changed.

What He detested then, He still detests now — not because He is harsh, but because sin disrupts fellowship and separates us from the intimacy He desires with His people.

Leviticus helps us understand that holiness is not legalism; it is love expressed through obedience.

2. God’s Deep Desire for Fellowship

At first glance, the sacrifices and detailed instructions in Leviticus can feel overwhelming. But beneath every command is a loving truth: God wants to dwell with His people.

The sacrificial system was not about creating distance — it was about restoring access.

Because God is holy, sin could not be ignored. Yet because He is loving and merciful, He provided a way for atonement and restoration. Every offering pointed toward God’s desire to remain in relationship with humanity.

Through Christ, we now see the ultimate fulfillment of this — but Leviticus helps us appreciate the weight, cost, and intentionality of fellowship with a holy God.

3. The Fire on the Altar Must Be Kept Burning (Leviticus 6:12)

One verse that stayed with me deeply is Leviticus 6:12:

“The fire on the altar must be kept burning; it must not go out.”

This instruction required daily attention. The fire did not sustain itself — it had to be tended consistently.

For me, this is a powerful reminder that our spiritual lives also require intentional upkeep.

Our devotion to God cannot be occasional. Our walk with Him cannot be passive. Our pursuit of holiness must be deliberate.

The fire represents ongoing worship, prayer, obedience, and reverence. It challenges us to remain spiritually alert, guarding against complacency and neglect.

Walking This Journey Together

Reading through the Bible using the Open Heavens devotional by Pastor E.A. Adeboye has helped anchor our study, providing structure while still allowing space for personal reflection and conviction.

Leviticus may not be the easiest book to read, but it is deeply transformative when approached with humility. It reminds us that God is holy, faithful, and deeply committed to fellowship with His people.

As we continue this journey, I’ll keep sharing my learnings — trusting that God speaks powerfully when we slow down and listen.

If you’re reading along, I’d love to know:

What has God been highlighting to you in this season of studying His Word?