In Leviticus 10, we read of an interesting story that takes place involving the sons of Aaron, whose names were Nadab and Abihu. As sons of Aaron, they were involved in the priesthood and the burning of incense in the Lord's sanctuary. God had specifically outlined His requirements for the way that they were to conduct the service. The Bible says that they offered up 'strange' or unauthorized fire before the Lord. In other words, they got sloppy in their worship. God judged them for it, and we read that fire came from the Lord's presence and consumed them.
What is the lesson that we come away with regarding this passage? You and I need to understand that our God is holy, and we are not to approach Him just any old way that we please. That's not to say that He will consume us, for I'm thankful that Christ has fulfilled all of those meticulous Old Testament demands. But if we aren't careful, we can lose sight of the holiness of the Lord and allow for pride to take root in our hearts. God has clearly stated how He desires for us to worship Him. The psalmist wrote that we are to worship Him in the beauty of holiness. Paul wrote in Romans 12:1-2 that we are to not be conformed to this world, but instead should present our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to God, which is our reasonable service. I have a feeling that 'strange' fire gets offered up to the Lord every Sunday as many professing Christians simply go through the motions of worship. They may honor Christ with their lips, but in reality, their heart is far from Him.
Let's always be mindful of the holiness of God, rather than offering up 'strange' fire.
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