Leviticus 22:1-9 – Seasons of abstention

In Leviticus 21, we first saw what God expected of the ordinary priests regarding mourning rites and marriage. They could only attend the funerals of their close relatives. Regarding marriage, they must not marry a prostitute or divorced woman. Then we saw what God expected of the high priest concerning his mourning and marriage. He was not allowed even to attend the funeral of his own father or mother. And when it comes to marriage, he was only allowed to marry a virgin. Then the later part of Leviticus 21 barred people with physical impediments from serving in the office of a priest. God is holy, hence only the best should be offered to Him.

In Leviticus 22:1-9, we see another aspect God said they must observe. They were warned against eating food reserved for the office of the priesthood when they had become unclean. Whether they were serving or not, when they became unclean because of skin disease, having discharge or had come into contact with a dead body, they were warned against eating food reserved for the priesthood. The food reserved for the priesthood were considered consecrated and hence to partake of them in an unclean condition would tantamount to showing disrespect for God. Priests must never do anything that would defile the name of God and profane Him. People with those conditions were temporarily barred from eating holy food. 

These verses speak of seasons of abstention. We must be sure that we are in a state to offer worship that is holy and acceptable to God. There may come times in our walk and service to God where we are called to abstain ourselves and come apart for a while. We must meditate on God’s Word, then adopt the values God reveals. It will help us to be renewed in our minds and spirit. In our waiting, be sure to submit with patience. At all times, we must maintain full confidence and trust in Him.