Ever take a stroll through the Old Testament book of Leviticus? If you have, you know it’s full of intricate laws and regulations—so many, in fact, that it’s easy to skim over. I know I have. Living in a post-Jesus world, I haven’t spent much time there. But with my goal of reading through the entire Bible in 2025, I recently found myself back in Leviticus. And this time, it hit differently.
Two things leapt off the pages for me. First, God is deeply thoughtful, careful, and intentional about every aspect of life. And second—wow—am I grateful for Jesus!
When I look at the incredible detail God lays out in the design of the tent of meeting, it’s clear He approaches it with an artist’s eye. Even the food laws, the sanitation laws, and the specificity of what to do when show a meticulous understanding of who we are as humans and how we are wired.
We have the advantage of time now. We know that certain foods back then were unhealthy and could even be deadly. Before the days of doctors, the health and purification laws gave people the best chance of not just surviving but thriving. Science now supports that even the way God instructed the Israelites to harvest their crops led to bounty and blessing.
The Bible tells us, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). That same passionate desire to help me craft a thriving life? It hasn’t changed. And that’s amazing!
It’s a refreshing reminder that God meticulously crafted me in my mother’s womb, knowing both my strengths and weaknesses, to give me the best chance of not only finding Him but learning to rely on Him. In doing so, I can experience the fullness of life both now and for eternity.
Consider these scriptures:
“Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground outside your Father’s care. And even the very hairs on your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows.” (Matthew 10:29-31)
“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made.” (Psalm 139:13-14a)
“That’s why we can be so sure that every detail in our lives of love for God is worked into something good.” (Romans 8:28)
“He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.” (Psalm 91:4)
When anxiety comes knocking, Jesus is right there. When I find myself in a broken or abusive relationship, I hear His whisper calling me to something better. When I feel lost, swallowed up by defeat, He shelters me under His wing, reminding me that victory is already mine in Him.
These truths are incredible gifts from Jesus, but as Leviticus makes clear, they came at a great cost. Under the old covenant, sin required a sacrifice—something dear and costly—to restore a person’s standing before a holy God. Lie or distort the truth? Sacrifice. Disrespect parents? Sacrifice. Even an unintentional misstep? Another sacrifice. Every law reinforced the reality that sin is costly—it hurts us, those around us, and most of all, it grieves God.
That’s why I feel so deeply grateful for Jesus.
Jesus was the costliest sacrifice ever laid on the altar. As Paul reminds us in Hebrews 9:22, “Under the law almost everything is purified with blood, and without the shedding of blood there is no forgiveness of sins.”
Paul continues in Hebrews 10:11-14, “Under the old agreement the priests stood before the altar day after day offering sacrifices that could never take away our sins. But Christ gave himself to God for our sins as one sacrifice for all time … for by that one offering he made forever perfect in the sight of God all those whom he is making holy.”
That includes me. And you. No matter where we’ve been, what we’ve done, or how lost, worthless, or anxious we feel, nothing can separate us from God’s meticulous, loving kindness once we make Him the Lord of our lives.
I am intimately aware of how far I fall short of God’s glory. Yet, in Jesus, I get to experience freedom, complete forgiveness, healing, and transformation. It takes time to fully grasp the incredible gift of Jesus. But every step in His direction, every reminder of His detailed and thoughtful love, draws me closer to the life He has in store for me.
As Paul encourages us, “Let us draw near to God with a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled [by Jesus’ blood] to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water” (Hebrews 10:22).
Jesus paid the cost so I could be free. And that changes everything.
FOR FURTHER THOUGHT: Living in the Light of Meticulous Love
Understanding God’s meticulous love should transform how we approach daily life. Here are a few ways to apply this truth:
Trust His Intentionality – When life feels chaotic, remember that God is as intentional with your life as He was with the laws in Leviticus. Start each day with a prayer of surrender, acknowledging His wisdom and seeking His guidance in your decisions.
Rest in His Care – If God numbers the hairs on your head, then He certainly sees your struggles. When anxiety creeps in, replace worry with worship. Meditate on scriptures like Matthew 10:29-31 and Psalm 91:4, reminding yourself of His protection and faithfulness.
Live in Gratitude for Grace – Jesus’ sacrifice means you are free from the weight of sin. Let that truth shape how you extend grace to yourself and others. When you fall short, instead of dwelling in guilt, turn to Jesus and receive His mercy anew.
By recognizing and responding to God’s meticulous love, we can live with greater peace, purpose, and confidence in His perfect plan.
PRAYER: Lord, thank you for loving me so meticulously, for seeing every detail of my life and caring for me with such intention. When I lose my way or get lost in broken thinking, guide me back to the shelter of your wing. Thank you for your incredible sacrifice on the cross so I could be set free. Today, help me to truts in You so I can walk confidently in that freedom. In Jesus' name, Amen.
ABOUT BARB LOWNSBURY
Barb is a speaker, author, and entrepreneur. She holds Bachelor's Degrees in International History and Education, as well as a Master’s Degree in Education. Barb has spoken at conferences and taught classes throughout the U.S. on topics including faith, relationships, leadership, and courage through trials. Her book, Using What’s Broken to Boldly Shine, is a powerful read on transformation through adversity. Her blog focuses on providing people with everyday encouragement and strength. Barb serves as the Executive Director for The Dented Fender Ministry and runs a successful real estate and development company. She and her husband currently reside in Dayton, Ohio.
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