July 31 -- "There is None Other"

 Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 32:30-52

"There is None Other"

In the first nineteen verses of this chapter, Moses is speaking as he recites his song for the people.  He refers to God as “He,” “Him,” and “His.”  But then - in verse twenty – Moses turns the “microphone” over to God and begins to record what the LORD has to say.  From this verse on, the personal pronouns “I,” “Me,” and “My” are used to indicate that God is speaking directly to the people.

He speaks very soberly about those who had forsaken Him and followed after other so-called “gods” (who are not really gods at all).  They turned away from the true and living God and turned to “gods” they did not know.  He charges them with forgetting “the God who fathered you.”  He then goes on to elaborate on the consequences they will face for forsaking Him and turning after these fake “gods.”  I will hide My face from you.  I will provoke you to jealousy. I will heap disasters on you. I will judge you. 

The LORD is grieving deeply. He laments their departure with very sad words. He is so longing for them to be wise and understand.  They need to consider their “latter end.”  It breaks His heart that they would so soon turn away from the One who fathered them and protected them and showed them His glory and power.  You can almost hear God’s voice cracking as He weeps over His unfaithful people.

He brings His words to a resounding climax in verse 39, where He declares, “Now see that I, even I, am He, and there is no god besides me.”  There’s not much else one can say after that statement. The LORD, YHWH, Jehovah is the ONLY ONE who is Omniscient, Omnipresent, and Omnipotent.  He alone is Infinite, Immutable, and Self-Sustaining.  He is a Being so superior to any other being that nothing or no one greater than Him exists or ever could exist.  He, alone is Light.  He, alone is Love. He alone is our Protector, Provider, and Guide. He is the only One who has offered salvation to those who trust in Him.  And He alone offers His love and grace to us if we will but forsake our false gods and follow Him alone.

July 30 -- "He is the Rock"

 Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 32:1-29

"He is the Rock"

Moses is now an old man.  He has lived a long, very hard life.  And he has learned a lot about the LORD, his God during his lifetime.  As he nears his last few hours on earth, he sits down to write a song.  A song about this God he has met and followed. He gathers the people together and recites the words of this song to them.  Today, we call it “The Song of Moses.”

The lyrics of this song paint an amazing picture of who God is, what He has taught the people, and how the people of God should move forward without Moses.  He reminds them of the character of God and the corruption of humanity – exhorting them to remember the great power and kindness of God.  Being aware of the people’s tendency to rebel against God, Moses left with them with this song that he wanted everyone to take to heart. The song reminded the people of God’s loving care for them and of the need for faithfulness on their part towards Him.

It is important to note that Moses refers to God as “The Rock” at least five times in this song. Not just “a” rock, but “THE” Rock.  By one count, the LORD is called “The Rock” some 59 times in the Bible, with Psalm 18:2 being perhaps the most well-known verse, “The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, My God, my rock, in whom I take refuge; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.”

The metaphor of The Rock points to God being strong, solid, steadfast, and consistent, not easily moved or shaken and a refuge for those in need.  To the Israelites, a rock spoke to them as a place of safety and security.  A place to hide from danger.  A rock can provide security, a "fortress" and place of "protection.”  They were well aware that the best place to hide from their enemies was in and amongst the solid protection of a rock.  The expression evokes vivid imagery and a sense of security. God is a trustworthy, rock-solid Savior.  Moses tells them that this same Rock who has brought you this far, will continue to be your Rock as you move forward.  Hide in Him.  Seek safety in His strength. 

Later on, Jesus would build on this imagery and teach that those who listened to His teachings and applied them to their lives were like those who build their house on a rock – a solid foundation.  There are dangers and hazards all around.  Don’t build your life exposed to these hazards.  Build your life on the strong, solid, steadfast, and consistent Rock of your salvation.  This same Rock who has brought you this far, will continue to be your Rock as you move forward in Him.

July 29 -- "The Lord Our Trailblazer"

 Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 31

"The Lord Our Trailblazer"

Knowing he had only a few more days to live, Moses hands over the leadership of Israel to his divinely appointed successor, Joshua. He reminds both Joshua and the people that fearless commitment to the task ahead, combined with total trust in God, would guarantee victory and possession of the Promised Land.

It is important to note that Moses represents the Law.  As the one who is representing the law he could only bring them to the edge of the Promised Land. He could not take them in. It is the same for you and me.   Neither laws, nor rules, nor religion can take you and I into the full blessings of God. Grace must do that. The law could only bring them to the border of the land. Now it's up to Joshua to take them in. And so, it's typical of our lives: the law cannot bring you into that glorious rich life in the Spirit. At best, it can only bring you to the edge of it, but by grace and faith we must enter in.

The glorious news is that the LORD is our Divine Trailblazer - the LORD is going to go before you. The dictionary defines “trailblazer” as someone who leads the way for others to follow through unsettled country or wilderness; a pathfinder.  A trailblazer recognizes the safest and most efficient path to take to get to the destination.  He looks out for hazards and potential “dead ends.”  He keeps his followers from danger and getting lost.  In the same way, our God knows the route we must take into the full blessings of the Christian life. If we will but follow His lead, He will go before us.  It is His job to direct our path.  It is His job to drive out our enemies.  It is His job to bring us to the fullness of joy.

Moses goes on to remind the people that their Trailblazer will never leave them or forsake them.  Unlike some human leaders who may abandon their post at the earliest sign of trouble, your Mighty God will never leave you nor forsake you.  He is with you all the way.  God will never leave those who are His.  In a world that is constantly changing and where people are constantly leaving, whether in a family, relationship, or in death, God’s promise of never leaving is so encouraging.  The task ahead of taking the Promised Land may seem impossible, but with the LORD, nothing is impossible.

It is tempting to become fearful and dismayed when we are faced with a big challenge.  But, when we acknowledge our Great Trailblazer, the fear will melt away.  Because He is with us and will never leave us.  So, trudge on great soldier!  Take the land!

July 28 -- "The Secret Things of God"

 Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 29 & 30

"The Secret Things of God"

God is unlike anything or anyone we could ever know or imagine. He is one of a kind, unique and without comparison. Even describing Him with mere words truly falls short of capturing who He is – our words simply cannot do justice to describe an indescribable Being.  While it is impossible for us to fully comprehend all there is to know about God, we are told here that God has revealed certain “secrets” to humankind.

Think about it. If God did not reveal Himself to us, we would really know very little about Him.  Sure, we would know He exists because of the wonders of His creation.  We would know of His power by what He has done in our universe.  But we wouldn’t know anything about His character, personality, or attributes unless He reveals those secrets to us.  And, worst of all, we would have no idea about what He requires of us.

What do you call a secret that's been revealed? News. And what do you call a secret about God that has been revealed? Good News!

The Good News is, He has revealed secret things to us and they “belong to us and our children forever.”  God certainly has not revealed everything about Himself to us, but He has revealed enough for us to make sense of Him, to know what He is like, and to discover what we must do to live in a way that is pleasing to Him. “For His divine power has bestowed upon us all things that required for life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him Who called us by and to His own glory and excellence.”  (2 Peter 1:3)

There are many secrets that still belong to the Lord our God, and one day we will discover more of those secrets.  But for now, we have all we need to “do all the words of this law” and to live lives of power and grace and that are ultimately pleasing to Him.  Take a moment to reflect on all that God has revealed about who He is and what He requires of you.  Then take those “secrets” and begin to live them to the fullest in all faith and godliness. 

July 27 -- "Bewildered Nations"

 Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 28:36-68

"Bewildered Nations"

We have just learned that any nation which devotes itself to honoring and fearing the God of the Bible will be blessed with prosperity and success. In contrast to the enormous blessings for obedience which Moses laid out in the first half of this chapter, now he turns to the consequences for disobedience.  Obedience, he told them, would culminate in blessings.  Disobedience will conclude with consequences and cursings.

Obey and be blessed in your cities - disobey and you will be cursed in your cities.  Obey and your children will be blessed - disobey and the fruit of your body will be cursed.  Obey and your crops and herds will be plentiful – disobey and your crops and herds will diminish.  Obey and your enemies will be defeated – disobey and you will be defeated. 

Moses explains in verse 37, that one of the consequences of their obedience will be reflected in their reputation and respect among the other nations of the world.  In verse 10, Moses tells them that their obedience will result in “all the peoples of the earth shall see that you are called by the name of the LORD, and they shall be afraid of you.”  Today, we might refer to this as “peace through strength.”  The other nations would be foolish and reckless to attack a nation with the visible strength of God shining upon them. In reality, this is “peace through obedience.”  No nation would dare come against the hand of God.

On the other hand, one of the consequences of their disobedience will be reflected in their disgrace and disrespect among the other nations of the world. The people around them will look and see a nation in disorder and weakness.  Moses tells them they will become “an object of horror, ridicule, and mockery” among those nations.  The word “horror” could be translated “astonishment” or “bewilderment.”  The people of the earth will be bewildered by Israel’s folly.  They will look and shake their head at the senseless failure of a nation which had – at one time – been the most blessed people of the world.  They will ridicule.  They will mock.  They will shake their head and say, “Fools!  You had everything and you let it slip out of your hands.”

Any nation which devotes itself to honoring and fearing the God of the Bible will be blessed with prosperity and success.  But if that nation ever turns its back on the LORD and begins down a path of disobedience and rebellion to God’s ways, it will become an object of astonishment, ridicule, and mockery among the other nations of the world.  If our nation completes its downward slide away from God’s commands, we too will be mocked and it will be said of us, “Fools!  You had everything and you let it slip out of your hands.”  I pray it is not so. And I exhort you to pray the same.

July 26 -- "Stay on the Path"

 Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 28:1-35

"Stay on the Path"

There is a connection between obedience and blessing.  As Moses nears the end of his life and ministry, he emphasizes this connection as he talks with the people of Israel regarding their future. Their obedience to God is the key to everything in their future.  Obey and be blessed.  Disobey and be cursed. 

They have a straight path in front of them – the path of obedience.  They must stay on that path.  They must not turn to the right or to the left.  It is imperative that they see the connection between obedience and blessing.  Obedience to God brings blessings – disobedience brings consequences.  All these blessings will come upon you IF you obey the Lord your God. The Lord will open His good treasure to you.

As followers of Christ, we too must learn that the “good treasure” of God’s blessings are available to us. God’s greatest blessings come as a result of your willingness to do what He has asked.  God’s love is guaranteed and unconditional and your salvation is sure, as it is based upon your faith, not your good works. But His blessings require cooperation on your part. The good treasure of His blessings are there and available to you!  But to receive God’s rich blessings, you must be obedient to His will.

The world, the flesh, and the devil are constantly trying to get you to turn “to the right or the left.”  To depart from the sure path of God’s will.  But watch out, sin always has consequences. Disobedience will take you farther than you want to go, keep you longer than you want to stay, and cost you more than you want to pay. 

The good news is that God’s Spirit is always with you to guide you and keep you on the path of obedience.  He is there to protect you from turning aside.  As Isaiah the prophet said, “Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.’” (Isaiah 30:21)  Make sure you listen to that voice behind you.  Stay on the path of obedience.  And all of God’s blessings will come upon you and overtake you, because you obeyed the voice of the LORD your God!

July 25 -- "On This Day: Silence"

 Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 27

"On This Day: Silence"

This day is a special day in the history of Israel.  Today is a day of preparation.  They are on the edge of the Promised land and “the game is on.”  Soon, they will close the chapter on their wilderness wanderings and begin a new chapter in their history.  Soon, the desert wilderness will be behind them.  Soon, they will cross over the Jordan River.  Soon, they will begin to take possession of the land God had promised them.  Are they ready?

It is time to prepare the people to “get in the game.”  Moses and the leaders of Israel gather the people together for a pre-game strategy session and pep talk.  They remind them of the many responsibilities they will have as they enter the Promised Land.  This day the Lord commands you to keep His statues and rules.  Today, you must walk in His ways and obey His voice.  Remember you are a people for His treasured possession, so you must keep all His commandments.  You shall be a people holy to the LORD your God.  When God gives you the victory, you must remember Him and make offerings and tithes to Him.  You must erect altars and stones of remembrance in His honor.  Oh, what a day!

Of utmost importance on this day is the LORD’s instruction here in Chapter 27, that they “keep silence and hear.”  This is a solemn moment.  This moment demands their silence.  It is a time to be quiet and listen to the voice of the LORD their God.  Solemn moments require silent reflection.  Yes, it’s time to rejoice in their upcoming victories, but first on this day: SILENCE.

But why silence?  Simply put, you can’t obey God if you are not silent to listen to Him.  The people of God need to quiet all other voices and listen only to God. One of Scripture’s most beautiful paradoxes is that blocking out the world around us can cause us to hear clearly from the Spirit of God. We honor God when we are are in awe of him and simply sit before Him in silence. It is here that our souls are refreshed and we receive new power for moving forward.  It is here that we are reminded that we belong to Him and that He is on our side.  It is here that our anxiety about moving into the next chapter turns into His calming peace.

In preparation for the “big game,” the one thing the people needed most was to “Keep silence and hear.”  Are you moving into new territory in your walk with the Lord?  If so, I exhort you to “keep silence and hear” before you even think of moving forward.

July 24 -- "Rejoicing in God's Goodness"

 Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 26

"Rejoicing in God's Goodness"

We are exhorted over 200 times in the Bible to REJOICE. The word “rejoice” means to experience joy and gladness in a high degree; to be exhilarated; to express great joy or delight; to jump up and down spinning around in circles with great delight.  

When God calls upon us to rejoice, does that mean we are supposed to go around with a smile on our face all the time?  Are we supposed to deny our pain or sorrow or struggles?  Are we supposed to be a bubbly optimist at all times by “putting on a happy face” and acting like nothing is wrong?  No.  God doesn’t want us to pretend to be rejoicing.  He wants us to experience genuine joy and delight.  When God calls upon us to rejoice, He gives us a reason to do so. Here are just some of the reasons we should rejoice. 

·       Rejoice in hope (Romans 12:12)

·       Rejoice that your names are written in heaven (Luke 10:20)

·       Rejoice at God’s word (Psalm 119:62)

·       Rejoice in the wife of your youth (Proverbs 5:18)

·       Rejoice in the goodness of God (2 Chronicles 6:14)

·       Rejoice that the LORD reigns (1 Chronicles 16:31)

·       Rejoice that we have received reconciliation (Romans 5:11)

·       Rejoice and be glad in God’s steadfast love (Psalm 31:7)

·       Sing and rejoice that God dwells in our midst (Zechariah 2:10)

·       Rejoice and be glad when persecution comes, for your reward is great in heaven (Matthew 5:12)

·       Rejoice in hope of the glory of God (Romans 5:2)

·       Rejoice in all the good that the Lord your God has given to you (Deuteronomy 26:11)

·       Rejoice that one day we shall have everlasting joy. (Isaiah 61:7)

·       Rejoice in the Lord, taking joy in the God of my salvation (Habakkuk 3:18)

The good news is that when God calls us to rejoice, He gives us the power to do so.  It is God’s Spirit within us that brings forth joy and rejoicing.  Joy is the fruit of the Spirit.  

In Nehemiah 12:43 we read, “And they offered great sacrifices that day and rejoiced, for God had made them rejoice with great joy.”  God had done it.  And God can do it in your life too.  Simply take a moment to turn your heart to the Lord.  Turn your eyes upon Him.  Humbly ask Him for the joy of the Holy Spirit and He will make you rejoice with great joy.  “But the righteous shall be glad; they shall exult before God; they shall be jubilant with joy!” (Psalm 68:3)

July 23 -- "God's Peculiar Economics: Take Less to Have More"

 Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 24 & 25

"God's Peculiar Economics:Take Less to Have More"

God’s laws place a great deal of emphasis on human rights, protections for the defenseless, and care for the needy.  God’s people were commanded to show mercy to those in debt and not to trample on the rights of the poor.  Employers were to be considerate to their employees. Justice was not to favor the rich and powerful. Torture was never to be used to force confessions from suspected lawbreakers. Even farmers were to be kind to their animals and allow them to eat as they worked the fields.

The expression, "the sojourner, the fatherless, and the widow" is repeated more than a dozen times in the Old Testament.  Each time it appears, the LORD is commanding His people to be concerned for those who are less fortunate than themselves.  In Psalm 146:9, we are told that “The Lord watches over the sojourners; he upholds the widow and the fatherless.”  God is concerned about those in need, and He expects us to be concerned as well.

Here, the Israelites are told not to go back to get the droppings of sheaves left behind when they reap their harvest.  No, they should leave them there for fellow citizens in need.  That way, the immigrants, orphans, and widows would have the means for their necessary nutrition. God exhorts the harvesters to do this so that “God may bless you in all the work of your hands.”  In other words, you will have more if you take less.  This principle presents us with a paradox, as God’s Word often does.  It seems absurd to our human nature that if we take less, we will have more.  We are wired to squeeze every last penny of profit for ourselves.  But God insists that there is a greater spiritual principle at work here – one that contradicts our human nature. One that says God will reward our generosity.

God says that His people should never be overly diligent to squeeze the last penny of profit out of any venture. The reality is that if you try to “keep it all for yourself,” you will end up with less in the end.  As we read in Proverbs 11:24, “One gives freely, yet grows all the richer; another withholds what he should give, and only suffers want.”  In other words, the world of those who are generous gets larger and larger, but the world of the stingy gets smaller and smaller.

I would encourage you today to build some generosity into your financial life. Budget to give freely to those in need.  Protect the defenseless.  Care for the needy.  Don’t stockpile it all for yourself, but give consideration to others.  Take less to have more. You will be blessed with the riches of God if you do.

July 22 -- "Lending to Others"

 Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 23

"Lending to Others"

Several years ago, during a very difficult financial time, a friend sent my wife and I some money in the mail.  The note with the money read, “This is not a loan.  It is a gift to you.  All we ask is that one day, when you’re back on your feet, that you do the same for someone else in need.”  Wow!  What a blessing.  They trusted God and we received a much-needed lift.

God’s Word says that people can “wander from the faith and pierce themselves with many griefs” when they allow money to have an improper hold on their hearts (1 Timothy 6:10). That’s why the Bible contains hundreds of verses on how God wants us to treat money, and this includes the lending of it.

Essentially, the Israelites were not permitted to charge interest when they loaned money to a needy brother. They could, however, charge interest on loans made to foreigners. This rule was part of the Mosaic Law: “If you lend money to one of my people among you who is needy, do not be like a moneylender; charge him no interest.” (Exodus 22:25)

The purpose of this law was two-fold: (1) Charging the person interest would only make their financial situation worse; and (2) God promised a blessing on the gracious lender that would be far more than the interest they would have charged.

In the New Testament, Jesus tells us not to “turn away from the one who wants to borrow from you” (Matthew 5:42). He applied this principle even to our enemies in their time of need: “But love your enemies and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great” (Luke 6:35).

There are numerous passages throughout the Bible exhorting us to have a generous and giving heart, especially to the less fortunate.  The clear teaching of the Bible is that God expects His children to act generously when lending money, or anytime they see someone in need. And always remember that our ability to produce wealth comes from God (Deuteronomy 8:18), so it is important that we treat money with an open hand.

One way you can bless a person in need is to offer them a financial gift with no strings attached.  And, if at all possible, do it anonymously so “that your giving may be in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.” (Matthew 6:4)

July 21 -- "Don't Look Away"

 Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 22

"Don't Look Away"

In the first part of chapter 22, Moses gives a collection of brief exhortations about day-to-day living.  He urges the people to act in such a way that is caring and helpful to those around them.  In our culture, these short exhortations might fall under the heading of “Good Samaritan Laws.”  The gist of most of these verses is “don’t look away” when you see your fellow human being in need.

If you see someone’s ox or sheep wandering off loose, don’t look the other way as if you didn’t see it. Return it promptly.  If you see your friend’s donkey or ox injured along the road, don’t look the other way. Help him get it up and on its way.  If its owner does not live nearby or you don’t know who the owner is, take it to your place and keep it until the owner comes looking for it. Then you must return it. 

Jesus capitalized on this idea of helping others in Luke 10 when He taught us about the man who had been beaten by robbers and left seriously injured on the side of the road.  In this illustration, Jesus first points out two people who looked the other way.  First, a priest, followed by a Levite.  These two men knew better.  They were alleged adherents to the Law of Moses, but when it came down to practical application of God’s commands, they simply turned their head and walked on by.  Finally, a Samaritan came along, and in a real practical way helped restore this victim.

The whole idea of these verses is: don’t ignore the needs of others.  You are repeatedly called upon in Scripture to love your neighbor as yourself.  And this love for your neighbor comes through in several concrete, practical actions.

How do you react when you see someone in need?  Perhaps a homeless person freezing in the cold.  Or a neighbor who just lost his job and might lose his home.  Or your friend who is deeply saddened by the grief of loss.  Buried deep within our human nature is the tendency to “look away”  And then we try to rationalize our lack of care by telling ourself that “I can’t solve all the world’s problems.”

You don’t have to solve all the world’s problems.  Just return someone’s donkey. Or give them a warm jacket.  Or offer financial support.  Or walk with them in their time of need.  It really doesn’t take much to love your neighbor, so do it.  By the power of the Holy Spirit, we can overcome our natural human tendency to ignore the needs of others.  Whatever you do, don’t look away.

July 20 -- "He Became Our Curse"

 Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 21

"He Became Our Curse"

In Israel, any person who was executed for breaking God’s law was considered as bearing a “curse” in his body. A curse is the opposite of a blessing: a blessing is a pronouncement of good fortune because one participates in God's plans and promises, a curse is a pronouncement of ill fortune because one opposes God's plans. 

The word “cursed” means something that is despised, something that is devoted to destruction, something that is doomed.  That's what it means to be cursed.  To be cursed by God means that you are set for doom or destruction. 

Since you and I have broken God’s law, all of us are considered as guilty before God and, as a result, we bear a curse in our body. We are doomed.  “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23) Our sin must be punished by the death penalty.  We all have been set for doom and destruction.  God has pronounced His curse upon sinful humanity.

But wait! There's more! Yes, all have sinned. Except one!  Jesus broke none of God’s laws.  He lived a sinless life.  “You know that He [Jesus] appeared in order to take away sins, and in him there is no sin.” (1 John 3:5)  Jesus is the one and only Person who is eligible to walk away from this life without God’s pronouncement of a curse upon Him.  He alone is entitled to participate in God’s blessings and eternal life.

That’s why His death upon the cross was so extraordinary.  For our sake God chose to place our curse upon the Sinless One.  “He made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” (2 Corinthians 5:21)

Christ’s death on the cross was the clear sign to all that He bore the curse of God. He suffered the death penalty on behalf of the law-breakers, so that all who believe in him might escape the law’s curse.  “Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us—for it is written, ‘Cursed is everyone who is hanged on a tree,’ so that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles, so that we might receive the promised Spirit through faith.” (Galatians 3:13)

When Jesus was nailed to the cross: He became a curse. And at the same time dissolved our curse. And now, because of that, the air is cleared and we can see that God’s blessing of eternal life is present and available for anyone who believes. We are all able to receive God’s life, his Spirit, in and with us by believing in the One who took our death penalty and our curse.

July 19 -- "Call Your First Witness"

 Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 19 & 20

"Call Your First Witness"

God’s laws are true and so practical and real-world.  Here Moses gives God’s laws regarding witnesses. Of primary importance under these laws is that nothing shall be decided upon the testimony of a single witness.  The purpose of this law was to protect people from false accusations.  If you had an antagonist who accused you of a sin or a crime, their accusation would not stand unless others (two or three) corroborated their testimony as eyewitnesses. 

In chapter 5 of John’s Gospel, Jesus was accused of giving false testimony about Himself because He did not have the required two-or-three others to support His claims.  He “was even calling God his own Father, making himself equal with God” (John 5:18).

Jesus confirmed God’s law regarding witnesses when He said “If I alone bear witness about myself, my testimony is not true.” (John 5:31)  But then He went on to invoke not two, not three – but four – witnesses to support His claims:   John the Baptist, the works/miracles He performed, God the Father, and their own Scriptures.

Call your first witness: John the Baptist.  John said that Jesus was greater than himself and that he was the Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world. John corroborated Jesus’ claims, but the religious leaders refused to listen.

Witness number two: The powerful works of Jesus.  He had demonstrated His Divine power right in front of their eyes when He went around doing good, casting out demons, and healing all kinds of diseases and infirmities. But the religious leaders refused to see.

Witness number three:  God Himself.  “And the Father who sent me has Himself borne witness about me.”  Here, Jesus is referring to that time a voice came out of the heavens and said, “You are My beloved Son, in You I am well-pleased.” (Mark 1:11)  But the religious leaders refused to hear.

Witness number four: The Scriptures.  Jesus said to the religious leaders, “you search the Scriptures because you think that in them you have eternal life; and it is they that bear witness about me.” (John 5:39)  Jesus tells these religious leaders to “read your own Bibles!”  In the pages of the Scriptures you will discover the truth about who I am.  Tragically, these religious leaders failed to see the clear truth in their very own Bibles proving that if someone’s heart is so hardened by sin and pride, the volume of witnesses will not matter. 

Jesus was, indeed, the very Son of God he claimed to be.  Just ask the witnesses.

July 18 -- "Listen to Him"

 Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 18

"Listen to Him"

Are you listening to “the Prophet?”  In today’s passage, Moses gives the people the promise of a coming One – a Prophet who is to come in the future.  This is a prophetic statement about the future coming of the Messiah, Jesus of Nazareth.  Moses exhorts the people that when He comes, they must listen to Him.

The Christian life revolves around listening to Jesus. Repeatedly in Scripture, we are exhorted to listen to Him. At Jesus’s transfiguration, a voice came out of the cloud saying, “This is my Son, my Chosen One; listen to him!” (Luke 9:35).  Jesus said, “Everyone who is of the truth listens to my voice.” (John 18:37)

Sadly, many Christians struggle with a common disorder known as “selective hearing.” We hear what we want to hear.  We love to listen to Him when He talks to us about love and grace and forgiveness.  But we turn deaf when He talks to us about repentance and obedience and sacrifice.  It is critical that we listen – really listen – to everything Jesus says to us and take action on the things He tells us.

But how can you listen to Him?  Does He speak to your ears in an audible voice?  Not usually (although He could).  There are three main ways that Jesus speaks to you: (1) the “visual channel” - through Scripture; (2) the “auditory channel” - through godly counsel and teaching; and (3) the “heart channel” -through the still, small voice of His Spirit communicating with your spirit.  Make sure you are listening through all three channels.

Start by reading your Bible.  As you read, ask God to speak to you directly from His word by His Spirit – to illuminate your understanding of His word. When you do, you will sense Jesus speaking to you.  When you need wisdom or direction - seek the counsel and advice of your Christian friends, pastors, and leaders. There is wisdom in the abundance of counselors.  Finally, be sure to spend quiet time tuned to the heart channel.  Visit with Him each and every day so you can hear His voice speaking directly to your heart.  It is to Him you shall listen.  And, when you hear, make sure you obey.

July 17 -- "The King God Chooses"

 Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 17

"The King God Chooses"

"Uneasy lies the head that wears a crown."  This quote, often attributed to William Shakespeare's play Henry IV, Part 2, highlights the burdens and responsibilities that come with being a ruler. It suggests that the position of a king or ruler is filled with challenges, anxieties, and constant pressure.

This entire section predicts that the day will come when the Israelites will opt-out of God’s “administration” and opt for a human king.  Although God had expressed that He wanted to walk among them, and be with them, and be their King, He acknowledges here that one day they will ask for a human king, like the other nations have.  Even though having a human king is not God’s “perfect will” for the nation, the LORD makes sure that when that day comes (and it will - see 1 Samuel 8) they have some guidelines on who they choose to put in power.

Some of these rules include: Israeli citizenship - their future king must be a fellow Israelite, not a foreigner. He must not be one who “multiplies horses” for himself or encourages others to do so.  He must be a faithful husband to his wife – one who does not take many wives for himself.  And, he must not be greedy for wealth – multiplying “silver and gold for himself.”

Most importantly, their future king must be the one “whom the LORD your God chooses.”  This is, by far, the most important criteria for selection of their king.  And, it is the most important criteria for us as we choose those who will be elected to public office.  Our duty is not to choose.  Our duty is to discern which candidate God has chosen. But how can we do that?  Well, most importantly we must prayerfully consider our choice and ask God to guide us.

In a practical sense, the leaders we choose must express an ideology that is aligned with Biblical principles and who will promote righteousness in our nation.  No one who follows Jesus should knowingly vote for anyone who stands for values, actions, or goals that directly oppose God’s will.  The leaders we elect should be men or women who display godly character and values and who will fight evil and promote good. 

Be careful to avoid choosing your leaders based on personality, or handsomeness, or oratory skills, or popularity. Choose the person whom the LORD your God chooses.  And always remember, "Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a reproach to any people." (Proverbs 14:34)

July 16 -- "Blinded By Bribes"

 Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 16

"Blinded By Bribes"

Moses instructs the Israelites to appoint judges and officers, organized by tribes, in all the towns the LORD is giving them. But, make sure you appoint “just” judges, a word that means “to act according to what is morally right and fair” – even when others disagree with their rulings. The judges they appoint are to make their rulings fairly and honestly.

He counsels these judges to make sure they avoid “perverting justice.”  In other words, don’t twist the law.  It is tragic that some judges believe that they must occasionally lie or twist or cheat in order to achieve the legal outcomes that they desire. But judges have a solemn and sacred responsibility to judge objectively and fairly.  They do not have the freedom to decide the case according to their own will or desires or political agenda.  When a judge does this, it is called subversion.  Jesus addressed this issue in John 7:24 when He said, “Do not judge by appearances, but judge with right judgment.”

Judges should never play favorites or take a bribe.  Moses tells the people that a bribe blinds even a wise person; it undermines the intentions of the best of people.

On a personal level, we all need to beware of “bribes” that are offered to us to persuade us to compromise our witness for Christ.  I’m not talking about a financial bribe, but something much more sinister.  A “bribe” from our fleshly nature (also known as “the pride of life”).  Our flesh is constantly trying to bribe us by offering “fulfillment” or “admiration” or “enjoyment” from a source contrary to God’s word.  An example of this might be when you are tempted to hide your Christian faith from your co-workers because you’ve been offered the enticement of their “admiration” and “acceptance.”  Be very careful to avoid twisting the truth just so you can benefit from the accolades of others. This kind of bribe blinds even a wise person; it undermines the intentions of the best of people.

You, like the judges of Israel have a solemn and sacred duty to remain true to God’s word and to act according to what is morally right and fair.

July 15 -- "Open Wide Your Hand"

 Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 15

"Open Wide Your Hand"

Jesus often quoted from Scripture during His ministry here on earth.  Most often, He quoted from the Book of Deuteronomy.  By one count, He is recorded as quoting Deuteronomy 37 times in the Gospels.  During His wilderness temptations, each of His Scripture quotations was from Deuteronomy – “It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone” (8:3) – “It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God” (6:16) – “It is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.” (6:13).

In Matthew 26, when Jesus was being anointed at Bethany, He quoted today’s key verse – or at least the first half of it. When Jesus said, “You always have the poor with you,” He was not trying to tell the disciples that they had no obligation to care for the poor.  In fact, He was telling them just the opposite.  By quoting the first half of Deuteronomy 15:11, He was nudging them to remember the entire verse which tells them they must “open wide your hand” to the poor and needy.

When confronted with poverty, the easy response is to draw back.  In fact, some people quote Matthew 26 by saying “Oh well, it’s not my job, after all we’ll always have the poor among us.”  But this response is not consistent with Jesus’ teaching.  So, how do you respond when you are confronted with the needy?  Do you withdraw and tell yourself that “poverty is too big of a problem”?

The truth is that God’s people are commanded (and yes, it’s a command and not a recommendation) to open wide their hand to those in need.  As people of faith, we are the ones commanded to live generously. It’s up to us to care for the poor. We are the ones called to intervene on behalf of those who need our help.

Who are the poor in your community? Have you been living with open or closed hands? If you’ve been tight-fisted, ask the Lord to forgive you and begin today to live with generosity and open handedness.  Ask Him to show you how to bless others with the resources you’ve been given. Pray that all of your actions and thoughts toward the poor in your community become a reflection of God’s love and care.

July 14 -- "The Mystery of the Tithe"

 Today’s Reading: Deuteronomy 13 & 14

"The Mystery of the Tithe"

A funny thing happens when you start talking about money to other Christians. Many of us start to get uncomfortable. Money, and in particular tithing, is one of those things that many people just don’t want to talk about. Somehow most folks feel like talking about money is unspiritual and worldly. In reality, it is probably just a little too convicting.

Tithing is often a very misunderstood spiritual concept. You can find Christian teaching that’s all over the map when it comes to the tithe. Some people say that tithing is just an Old Testament principle that doesn’t apply to us today in the New Covenant. On the other extreme there are people that say God punishes people today who don’t tithe. I’ve actually heard of sermons where preachers said things like, “If you don’t tithe, God will take it from you in doctor’s bills and car repairs.” This is not what the Bible actually says.

When we talk about “tithing” and the “tithe” we’re using terms that are not common today. Because it’s not a common word, some folks can be uncertain what is meant by tithing.  Simply put the word tithe means the tenth part. Another way to say it is that the tithe is ten percent.  God calls on His children to set aside a tenth part of “all the yield of your seed” and offer it to Him.  For most of us today this means to set aside one tenth of all the income we receive.

But, why should you tithe?  Moses goes on in verse 23 of this chapter to state that that the purpose of tithing is to teach you to fear God and always to put God first in your lives. God doesn't need your money, but he wants what it represents — your heart. He wants you to trust Him and place your full dependence upon Him.  It is one of those “Kingdom mysteries,” that we may not fully comprehend, but to be sure there is something spiritually significant about giving God your first and best, rather than the leftovers.

It is not always easy to give the “tenth part” of your income, but it is always beneficial.  Even when it hurts, God promises to bless those who submit themselves to His Lordship and humbly offer Him a small portion (10%) of what He has blessed them with.  Tithing is a reminder that God is the Supplier of everything we have.  It is also God's personal invitation to experience an outpouring of His blessing in your life.