February 22–Deuteronomy 16-19

“You shall sacrifice the Passover. . .in the place where the Lord chooses to establish His name”(16:2).

Moses is very careful with this truth. Will you pause and review chapters 12-19 (our reading from yesterday and today)? Will you circle every time the Scripture says “in the place He chooses”? (Nineteen times in the NASV!)

When the nation came into the land, God promised to choose a place for worship. To this designated place, He called the people to gather in unity. No allowance was to be made for individual choice or personal preference. In recognition of His authority, they were to go where He told them, because He told them. Self-will and self-determination were excluded in matters of worship.

To the modern reader, this may seem narrow and legalistic. Can we not worship at home if we choose? Isn’t preference a factor? Convenience? No, says the Lord. No.

It is a matter and moment of self-denial. See Luke 9:23. Blessed breakthrough when a believer rejects self-rule! Renouncing loyalty to his own logic and ambitions, confessing sin and small ambition, the believer declares a life-giving loyalty to God’s will. Worship, by its very nature, requires us to expand beyond ourselves. To look upward. To reflect on the will of One higher. “What do I like? What is convenient or pleasing to me?” These are questions that have no place in the heart of a true worshipper.

As the Spirit guides me to a congregation, I must go there with my eyes completely on the Savior. He will choose a place for me. I go to the place He chooses.

Friend, as you worship do you assert your will or do you bend it in submission to the Lord?

“Not my will, but Thine be done” (Luke 22:42).

“Not forsaking the assembling together, but encouraging one another”(Hebrews 10:25).

“Those who are being led by the Spirit of God, these are the sons of God” (Romans 8:14).

February 21–Deuteronomy 12-15

“For the poor will never cease to be in the land; therefore I command you, saying, ‘You shall freely open your hand to your brother, to your needy and poor in your land’ “(15:11).

When Jesus said, “the poor you will always have with you” (John 12:8, Matthew 26:11), He was not being calloused or unsympathetic. Our Lord was quoting scripture and teaching us reality. In a broken world, poverty is a problem that will never permanently go away.

Whether feeding five thousand or preaching “the gospel to the poor” (Luke 4:18) or commanding the rich young ruler to “go, sell, give to the poor” (Matthew 19:21), Jesus lived in concrete fulfillment of the Mosaic law of compassion. In Acts 4:34, the Spirit-filled church continued this Kingdom value. In obedience to Christ, they opened their hands to the poor.

Certain conditions apply. We will consider these later. See 2 Thessalonians 3:10. Even so, the command stands for every believer. “You shall not harden your heart, nor close your hand from your poor brother” (15:7).

To accomplish this task, we must open our minds to God’s promise of infinite supply. “The Lord will bless you in all your work and undertakings” (15: 10). In Christ, those who give to the poor do not have less for doing so. “He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness” (2 Corinthians 9:10).

“YOU give them something to eat,” Jesus told his disciples (Mark 6:37) as they stood hopeless before the needs of the hungry crowd. He insisted they (we) accept the responsibility to act in a world of need. If God is “a very present help in time of trouble” (see Psalm 46:1), then we, His people, must also be. Believing friend, are you generous with the poor? Will you open your hand?

“I am only one, but I am one. I cannot do everything, but I can do something. And what I can do, I ought to do. And what I ought to do, by the grace of God, I shall do” (Edward Everett Hale).

“Give and it will be given to you. They will pour into your lap a good measure–pressed down, shaken together, and running over. For by your standard of measure it will be measured to you in return” (Luke 6:38).

February 20–Deuteronomy 9-11

“Remember, do not forget how you provoked the Lord your God to wrath in the wilderness; from the day that you left the land of Egypt until you arrived at this place, you have been rebellious against the Lord”(9:7).

Hard words. As helpful as hard. In our reading today, Moses reviews the history of Israel as it touches the subject of sin. Their sin. Ours.

He speaks of stubbornness and rebellion. Without any apology or hesitation, he vividly describes the unbelief of God’s people and the anger that came as a result. He does not avoid the discussion. Wants them to face the problem honestly.

Humans have fallen into sin. We are sinners by nature. Contemporary Christians often resist such preaching. It feels negative. Harsh. Judgmental. We prefer positive words and encouragement.

God’s love, however, insists we talk about sin and consequences. Apart from these certainties, people are left in denial and darkness–believing themselves to be innocent, confused when they experience His displeasure. Remember the people of Jerusalem in Jeremiah’s time? Despite the words of the prophet, they clung to the idea that God would never destroy His people.

Jesus predicted the loving ministry of the Holy Spirit. “He will convict the world of sin.” See John 16:8. The verb convict means “to convince”. It was a legal word for a jury decision. Less about producing guilt feelings, more about providing evidence to convince the mind and conscience.

In a day of revival, the Holy Spirit does this loving work. He convicts. He convinces. He presses us to reach a verdict on ourselves and the whole race of men. Until this truthful assessment is reached, no real progress with God is possible.

Friend, do you remember your sin? Are you convinced by the Spirit that your history and heart prove a tendency toward it? Can you admit the inner rebellion, the pride, the stubbornness that presses against the Great High God? Do you see the danger still present in your flesh?

“For I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me. Against You, You only, I have sinned and done what is evil in your sight” (Psalm 51:3-4).

“Jesus! What a friend for sinners! Jesus! Lover of my soul; friends may fail me, foes assail me, He, my Savior, makes me whole” (John Wilbur Chapman).

February 19–Deuteronomy 5-8

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might” (Deuteronomy 6:4).

For many years, in the worship services of First Baptist Church, San Antonio, Texas, the last words were predictable. Sermon preached. Hymns sung. Announcements made. People standing, I would say to that gathered family, “You are dearly loved!”

Adverbs are necessary with God. He doesn’t just love us. He DEARLY loves us!

John 3:16 is courageously clear at this point. In order to be accurate, the verb is modified, expanded, pressed to the edges of its possible meanings. “For God SO loved the world.” John 13:1 is similar. “Having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them TO THE END (the uttermost, the highest reach of what love can be).”

In Deuteronomy, as Moses retells the history of God with His people, he speaks often of God’s love for them, His tender concern and commitment to their welfare. “That it may be well with you.” “That your days may be prolonged.” Again and again, Moses makes the point. They were DEARLY loved.

The only appropriate response to love is love! God calls us to answer in kind. As I look back over my life I see clearly. I have never had a better friend than Jesus! Strong. Kind. Patient. Faithful. What is my obligation in the face of such love? I must love Him in return. He deserves it!

As you read the words of Moses today, will you notice several incentives to love God well? We should love Him out of gratitude. “I am the Lord who brought you out of bondage” (5:6). We should love Him in hope. “He will love you and bless you and multiply you” (7:13). We should love Him in fear. “Otherwise the anger of the Lord your God will be kindled against you” (6:15).

Dear reader, as you observe your own heart, can you see ways that your love for God is growing stronger and cleaner with each passing day? You are dearly loved. Shouldn’t He be, as well?

“More love to Thee, O Christ, more love to Thee! Hear Thou the prayer I make on bended knee; This is my earnest plea, more love, O Christ, to Thee, more love to Thee, more love to Thee! (E. Prentiss).

“Simon, son of John, do you love Me?” (John 21:16).

February 18–Deuteronomy 3-4

“Now, O Israel, listen to the statutes and the judgements which I am teaching you to perform, so that you may live and go in and take possession of the land which the Lord, the God of your fathers is giving you. . .keep them and do them, for that is your wisdom and your understanding” (4:1, 6).

Our grandchildren laugh at the number of reading glasses Holly and I have in our home. It is a fact of life. As we age, eyesight often dims.

God compensates this loss for older saints. He gives Spiritual insight. As we seek Him, He uses years to help us see some things better than ever before. Spiritual things. Lasting things. True things.

In Deuteronomy 3-4, Moses is an old man. Months or weeks away from death, his heart is still vibrant and strong. His vision keen. If he is old but wise. With great love, he verbalizes what he sees.

God is great and strong! For all that Moses has experienced over the years (significant things, amazing things) he believes that He has only just begun to see the infinite majesty of God! “O Lord God, You have BEGUN to show Your servant Your greatness and Your strong hand”(3:24).

To walk with God in obedience is a unique and wonderful privilege! “Has anything been done like this great thing, or has anything been heard like it? Has any people heard the voice of God?” (4:7, 4:32-33). God births His people into direct, personal and living contact with Him. He speaks to us. He guides and protects us. How foolish we are to yearn to be like the world. “Make a king for us. We want to be like other nations,” the people will say in a later chapter. What a sad and familiar mistake it is to ignore the extraordinary privilege of His friendship.

The Lord’s anger is real! Painful truth. See 3: 23 and 4:21. Moses begged God to rescind the decision to forbid him entrance into the land promised. God’s answer was a firm “No”. As Moses searched for peace in God’s discipline, he came to understand that God was angry with him “on account” of the people (Hebrew, mah’an, purpose, intent). God’s discipline had two purposes. One purpose was to teach Moses. Another was to teach and warn Israel. Forgiveness is real. So, at times, are consequences.

Over the course of your days has God given you sight? Once blind, do you now see what you didn’t before? Will you speak what you see? Will you listen (see 4:1) when others (particularly the elders) speak their wisdom?

“As for the days of our life, they contain seventy years, or if due to strength, eighty years, yet their pride is but labor and sorrow; for soon it is gone and we fly away. . .So teach us to number our days, that we may present to You a heart of wisdom” (Moses, Psalm 90:10, 12).

February 17–Deuteronomy 1-2

“These are the words which Moses spoke to all Israel across the Jordan in the wilderness” (Deuteronomy 1:1).

The English name for this book is taken from two Greek words. Deutero, “second”. Nomos, “law”. It is, “a second telling of the Law.”

This vibrant book contains three farewell addresses from Moses, delivered to a new generation of Israel as they stood looking into the promised land, and looking back on the lessons of the past. Like sermons, the words of Moses were aimed at the conscience of the nation. As the people stood on the threshold of a new chapter, their faithful leader reviewed their history and urged them to learn from it.

When the Bible says, “Be still and know that I am God”(Psalm 46:10), it is good for us to see two, separate commandments. The first requirement is to be still. Stop the anxious activity! Calm the constant and counterproductive chatter of your fearful heart! Get quiet! The second is to know God. As you reflect on God in stillness, He intends you to arrive at certain clear convictions. The wisdom you need for the present is revealed as you consider the past.

In Deuteronomy 1, Moses reminded the people how SLOW the process has been, how delayed and inefficient the path. Eleven days would have been sufficient to journey from Horeb (Sinai) to Kadesh-barnea. See 1:2. The trip had, instead, taken forty years! Take note, dear friend. Unbelief will never help you. It will not hasten your progress. It will only make the journey longer and harder.

Moses also reminded them of the times of their STUBBORNNESS. “You were not willing. . .but rebelled against the command of the Lord your God” (1:26). Sin brings consequences. God’s people need this reminder and warning.

Today, will you do a Deuteronomy-like thing? Will you think back over your own story with God? Honest, now. What have you learned of God over your years? Do you have a journal? Will you write your answer? What convictions and choices is the Spirit urging on you as a new chapter begins?

” The significance–and ultimately the quality–of the work we do is determined by our understanding of the story in which we are taking part”(Wendell Berry).

“So, remember what you have received and heard; and keep it, and repent” (Revelation 3:3).

February 17–Deuteronomy 1-2

“These are the words which Moses spoke to all Israel across the Jordan in the wilderness” (Deuteronomy 1:1).

The English name for this book is taken from two Greek words. Deutero, “second”. Nomos, “law”. It is, “a second telling of the Law.”

This vibrant book contains three farewell addresses from Moses, delivered to a new generation of Israel as they stood looking into the promised land, and looking back on the lessons of the past. Like sermons, the words of Moses were aimed at the conscience of the nation. As the people stood on the threshold of a new chapter, their faithful leader reviewed their history and urged them to learn from it.

When the Bible says, “Be still and know that I am God”(Psalm 46:10), it is good for us to see two, separate commandments. The first requirement is to be still. Stop the anxious activity! Calm the constant and counterproductive chatter of your fearful heart! Get quiet! The second is to know God. As you reflect on God in stillness, He intends you to arrive at certain clear convictions. The wisdom you need for the present is revealed as you consider the past.

In Deuteronomy 1, Moses reminded the people how SLOW the process has been, how delayed and inefficient the path. Eleven days would have been sufficient to journey from Horeb (Sinai) to Kadesh-barnea. See 1:2. The trip had, instead, taken forty years! Take note, dear friend. Unbelief will never help you. It will not hasten your progress. It will only make the journey longer and harder.

Moses also reminded them of the times of their STUBBORNNESS. “You were not willing. . .but rebelled against the command of the Lord your God” (1:26). Sin brings consequences. God’s people need this reminder and warning.

Today, will you do a Deuteronomy-like thing? Will you think back over your own story with God? Honest, now. What have you learned of God over your years? Do you have a journal? Will you write your answer? What convictions and choices is the Spirit urging on you as a new chapter begins?

” The significance–and ultimately the quality–of the work we do is determined by our understanding of the story in which we are taking part”(Wendell Berry).

“So, remember what you have received and heard; and keep it, and repent” (Revelation 3:3).

February 16–Numbers 33-36

“These are the journeys of the sons of Israel, by which they came out from the land of Egypt”(33:1).

It will be a journey. Was for Israel. Will be for us. One step, then another. Gradual. Cumulative. Inches of progress. Important. Eternal.

Strange, isn’t it? An eternal God uses time. He to whom time means nothing values its impact on us. He rarely accomplishes His purpose in a “miracle moment”. Uses, instead, a process to shape us. Teaches us the importance of patience and perseverance.

God commanded Moses to, “record their starting places according to their journeys.” See 33:2. Every place was to be remembered. Each lesson captured and treasured. Even the hard moments! Do I wish God’s lessons could come quicker? Yes! Are there some moments in the journey I would like to skip? Yes. A wiser mind sees each day as a GIFT. Even the slow and uncomfortable ones.

” ‘I am quite at a loss to know which way to turn,’ a person once said to his friend. ‘Then don’t turn at all,’ came the wise reply” (C. H. Mackintosh).

Friend, what is the Lord teaching you in this present chapter of your life? Do you realize that the Lord will want it recorded and remembered? That it is important to God and valuable to you? Will you embrace it with a patient and happy heart? At the end of life, in the great review that will eventually come, you will look back and see that the Lord was with you every step and every stop.

“Not all those who wander are lost”(J.R.R. Tolkein).

“There ain’t no journey what don’t change you some” (David Mitchell).

“Therefore, since we have such a great cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily besets us and let us run with patience the race set before us”(Hebrews 12:1).

February 16–Numbers 33-36

“These are the journeys of the sons of Israel, by which they came out from the land of Egypt”(33:1).

It will be a journey. Was for Israel. Will be for us. One step, then another. Gradual. Cumulative. Inches of progress. Important. Eternal.

Strange, isn’t it? An eternal God uses time. He to whom time means nothing values its impact on us. He rarely accomplishes His purpose in a “miracle moment”. Uses, instead, a process to shape us. Teaches us the importance of patience and perseverance.

God commanded Moses to, “record their starting places according to their journeys.” See 33:2. Every place was to be remembered. Each lesson captured and treasured. Even the hard moments! Do I wish God’s lessons could come quicker? Yes! Are there some moments in the journey I would like to skip? Yes. A wiser mind sees each day as a GIFT. Even the slow and uncomfortable ones.

” ‘I am quite at a loss to know which way to turn,’ a person once said to his friend. ‘Then don’t turn at all,’ came the wise reply” (C. H. Mackintosh).

Friend, what is the Lord teaching you in this present chapter of your life? Do you realize that the Lord will want it recorded and remembered? That it is important to God and valuable to you? Will you embrace it with a patient and happy heart? At the end of life, in the great review that will eventually come, you will look back and see that the Lord was with you every step and every stop.

“Not all those who wander are lost”(J.R.R. Tolkein).

“There ain’t no journey what don’t change you some” (David Mitchell).

“Therefore, since we have such a great cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let us lay aside every encumbrance and the sin which so easily besets us and let us run with patience the race set before us”(Hebrews 12:1).

February 15-Numbers 30-32

“Arm men from among you for the war, that they may go against Midian to execute the Lord’s vengeance”(31:3).

Christ-followers are often called upon to defend the Sanctity of Human Life. Humans are made in God’s image with particular purpose and value to God. Life, therefore, is sacred.

Doing so, we must never set this principle against God, Himself. We must never propose human life as inviolate, must never claim that even God cannot righteously take life.

As both Creator and Judge, vengeance (even when it requires the sentence of death) is His right. Justice is part of His holiness. There is, “a time to kill,” says Ecclesiastes 3:3. Only God knows it.

In Numbers 31, Moses is given a divine assignment. Vengeance against Midian is God’s command. Like the decision to destroy the Canaanite cultures (Genesis 15:16), this solemn verdict came from God only after great patience. He is slow to anger, but does not leave the guilty unpunished. See Numbers 14:18.

Be careful here, dear friend. Moderns often turn away from God at this very place, preferring the wisdom of the secular age (humanism). In the New Testament, Scripture declares that GOD gives the sword to government. See Romans 13. (The sword is a symbol of the death sentence, either in justice or war.) The same picture appears again in Revelation 19:13-15. Christ comes with a sharp sword to slay the nations, and a robe dipped in blood.

The wrath of God is real and righteous, not a doctrine to be diluted or rejected in unbelief.

The idea/conversation of a “just war” is usually associated with Augustine. There are times, he reasoned, that war, while terrible, is the right and moral choice. Meeting certain criteria, guided by certain rules of conduct, motivated by right concerns, war is, at times, the permissive WILL of God.

Is it ever right to kill? Some say “no”. The Bible says “yes”. In a universe made by God, human rights are not the highest value. God’s name and holiness is! This being so, there are times, in the face of evil, war (or self-defense or capital punishment) can be an act of righteousness and courage.

“Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed”(Genesis 9:6).

” ‘Vengeance is mine, I will repay,’ says the Lord” (Romans 12:19).