In the first few verses of Deuteronomy 25 we see some important principles about discipline - the punishment should follow quickly after the offense, the degree of punishment should reflect the seriousness of the offense, and the punishment should not be overdone.
In chapter 26 there is another recitation of what God had done for the Israelites. It is so important that we consistently, purposefully remember what God has done for us, and to share those stories with each other as an encouragement and inspiration to us both.
In 27 we see a list of curses and the people promising to stay away from wrong actions. These aren't a list of curses from a bad-tempered God just waiting to crush anyone who steps out of line. These are not threats, but loving warnings about the plain facts of life - just like we warn our children to be careful near busy streets and not play with matches. Wrongdoing towards others and God has consequences, and God warns us of this truth, motivated by love and not anger. Thankfully, there is a list of blessings in tomorrow's passage!
In Acts we see an example of wrong the prosperity gospel is.
Stephen, full of grace and power, was doing great wonders and signs among the people.
Stephen was a godly man and he was doing everything right. But instead of receiving wealth and comfort and a life of ease, he was arrested on false charges.
Following God does not mean that good will always prevail over evil here on earth - but it will when Christ returns!
Tomorrow's Bible In a Year Passage passage: Deuteronomy 28-29; Acts 7:1-21
3 comments:
It's reassuring to know that we will be judged by God, who is all knowing, fair and loving, rather than a human judge who can be dishonest and would be swayed by personal gains.
I was thinking the same thing as Nathan that we will be judged by a fair God. He will not have differing weights or measures which we can easily fall to.
Also a good reminder for us as parents to be consistent with parenting our children.
Some laws make you wonder just how often they happen??!! 11 “When men fight with one another and the wife of the one draws near to rescue her husband from the hand of him who is beating him and puts out her hand and seizes him by the private parts, 12 then you shall cut off her hand.
From the NT:
10 But they could not withstand the wisdom and the Spirit with which he was speaking.
I think sometimes this happens to us too. We don't always understand and so we can't relate.
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