Day 57

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We were made to live in peace...

Scripture

February 26—Deuteronomy 21-26: Social Laws in the Land

Observation

Today's reading is long, but it contains fascinating insights into some what if questions that will no doubt arise once the people are in the land. Moses covers such topics as how to purify the land from an unsolved murder, how to administer capital punishment, who is eligible for membership in the congregation and who is excluded, how to avoid the extinction of a family name, when and how money may be loaned for interest. Such regulations are essential if the people of God are to live in peace and purity in the Promised Land. 

Application

How far does God's care extend? Is he concerned about things like cruelty to animals, preservation of the species and global warming? How about accurate pricing at the stores, or protecting consumers from loan sharks?

All of the above and more are discussed in today's reading. At first you may have thought you'd stumbled across a disjointed collection of do's and don'ts. But keep the big picture in mind. God is interested in every detail of life. Whatever affects his people concerns him. His love and compassion extend even to the treatment of animals: "Don't muzzle an ox as it treads out the grains" (25:4); "If bird's nest is lying on the ground don't take the mother with the young" (22:6), thus preserving the species.

Aren't you glad the God who created and sustains nature is also the God who created and sustains us? Write down three other evidences of God's care from today's reading. Then read Matthew 6:25-34. The God who looks after lilies and sparrows is looking after us!

Prayer

Our Lord, our God who needs nothing but brought us into existence so that you may love and perfect us. We just want to tell you thank you for loving us and we know one day you will perfect us. Hallelujah! In Jesus name, amen!

We are all God's creatures!


© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business! 2019

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