Bible Pathways 03/09/2004
March 9
Read Deuteronomy 24 -- 27
In Today's Reading:
Divorce; domestic relations; firstfruits and tithes; the Law on Mount Ebal; an altar on Mount Gerizim
Moses, the lawgiver and prophet, warned against two sets of weights and measures — one for buying and the other for selling: You shall not have in your house divers (different) measures, a great and a small. But you shall have a perfect and just weight, a perfect and just measure . . that your days may be lengthened in the land which the LORD your God gives you. For all that do . . . unrighteously, are an abomination (detestable) to the LORD your God (Deuteronomy 25:14-16). God hates lying and bribery. Each of us has the opportunity to exercise the principles of justice and equity or to take advantage of others, which takes some form of dishonesty such as wasting time on the job, taking what doesn't belong to us, unethical business transactions, lies, fraud, or any other dishonest act.
Our relationship with others goes much deeper than either word or deed; it goes to the hidden motives of our hearts and reveals what we truly are. This means that the thoughts of a Christian should always be the expression of what Jesus would do.
The attitude of fairness and consideration for others' well-being applies to a Christian's daily conduct. The self-centered "I" must give way to Christ and His control.
It is possible to have bitter thoughts while doing kind deeds and to say loving words while having wrong attitudes and motives. But, our Adamic nature and its self-serving conduct can be overcome by the Christ-centered nature that He has bestowed within us.
Abraham, the father of the faithful (Romans 4:11), exemplified this as he gave up his right to the possession of the best land to his nephew Lot in order to settle a dispute (Genesis 13:8-9).
The weapons of our warfare are not carnal (fleshly), but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds . . . bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ (II Corinthians 10:4-5).
Word Studies:
24:12 not sleep with his pledge = not to keep it overnight; 25:18 smote the hindmost of thee = struck down those who were feeble and lagged behind; 27:16 setteth light = dishonors, insults, disgraces.
Christ Revealed:
Through the deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt and Pharaoh (Deuteronomy 26:8). Our Lord Jesus Christ has delivered us from the power of darkness . . . even the forgiveness of sins (Colossians 1:13-14).
Prayer Needs:
Government Official: Rep. Vito Fossella (NY) · Country: Sierra Leone (5 million) in western Africa · Major language: English · Increasing restrictions on Christian work in some areas · 50% belief in river spirits, medicine men, and witchcraft; 39% Muslim; 7% Protestant; 2% Roman Catholic · Prayer Suggestion: Give thanks to the God of heaven; His mercy and loving-kindness endure forever (Psalm 136:26).
Optional Reading: Luke 24
Memory Verse for the Week: John 3:15
