PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Deuteronomy.16-18
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“Justice, and only justice, you shall follow.” (Deuteronomy 16:20)
God inspires Moses to keep the theme of justice central in the Law.
The word for ‘justice’ and for ‘righteous’ are the same.
To do justice is to do the right thing, to be right, fair and good.
This needs to be the driving motivation for the people: pursue justice!
They are not to follow others: not other gods, not other people.
The Law of Moses was to be their source for determining justice.
The king was required to write a copy of the Law, to know it by heart (17:18).
‘What is the right thing to do’ needed to be their constant question.
The leaders (prophets, priests and kings) were given to help them know this.
We are no longer under the Law of Moses, but we are called to follow Jesus.
He is our righteous priest (17:8-10), king (17:14-20) and prophet (18:15-22).
As a Jesus follower, I am called to be like Jesus, not like other people.
This is why I read the Gospels constantly, so I can have Jesus written in my heart.
I know I am not righteous/just, but He is and I want to follow Him!
PRAYER
Lord, in so many subtle ways I veer to the left and the right (17:20). Impress Your rightness and goodness on my heart and mind, that I may see the right way to go.
Worship the right God, the right way and faithfully follow! How do I know? By seeking the truth according to the word of the Lord and in the name of the Lord – it will endure and will be revealed – falsehoods will fail. Lord help me to seek the truth through your word revealed – help me not be misled by my own desires and ego!
I’m reminded that you cannot say you abide by the law if you do not know what the law is. Lord help immerse myself in learning more about Your law and what I must follow to be just. Thank you for your shelter and inheritance.
There was this popularized slogan WWJD – what would Jesus do? Lord Jesus as your follower may I take this to heart, that I will live to that slogan and constantly ask what would my Lord Jesus do. Many times I am sidetracked and go left or right. But Holy Spirit help me to focus on Jesus the author and perfector of my faith. Help me to faithfully read the
Gospel and memorize verses that will be my sword against the enemies of God’s kingdom.
The king wrote a copy of the law which was to be with him all his days and he was to read it for it was his guide. I too need to read His Word each day and have it with me always for that Word tells me how to live for Jesus. It is my guide and each day anew it shows me, tells me how to live for Him as His follower.
Chorus
Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet
And a light unto my path
Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet
And a light unto my path
Verse 1
When I feel afraid
And I think I’ve lost my way
Still You’re there right beside me
Nothing will I fear
As long as You are near
Please be near me to the end
Verse 2
I will not forget
Your love for me and yet
My heart forever is wandering
Jesus be my guide
And hold me to Your side
I will love You to the end