PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Deuteronomy 15-16
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“Remember that you were slaves in Egypt…” (Deuteronomy 16:12)
In the feasts, the Lord’s gracious generosity is celebrated.
In regards to the poor, they are commanded to be generous too.
“Give to them as the Lord your God has blessed you.” (Deuteronomy 15:14)
These laws are remarkable for their time, unlike the other nations.
Even the laws of servanthood are more like labour laws for workers.
Behind these laws is their own experience as slaves and God’s amazing grace.
They knew what it was to be abused, and what it was to be blessed.
What these laws point to is the Law behind the laws – the Law of Love!
“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.” (Matthew 7:12)
This is also what “love your neighbour as yourself” (Matthew 22:39) means.
Jesus urges us to remember God’s mercy, and show it to others.
Love fulfills the laws; everyone – even enemies – should be loved.
Do I treat others as graciously and patiently as God treats me?
PRAYER
Lord, thank you for your amazing grace for me; help me to show amazing grace to others, so that they too can be won over by grace!
God is gracious and generous – When we follow His ways, He provides the rain and blesses our herds and flocks. God expects us to have the same openhanded generosity for others – we too must be ready to forgive. Not only are we to bring regular gifts/offerings in worship but also we must be willing to forgive. WE must not be ‘tight-fisted’ but rather gracious, forgiving and generous. Lord, help me to be that way! I recognize your grace in my life – help in turn to be gracious!
Once again we hear of God’s grace and mercy to His people. There are many examples of how we should live in His presence. Serve God. Love God. Love your fellow man. God needs to be first in all we do and say. Our words and deeds must reflect the love of God. Jesus came to serve and I too need to do that in His name. Serve Him. Serve others. That’s true JOY.
1 Grace and truth shall mark the way
Where the Lord His own will lead,
If His word they still obey
And His testimonies heed.
2 For Thy name’s sake hear Thou me,
For Thy mercy, Lord, I wait;
Pardon my iniquity,
For my sin is very great.
3 He who walks in godly fear
In the path of truth shall go;
Peace shall be his portion here,
And his sons all good shall know.
4 They that fear and love the Lord
Shall His holy friendship know;
He will grace to them accord,
And His faithful covenant show.