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March 4 + Daily notes & readings

DAY 63

We're winding down our reading in Deuteronomy.  The people have the law of God before them; they have a new leader commissioned over them.  God ensures them that they can bold and do not have to fear the people, and that, even though the Lord is sure they will turn away, there will be a way back to God's grace.

DAILY READINGS

Deuteronomy 30-31 & Psalm 63

DAILY NOTES

Deuteronomy 30:1-5

  • A foreshadow of what to expect from the people.
  • Although God has outlined the curses that the people will face if they turn away, God promises to receive them again and return them, assuming/knowing they will be exiled.
Deuteronomy 30:6
  • Again, we see that what matters most to God is that the people love God will all their heart.
Deuteronomy 31:1-3
  • Moses prepares the people to cross over without his leadership.  They can be sure of God's presence and victory.
Deuteronomy 31:7
  • Joshua is recognized as the next leader of the Israelites.  Moses' command is to be "strong and bold."
Deuteronomy 31:10-13
  • It is prescribed that the law shall be read in its entirety every seven years.  It isn't just a reminder, it is a new invitation for new generations to hear the words and obey the commands of God.
Psalm 63
  • God's presence brings security and protection to the psalmist.  So, the psalmist blesses God, worships God and seeks God.

OTHER OBSERVATIONS

We've been singing for a long time.  

Deuteronomy 31 introduces a final song of Moses; Moses and the people sang once they crossed the sea.  Now, as Moses' time is coming to a finish, he is instructed to teach people this song.  Interestingly, the song is to be a witness against the people.  They will sing the reminder of their infidelity to God.  

That's not exactly what we think of when it comes to our singing.  We like to sing songs about faithfulness, God's power and new life.  

Pay attention to the worship songs you sing.  Do they do more than affirm faith?  Do they witness against you?  Do they help you not only praise God, but also recognize your need for God?

Stay blessed...john

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