Over the last few weeks, I’ve been reading and sharing some thoughts from the study of Deuteronomy 8-13. The Bible is all about gaining wisdom because we are learning from the past, praying in the present, and listening for instructions toward the future. Keep up with my spiritual journey over the next few weeks either through following this blog or the Facebook page I’ve set up at this link: This Day With God – A Spiritual Journey. Let’s share thoughts or ideas about applying our faith in current times.

Studying and sharing thoughts from the post “Ultimate Lift”, the people of Israel went through difficult days as they wandered for 40 years in the wilderness. The Lord humbled them to know what was in their heart but He was teaching them that He would provide if they remained obedient.

The post “By Our Side” is about Moses explaining to the people in Deuteronomy 9 that it is God who sets up success for the future. This day with God, let us be assured of gaining the victory. Sometimes we feel that the world is too much. The load is too heavy but Jesus helps to carry the load. Our belief in Christ assures victory because we have righteousness and strength to finish like champs.

Read “Anchored to His Commandments” for some thoughts about Moses giving the people confidence in providence. He gave them a vision for their future and was preparing them for the Promised Land; a land flowing with milk and honey. To maintain that vision and preparation, Moses pointed out the importance of following the Ten Commandments.

Some of the main points brought out in the post “Pain to Gain” is to document the blessings, share about the tough times, and always teach the next generation the benefits of following the way of God.

The study entitled “Climb Higher Towards Spiritual Assets” inspires you toward spiritual assets like faith, hope, and love. These are eternal assets rather than material assets which are temporary.

Be encouraged by the post “A Lift” which discusses the need to be enticed towards worshiping the Lord rather than idols. To be enticed towards gaining a heart of wisdom rather than useless items that provide no benefit.

We live in a busy world with busy schedules and being able to share some thoughts about this journey with others across this world through the Internet is truly a blessing. The below Questions for Reflection will stimulate thought and offer ideas for applying biblical principles at work, at home, and in all we do.

Questions for Reflection

Deuteronomy 14 – What is Israel’s relationship to God? What do you think are the purpose of the dietary regulations (See 8:3)? What is the purpose of the tithe? What is the quality of your worship?

Deuteronomy 15 – What are the ultimate values in the Hebrew law? What is the significance of the seventh-year release? Of what significance, do you think, is the fact that the rich lend rather than give to the poor?

Deuteronomy 16:1-17 – What three annual events require meeting at the central place of worship? What is the basis of Hebrew worship? What is the significance of joy in connection with these events? What are you prepared to do to bring joy into worship?

Deuteronomy 16:18 through 17:20 – Why, do you think, are the provisions here to assure justice so important (See 10:17-18)? Are these principles important for your nation? Why? What do you do when you become aware of idolatry in your life?

Deuteronomy 18-19 – Why do the Levites have a due (See Num. 8:14-19)? How will God reveal himself to the Israelites? What provisions are included here to secure justice?

Deuteronomy 20 – What is the basis of Israel’s trust in God during war? To what extent are God’s commandments practical? What can you do to become more aware of this dimension of life?

Feel free to respond with a short note or a comment about any of the questions above. Also, I welcome any other thoughts or ideas, favorite inspirational videos, photos, or favorite Bible verses. Just add them to the comments.

Resources and Supplementary Helps Used in Posts

Adeney, Carol. This Morning with God: A Daily Study Guide to the Entire Bible. Downers Grove, IL: InterVarsity, 1978. Print.

“Sermons.” Sermons | FUMC Waco. N.p., n.d. Web.  <http://fumcwaco.org/resources/sermons/>.

“Bible.” The Bible – The Word of God – ChristNotes. N.p., n.d. Web. 2017. <http://www.christianity.com/bible/>.

Nicholes, Lou. “Recent Commentaries.” Family-Times.net – Devotional Commentary Index. N.p., n.d. Web. <http://www.family-times.net/commentary/>.

“Bing.” Microsoft. N.p., n.d. Web. Images >.

“BibleGateway.” BibleGateway.com: A Searchable Online Bible in over 150 Versions and 50 Languages. N.p., n.d. Web. <https://www.biblegateway.com/>.

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