Day 87

Deuteronomy 9:1–10:22; Luke 8:4-21; Psalm 69:19-36; Proverbs 12:2-3

HAVE YOU EVER wondered about the rules of faith? What are we supposed to be doing, and in what order, and by what means? What is the magic recipe we should follow that will make it all work as it’s supposed to? Moses answered that question today in Deuteronomy.

By way of reminder, Deuteronomy chronicles the three final discourses Moses spoke to the children of Israel —his last words of leadership. He was passionate about what he was saying, because it was very important that the people remember the rules. But the rules boil down to something far more fundamental than behavior modification:

And now, Israel, what does the LORD your God require of you? He requires only that you fear the LORD your God, and live in a way that pleases him, and love him and serve him with all your heart and soul.

It seems as if God’s foundational desire for the children of Israel should be a little more complicated than this. There are so many rules, rituals, customs, and observances in the Mosaic law, and so many reminders that must be obeyed. When we begin to peel the layers back, though, we begin to realize that the rules were the outer boundaries. Beyond them was a road that leads to death and destruction. The law didn’t exist to cage and control the people. It existed to do exactly what Moses said it must —remind the people who they were, where they’d come from, and who God is.

The Christian faith is not dissimilar. It’s important to recognize that God is not interested in creating a rule-based dominance over His people. He was and is interested in a relationship —He wants to be known. If we actually do love God with all our heart, mind, and strength, the rules will become apparent and have meaning, as in all relationships. There are things we shouldn’t participate in because we are in love with the Lord and unwilling to betray that love. This is how obedience takes shape in our lives. God hasn’t given rules so life will be dull. He has shown us what will destroy us and allowed us to choose life.

MEDITATION:

The humble will see their God at work and be glad. Let all who seek God’s help be encouraged. For the LORD hears the cries of the needy; he does not despise his imprisoned people.