(166) 15 June : Proverbs 14v19 / Deuteronomy 12-13 / Psalm 38v13-17

BEGIN WITH PRAYER

"Lord open my eyes and my heart."

Read slowly so that you take in. And as you do, turn your heart to God, thanking him for the good you discover and praying his will home for you, your family, your church and the world. 

Wisdom to chew on

Proverbs 14:19

Understanding to grow in

To turn from the Lord to other gods and religions couldn't be more serious. Two things here protect the people against that. First, they are only to worship as God commanded (12v32). Not anywhere one could find a high place as paganism did, but at a specific place God would appoint and according to the practices he prescribed. Second, they are to put to death those who entice them from the LORD, whether it is prophets who can perform signs and wonders, relatives, or whole towns. God's commands for our worship are different. We can worship anywhere, but it must be in Spirit and truth - acknowledging him as he actually is (Jn 4v21-24). And it is to be as he has prescribed, meeting together to hear from his word, encourage one-another, sing, pray and reverently celebrate the Lord's Supper. Moreover, although the death penalty for enticing people into idolatry is left for the last judgment, believers are called to cast our of their fellowship those who would corrupt it (1 Tim 1v18-20). As you read note the promises God makes if the people will remain faithful.

Deuteronomy 12-13

Finish this reading by pausing to ask yourself:

1) What’s the main thing it teaches me about God or his purposes in Christ? Then praise him for this.

2) What’s the main thing it teaches me about his will for me or the world? Then pray that home.

Devotion to offer up

You could read this aloud and perhaps as a springboard to further prayer.

Psalm 38:13-17

·       For introductions to the various Bible books click here.

·       To consult Matthew Henry’s concise commentary click here.