Today’s passage: Deuteronomy 26
Helpful thoughts:
- Today’s chapter is the last in the book of Deuteronomy that gives specific laws for Israel to follow.
- The final command given encapsulates the big picture of God’s redemption of Israel and His continued care and provision for the people, the offering of first fruits and tithes.
- The covenant between God and Israel included their loyalty and obedience to Him and His care for, protection and provision for them. These truths were to be recounted by the people for their remembrance and worship.
Questions to consider:
- What does it mean that Israel was to keep these commands with all their heart and all their soul (Verse 16)? What does God desire (and what does He know we need) beyond simple rote obedience?
- What are God’s people to Him (Verse 18)? What does it matter for you to know that as a child of God, as a member of His family and kingdom, you are a treasured possession of Almighty God?
- It would seem that the final phrase, “you shall be a people holy to the Lord” (Verse 19) should be a command, but it’s given as a promise! What promise was God making there to Israel? How is that promise true for the church today (and in the future)? What is your identity and purpose in this world?