Tuesday, December 3, 2013

Bible Chapter: Exodus 19 & 20

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
    God gave the nation of Israel multiple and ample evidence of His care, guidance and plan for them.  God promised to help them.  They were responsible to listen and obey His commands.  They came to the foot of Mt. Sinai and God called Moses to meet Him on the mount.  God reminded Moses of all He had done for them and how important it was for them to live a righteous life.  The people all promised to do everything God commanded.  In a very dynamic way God revealed the Ten Commandments to them.  This was the foundation of their moral law and the way to live righteously before God.  The commandments told them how to respond to God and get along with each other.
    God’s actions in these chapters show His power and holiness.  The people were warned to not touch the mountain when God was showing His presence there.  Those who follow God must grasp the reality of His holiness.  We must strive to grow in righteousness to be more like Him.  We will never be a God, but we must endeavor to take on His righteousness.  I am reminded of II Corinthians 5:21 NLT “For God made Christ, who never sinned, to be the offering for our sin, so that we could be made right with God through Christ.”  Another translations says “For He made Him who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him.”  NKJV Taking on God’s righteousness is a necessary act for our spiritual growth and a major improvement for daily life.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
    The Ten Commandments are the foundation for living, the foundation for a just and moral society.  There is safety in laws the commandments express.  This passage has been the groundwork for many legal systems.  They cover the important areas of life.  I must always strive to live them.  They make life much better.  God expects obedience.  Memo to self: obey the commandments.

3.  How can I help someone?
    I want to help people see the holiness of God.  His nature is what we need.  We need a loving and caring God. We also need His righteousness to make life better.  We don’t have to be afraid of people who really live a godly life.  People need to see they will be better off when the follow God’s commandments.