09.24.09: Deuternomy 8 - 17

"I'm starving!" we often say in deliberate exaggeration. It's just a signal to those nearby that we're really hungry and open to devoting great energy to getting access to food as soon as possible. In this reminiscence by Moses, God reminds the Israelites that he allowed them to experiencing hunger for a purpose, to help them learn something about finding satisfaction.
Jesus quoted Deuteronomy 8:3 when the devil tempted him to turn stones into bread (Matthew 4:4). Many people think that life is based on satisfying their appetites. If they can earn enough money to dress, eat, and play in high style, they think they are living "the good life." But such things do not satisfy our deepest longings. In the end they leave us empty and dissatisfied. Real life, according to Moses, comes from total commitment to God and living by every word that comes from Him. How can we live by His word?
1. Recognize our need for it
2. Agree that God alone can truly satisfy us
3. Pray for God's presence, wisdom, and direction as we read
4. Savor the relationship you have with Him through Christ
5. Practice what he teaches you
Its usually easy for us to take God's protection for granted. We seldom take notice or thank God when our car doesn't break down, our cloths don't rip off, or our tolls don't break. The people of Israel also failed to take notice, it seems, for they didn't even notice that in 40 years of wandering in the wilderness, their cloths didn't wear out and their feet didn't blister or swell. Thus, they did not remember to give thanks to God for these blessings. What has been working well for you? What has been giving you good service? What has been lasting for a long time without breaking down or apart? Remember to thank God for these quiet blessings. "When you have eaten your fill, be sure to praise the Lord your God for the good land He has given you." Deut 8:10
In times of plenty, we often take credit for our prosperity and become proud that our own hard work and cleverness have made us rich. It is easy to get so busy collecting and managing wealth that we push God right out of our lives. But it is God who gives us everything we have and it is God who asks us to manage it for Him.
God gives some people the ability to make a lot of money. Moses told the Israelites, "Remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you the ability to produce wealth." Deut 8:18 People with this ability are good at building a business, making deals or sales, and reaping a profit. If you have this business ability you should be using it for God's glory. How? First, realize your ability came from God and give Him the credit. Second, use your business to serve a need of others and to share your faith with unbelievers. Third, return at least a tithe (10%) of the profit to God as an act of worship. Finally make your goal to be a KINGDOM BUILDER rather than just a Wealth Builder.

Often we ask, What does God expect of me? In 10:12-13 Moses gives a summary that is simple in form and easy to remember. Here are the essentials: 1. Fear God (have reverence for Him) 2. Live in a way that pleases Him. 3. Love him. 4. Serve Him with all your heart and soul. 5. Obey His commands. How often we complicate faith with man-made rules, regulation and requirements. Are you frustrated and burned out from trying hard to please God? Concentrate on His real requirements and find peace. Respect, follow, love, serve and obey!

New math. new philosophy. a new theory. new and improved. It seems as if everyone has something to sell ad they have to make it "new and improved" to make the sale. This approach is used in selling religion too - false gods and phony worship can be packaged as brightly and promoted as aggressively as soap and cereal. This may be one reason why God warns His people about false prophets and teachers. Moses explains how God's people can approach God. Many of these instructions have much to say to all worshipers who care about worshiping God properly.
Moses warned the Israelites against false prophets who encouraged worship of other gods (Deut 13:1-3). New ideas from inspiring people may sound good, but we must judge them by whether or not they are consistent with God's Word. Some people speak the truth while directing people toward God, but others speak persuasively while directing followers toward themselves. It is even possible to say the right words but still lead people in the wrong direction. False prophets are still around today. The wise person will carefully test ideas against the truth of God's Word.
When people claim to speak for God today, check them in these areas: Are they telling the truth? Is their focus on God? Are their words consistent with what you already know to be true? When you hear a new, attractive idea, examine it carefully before getting too excited.

Examine your experiences and extract the lessons you have learned.
Review you life and think about how it has shaped you. Moses told the Israelites, "remember today what you have learned about the Lord through your experiences with him." Deut 11:2. Forgotten experiences are worthless; that's a good reason to keep a spiritual journal.

"Never sacrifice sick or defective cattle, sheep or goats to the Lord your God, for He detests such gifts." 17:1 - The fact that this command was included probably indicated that some Israelites were sacrificing imperfect or deformed animals to God. Then, as now, it is difficult and expensive to offer God our best (the first part of what we earn). It is always tempting to shortchange God because we think we won't get caught. But our giving shows our real priorities. When we give God the leftovers, it is obvious that He is not at the center of our lives. Give God the honor of having first claim on your money, time and talents.