Word for the day by Christian Education Forum
THEOLOGICAL EDUCATION: EQUIPPING PEOPLE OF GOD
Deuteronomy 6:1-17
v5-6 Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you, keep them in your heart.
This bible portion gives us a glimpse of God as holy and our only response should be love, honor and worship him in reverence. It also gives a chance to examine ourselves, and to make sure that we are yet to grow in personal holiness. God entrusted Moses to remind Israel of the God's commandment and a warning, in order to teach and equip them well, at a time when they are about enter Canaan. Moses reviews the ten commandments, the Lord gave him and emphasizes the meaning of the first commandment, calling the people to worship the Lord alone. This is the same commandment that Jesus called the greatest of all commandments.(Matt 22:37) God promised Israel of all blessings to become a mighty nation, provided they honor, love and obey all the laws through generations.
It is mandatory for every believer to observe the commands, decrees, and laws the Lord give during the entire journey of life. The voice of the Lord heard in the deepest darkness instills in us confidence and strength to pursue our journey to the promised land. Obedience is not primarily a duty imposed by God, but it is an expression of our covenantal relationship. Lack of a proper sense of direction and commitment will take us to crossroads where we will find ourselves absolutely helpless to choose the right path. So let us listen to the Lord's voice always, in order to be properly equipped to proclaim His Kingdom wherever we are.
PRAYER
Dear Lord, thanks you for all the insights we get from your word. Empower and strengthen us with your spirit, so that we do not falter away from your laws. Help us always to obey you unconditionally, so as to enable us to enjoy your discipleship. In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
I meditate on your precepts and consider your ways. I delight in your decrees. I will not neglect your word. (Psalm 119:15)
Prof.A.G George, Bethel MTC, Mukkolakkal, Thiruvanathapuram
Christian Education Forum, Diocese of NAE of the Mar Thoma Church