Scripture to Read: Exodus 22:18, 23:6, 10–13
Our walk through Exodus 21, 22, and 23 has proven to be enriching, as God has given us many details on how to love our neighbors as ourselves and how to love Him with all of our heart, soul, mind, and strength. The final passages today deal with the worship of God and loving our neighbor. In Exodus 23:6, God gives instructions about making restitution if a fire caused by an individual destroys another person's property. Then, God deals harshly (Exodus 22:18) with anyone who practices sorcery. God knows that the spiritual forces of evil (Ephesians 6:12) are powerful and can cause great harm to us as His creation. So, God does not want anyone even dabbling in the spiritual realm of darkness. Then, in Exodus 23:10–11, God tells the Israelites that they must give the land they sow a rest every seventh year. God also came back and reminded the Israelites about their six-day workweek. God said in Exodus 23:12, “Six days you are to do your work, but on the seventh day you shall cease from labor so that your ox and your donkey may rest, and the son of your female slave, as well as your stranger, may refresh themselves.” Then we have God say this in Exodus 23:13, “Now concerning everything which I have said to you, be on your guard; and do not mention the name of other gods, nor let them be heard from your mouth.” God always wants us on guard (Ephesians 6:10–18) because He knows the spiritual battles we face are real.
Challenge & Application
· What are the truths God taught you today, and how will God’s Truths change you?
· What New Testament Scriptures came to mind as you walked through the devotion today?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!