Today’s devotion comes from Deuteronomy 12:8-12.
“You shall not do at all what we are doing here today, every man doing whatever is right in his own eyes; for you have not as yet come to the resting place and the inheritance which the LORD your God is giving you. When you cross the Jordan and live in the land which the LORD your God is giving you to inherit, and He gives you rest from all your enemies around you so that you live in security, then it shall come about that the place in which the LORD your God will choose for His name to dwell, there you shall bring all that I command you: your burnt offerings and your sacrifices, your tithes and the contribution of your hand, and all your choice votive offerings which you will vow to the LORD. And you shall rejoice before the LORD your God, you and your sons and daughters, your male and female servants, and the Levite who is within your gates, since he has no portion or inheritance with you.” Deuteronomy 12:8-12.
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Regarding “every man doing whatever is right in his own eyes” in the first verse of today’s Scripture, we can be certainly tempted to do so, particularly when we sense some of God’s direction and some of God’s blessing. We can think in our hearts: “Thank you God, but I do not need you anymore. I know what to do.” But, what does Scripture state?
“7 Do not be wise in your own eyes;
Fear the Lord and turn away from evil.
8 It will be healing to your body
And refreshment to your bones.” Proverbs 3:7-8.
“5 Trust in the Lord with all your heart
And do not lean on your own understanding.
6 In all your ways acknowledge Him,
And He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6.
We can also be tempted to seek first our own kingdom. But, what does Scripture state?
“But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Matthew 6:33.
We can be tempted to rejoice in our decisions and what we have done. But, what does Scripture state?
“8 I will instruct you and teach you in the way which you should go;
I will counsel you with My eye upon you.
9 Do not be as the horse or as the mule which have no understanding,
Whose trappings include bit and bridle to hold them in check,
Otherwise they will not come near to you.
10 Many are the sorrows of the wicked,
But he who trusts in the LORD, lovingkindness shall surround him.
11 Be glad in the LORD and rejoice, you righteous ones;
And shout for joy, all you who are upright in heart.” Psalm 32:8-11.
“For You, O LORD, have made me glad by what You have done,
I will sing for joy at the works of Your hands.” Psalm 92:4.
Reformed Doctrine Daily Devotions 