Today’s devotion comes from Deuteronomy 12:15-27. Here is a link to this Scripture – https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Deuteronomy%2012&version=NASB1995
I quote only the following verses.
“However, you may slaughter and eat meat within any of your gates, whatever you desire, according to the blessing of the LORD your God which He has given you; the unclean and the clean may eat of it, as of the gazelle and the deer. Only you shall not eat the blood; you are to pour it out on the ground like water. You are not allowed to eat within your gates the tithe of your grain or new wine or oil, or the firstborn of your herd or flock, or any of your votive offerings which you vow, or your freewill offerings, or the contribution of your hand. But you shall eat them before the LORD your God in the place which the LORD your God will choose, you and your son and daughter, and your male and female servants, and the Levite who is within your gates; and you shall rejoice before the LORD your God in all your undertakings. Be careful that you do not forsake the Levite as long as you live in your Land.” Deuteronomy 12:15-19.
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What a great way to live out our lives!
God gives us blessings in what we may eat and drink and other things that we may enjoy. God gives us blessings in work to do and words to say. God gives us blessings of worship, recreation, rest, and even retirement.
God provides a place in which we can do certain things like worship.
We should rejoice!
But, we may show too much or too often a sad or stoic or “I am too busy” face and demeanor. Certainly, there are times when we should be sad, stoic, and busy. But, if we routinely show such a demeanor believing that it is more pious and righteous to do so, then there is a problem.
But, there is hope!
Today’s Scripture exhorts us: “you shall rejoice before the LORD your God in all your undertakings.”
“The LORD has done great things for us;
We are glad.” Psalm 126:3.
“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.
“Oh give thanks to the Lord, call upon His name;
Make known His deeds among the peoples.
2 Sing to Him, sing praises to Him;
Speak of all His wonders.
3 Glory in His holy name;
Let the heart of those who seek the LORD be glad.” Psalm 105:1-3.
“Be glad in the LORD and rejoice, you righteous ones;
And shout for joy, all you who are upright in heart.” Psalm 32:11.
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.” Galatians 5:22-23.
Reformed Doctrine Daily Devotions 