leaders – Judy in the Sky

Read Matthew 23 – Woe! Woe! Woe! It’s honesty day against the Scribes and Pharisees!

Jesus addresses the crowds, telling them to do what the religious leaders say, but not what they do. “For they do not practice what they preach, ” Jesus explains at the end of :3.

He follows up with seven woe’s against them. Jesus is opening the eyes of the crowd to the legalism that had hardened the hearts of these Scribes and Pharisees. Beloved, may your eyes also be opened to your pastor (priest,bishop,minister or title he goes by). Does he practice what he preaches? Is he a servant and humble?

“The greatest among you shall be your servant. Whoever exalts himself will be humbled and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” :11-12

May these harsh and honest rebukes for those who would use religion against people give you one more reason to celebrate Jesus. Jesus stands righteously, bringing freedom, forgiveness, love and mercy to those who put their faith in him. Jesus is mighty to save! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord. (Matthew 23:39, Psalm 118:26)

Read Deuteronomy 1 – welcome to the 5th book of the bible! You’ll find it between Numbers and Joshua in the Old Testament.

We start off with a call to remember, as Moses instructs the Israelites during the 40th year of what should have been an 11 day journey from Egypt into the Promised Land (:1-3). Early in their Exodus, the Lord commanded them to go in and take possession of the land He was giving to them, but they rebelled because of their fear. The only two that would be permitted to enter would be Joshua and Caleb, as well as the children, who were too young to be held accountable when their parents choose fear over obedience. Now Moses is reminding them of this so they will be prepared once they enter.

As you read, look for Jesus, he spent 40 days in the wilderness being tempted by Satan and He fought him off with God’s Word from Deuteronomy. Look for verses you can use to fight the spiritual forces of evil as you navigate life.

Beloved, Deuteronomy will prepare and remind you to walk closely with the LORD your God. I’m excited for all we will discover.