Day 120 - Josh 1 & Psalm 120

 Julie

"Only be strong and courageous." This was the ultimate theme of the chapter and something that we should repeat every day. It should remind us that God is with us wherever we go.

Psalm 120 is a lament that seems to be asking for God's help in the midst of what this person is experiencing. They are a peaceful person, but they seem to be living in the midst of a struggle.

 

Michelle

I felt the same.  This passage was about them being reminded by Joshua that God commands them to be strong and courageous and that he will be with them wherever they go, and that they are to obey the law given to them, and if so they will be successful wherever they go.  Do not be afraid or discouraged.  This seems to come up alot.  Do not be afraid, God is with you.  

I agree, it's about someone in distress surrounded by deceit.  Seems familiar in a way, there are many who only want peace yet are surrounded by those who prefer to war against everyone and everything. 

Day 119 - Psalm 119

Julie

Today's psalm was interesting and very long. It is a continued praise for all God does, but was written in 22 stanzas. Each stanza follows the 22 letters of the Hebrew alphabet. I couldn't really tell the signficance of that, although I am sure that there is one.  

 

Michelle

This is a very long psalm.  But it seems to be praise for God and for each it's stating that this person is keeping Gods decrees and commands even when they are being persecuted or slandered.  The accompanying book says of this psalm that is it an alphabetic acrostic, eight lines of poetry for each letter of the Hebrew alphabet.  It also states is a celebration of the law.

Day 118 - Psalm 118

 Julie

This is another powerful Psalm that is rich with words we have heard many times in our lives. This is a psalm that could be prayed daily as a reminder to us that in the midst of anything that we are experiencing God is there to handle it for us and to take care of us. Remember that "This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." And, "Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!" I feel like Psalm 118 is one that I would put into practice and use in prayer for myself to find peace and comfort in the love and faithfulness of God.

 

Michelle

This psalm seems to be one of giving thanks to the Lord.  The devotional for this psalm talks about time.  The fact that we hurry through life and have little time for all the things we did as kids, or the things our elders did when we were growing up.  We are constantly saying there's not enough time and in our quest to save time we are losing something.  We don't take the time for the things that are important to us.  We don't take time to live.  So today and everyday, think of something that takes a bit of extra time and do it.  For yourself, your neighbor, a family member, a friend.  Do it for the Lord.  Don't wait for another time.  Rejoice in this day and be glad!   

Day 117 - Deuteronomy 34 & Psalm 117

 Julie

This is actually where Moses dies, and it's said that he is the last prophet of his kind. Where God speaks directly to him and allows him to perform all of the signs and wonders that he did. 

While this psalm is short is powerful in it's words reminding us that God's faithfulness remaines forever. We must praise the Lord!

 

Michelle

What stood out to me was the end that spoke of Moses being the last of this type of prophet that knew God face to face.  I wonder why that is.  Is there no one since that God could or would trust to take on that role?  There is a devotional attached to this chapter.  It speaks of leaving a legacy and Moses faithfully serving God for 40 years and leading a nation out of bondage.  NO matter your situation in life or the gifts you've been given, you can pray for those that will come after you.  You can leave a legacy asking God to bless and guide those that follow you to impact the world for Christ.  

 The psalm is a short one but powerful all the same.  It's simply saying to Praise the Lord, for his great love and faithfulness endures forever.

Day 116 - Deuteronomy 31:30 - 33 & Psalm 116

 Julie

This is where Moses dies and he sings a song that basically tells them that they need to trust in God and not fall and again explains all that can and will happen if they do. He sings songs to each of his children. 

This is a psalm of love and praise to the Lord, this would something great to pray when we are praising him for all he does.

 

Michelle

Moses seems to be reminding the people yet again of all God has done up to now and all he will continue to do if they keep their covenant with God.  Moses then goes on to bless each of the tribes.   

The psalm seems to be showing that when he was in peril he called out to the Lord and the Lord answered and saved him.  That if we call out to the Lord he will be there for us, we need only turn to him in all times of need or otherwise should be praising. 

Day 115 - Deuteronomy 31: 1-29 & Psalm 115

 Julie

Two things stood out in this reading that I think are important to remember. One, 6 ^lBe strong and courageous. Do not fear or be in dread of them, ^mfor it is the LORD your God who goes with you. ⁿHe will not leave you or forsake you.” This is something that I think we should carry with us every day and remember, especially in light of the next thing I think is important. Moses warns them that they will fall, 29 For I know that after my death ^gyou will surely act corruptly and turn aside from the way that I have commanded you. And ^hin the days to come ⁱevil will befall you, because you will do what is evil in the sight of the LORD, ^jprovoking him to anger through the work of your hands.” I think at this point we know that we are weak and through fear or mislead desire that we can act in a way that is unpleasing to God, but I thought it was interesting that Moses told them that they would do it, but has already given them the way back.

This psalm is a prayer of blessing for us all. This is something that could be prayed for ourselves or for others.

 

Michelle

I was kind of taken aback by the fact that God knows that the people will rebel yet again.  I do appreciate that he is preparing Joshua and the priests for this and have given them instruction for it.  But at first it made me feel like God has little faith in the people as well.  I realize God sees and knows all, but when I first read it I felt bad, like if he doesn't have faith in me how am I to have faith in myself and follow God as instructed.  We as a people are weak and are easily led astray and I think when there are many it is harder to maintain that faith in the group.  People so easily are led to the dark side of thinking and we want immediate results which I think in that time they expected as well.  We have to remember that God works in the proper time and not our time table.  

The psalm seems to be denouncing the gods of other nations and reminding the people that they should put their trust in God.  Give God praise. 

Day 114 - Deuteronomy 29 - 30 & Psalm 114

 Julie

Today's reading moved into repentence and forgiveness should anyone fall. I think this helps explain it all, "when you turn to the Lord your God with all your heat and with all your soul." If we can remember to do that in all things then we can be forgiven if we fall.

This psalm is reminding us the power that God has over everything.

 

Michelle

The passage started with the renewal of the covenant and again going over that you should follow all God's commands and decrees for a prosperous life or you will suffer and be scattered.  I agree it did refer to repenting and turning back to the Lord and his commands and following them again and being forgiven, not in those words exactly.  The last section stood out to me as it's title is "The offer of Life or Death", and it says to me that this is our choice.  We either choose life with God or death without.  So as with everything he is giving us a choice.  We can choose Life and to follow God.  

I agree this shows Gods power over everything.   

I had to come back to this one and comment as I read a devotional in my bible relating to this passage.  There's a story in it of a historian who wrote in his autobiography about his house keeper.  He had a wearying day and asked her to hold all his calls while he had a nap.  While he was napping the President Lyndon Johnson called to speak with him.  She said she would not disturb him as he was sleeping and told her not to.  Even after the President told her to wake him she did not.  Her response, "I work for him, not you".  It goes on the say that when he returned the call, the President could not control his pleasure in the situation and stated that he wanted her to work in the white house.  The lesson is that his instructions were clear and she followed them to the letter.  Obedience.  As when God gives commandment to the nation of Israel, he is clear.  Their job was simply to obey.  The verses it refers to I don't even remember reading but went back and read them again and it really moved me.  Verse 11-20.  God reminds the people of what he has done for their behalf and reassures them that obedience is not out of their reach, the standards are not impossibly high or too low, and that he has even written it on their hearts.  Their response is only to obey.  The final question in this is "Do you listen to the voice of your Master/Creator?" 

Day 113 - Deuteronomy 27 & 28 & Psalm 113

 Julie

Today's reading was mainly the curses that would be places on the people if they did not follow the rule of God. Makes you wonder if when we are going through some of these types of things if we are being punished for something we have done wrong or if God is testing our faithfulness.

Psalm 113 is the direct opposite of the above chapters. We are praising the Lord for saving us from some of those types of things that he curses us for...so again my question...

 

Michelle

This passage really had me thinking about things going on in today's world.  It did first go thru reminding everyone they needed to follow God's commands and continue to worship him as instructed or there would be curses on them.  And then it spoke of many curses that would come upon them.  But some of the things talked about at the end made me wonder if these have come upon people of this time.  Or some of the last few generations of people as we have strayed further and further from God's commands.  I wonder if we are still here because there are still many that strive to stay faithful to God and the instruction given and that they are still trying to teach others the way, so as a whole we as God's people are still fighting to stay connected and not be cursed and wiped off the earth.  

The psalm is one of praise.  It seems short in comparison to most of the others.    

Day 112 - Deuteronomy 26 & Psalm 112

 Julie

Today's reading was just on the firstfruits and tithing, and all I could really see what how to tithe with the firstfruits. Not sure if I missed something...

One verse stood out to me in today's psalm and I think that it resonates with some of what we have been studying in our devotional this week. " He is not ^tafraid of bad news; his ^uheart is firm, ^vtrusting in the LORD."  I don't know if you all see what I did in this, but I think that this one has a lot to say about being afraid to the point that we don't listen or trust.

 

Michelle

This passage talked of first fruits and tithing, but what I found interesting was the part that talked of giving a portion at a specified time to the Levites, foreigners and the fatherless and widowed.  Allowing for them them to be taken care of as has been instructed previously.  It was a reminder that we are to help those that need it or that cannot take care of themselves.  

 That is a good point you make.  I think you are right that our fear drives us away from trusting in the Lord with all our heart.  It says surely the righteous will never be shaken, which leads to this as well.  As long as we are faithful and trust in God.    

Day 111 - Deuteronomy 24-25 & Psalm 111

 Julie

I don't really know what to say about today's readings either. These laws seem very specific and I wonder how and why they are said the way they are.

This psalm is another of praise to the Lord for all of his works, but also a reminder that fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.

 

Michelle

I found a couple things interesting in today's passage.  It started with the certificate of divorce, which I didn't think was allowed really.  But it is not good for the woman no matter the circumstances.  The rest of the reading again seems to be guiding them in good character.  There are some things that don't make alot of sense but might for the time they lived in.  I'm just not relating it all to today.

The psalm seems to be mainly about praising God and gives examples of all he has done. 

Day 110 - Deuteronomy 23 & Psalm 110

 Julie

Today's reading is a bit strange...I guess. There were some strange laws or at least what seemed to be strange laws, but made sense at the time with what types of things might have been going on. In reading some of the explanations of the verses there were a lot of assumptions made about why things were being said the way that there were and referencing things that were going on at the time that did not fit the law of God.

Because I did not completely understand this Psalm I read the explanation as well. It's a royal psalm looking forward to the coming of Jesus.

 

Michelle

These seem to be laws about various things that come along with behavioral actions.  It's interesting that there are such specific things listed.   Things like not becoming a prostitute or charging interest.  These things seem to be  guiding them to be of good character basically.  Or that is what it seems like to me.

I do not really understand this psalm today.  It seems to be saying the Lord will or is with you. 

Day 109 - Deuteronomy 21-22 & Psalm 109

 Julie

Today's reading started out ok and the first chapter really asks for trust in God. Chapter 22 was hard to read or understand. I know that the times were different, but some of what was said was just really hard to wrap my head around today.

Psalm 109 is another lament that is asking for help from someone being treated unjustly. 

 

Michelle

Some of these laws I find interesting.  The first one is about atonement for an unsolved murder which gives instruction for it.  The next one is about marrying a captive woman which at the end it speaks of letting her go if you are not pleased with her, which I find strange.  The right of the firstborn makes sense.  Then the rebellious son comes next and they stoned people for alot of things back then.  Being a rebellious child  was a dangerous thing.  It went on to speak of returning lost things to their owner or holding them till the owner comes looking if they are not known.  This just seems to be a courtesy.  Marriage violations was interesting as well.  It does sound like at this point they are allowed to take many wives and there are some parts that talk of displeasure with the wife and what is allowed and not.  I'm not sure how to relate some of these things to life now.

The psalm sounds like he is asking God to oppose his accusers and for their curses to be brought back on them.  He is asking for God to protect him and bring him safely out of his situation.

Day 108 - Deuteronomy 19-20 & Psalm 108

 Julie

The reading today was laws concerning warfare and refuge cities. I probably shouldn't have been, but I was a bit amused by the way they explained accidentally killing someone. To be perfectly honest this seemed pretty straight forward and the only thing that really stood was the reminder of an eye for an eye. 

This psalm was praising God some more for his steadfast love and asking for help in dealing with their foes. 

 

Michelle

I can see the humor in the way they explain accidental murder.  The passages did make you think about a few things.  For instance, in the refuge cities portion it was interesting when they spoke about the avenger of death.  I think I said this before but was this a specific person that was given this job?  Were they tasked to go around searching for those that killed people or committed crimes that deserved death as a punishment?  It did give the reminder of an eye for an eye, however it seems our justice system has changed significantly from this.  The other thing that stood out was in the warfare passage it spoke of not having fear when going to war as God would be going before you and would be with you.  It also stated if there were those that had committed to something before going and had not fulfilled it that they should be allowed to go home, or those that were scared to go home so they didn't change the demeanor of the others.  I found that interesting.  It kind of speaks to having faith in God again as we should rely on him for everything.

The psalm sounds like David feels like God has left them and he is asking for his aid.  There is praise as well as he states he will praise God and to please give them triumph.

 

 

Day 107 - Deuteronomy 16:18 - 18 & Psalm 107

 Julie

Today's reading talks about those that oversee the laws and ensure that people are convicted of wrongdoing. We were meant to be judged on not following the laws, but it was never meant to be as perverse as it is today. All that God says about not taking bribes and not perverting justice seems to be lost on most people these days. I know that it sounds naive of me to say that I wish that we could just trust people to follow the rules, but people seem to be more drawn to the dark side more than the light.

Two things stood out to me in today's psalm (probably because they were repeated a few times), "Then they cried out to the Lord in their trouble, and he delivered them from their destruction," and "Let them thank the Lord for his steadfast love, for his wondrous works to the children of man." Both of these verses were repeated multiple times throughout Psalm 107 and I think that right at the core these were the point of the psalm. The rest was an explanation, but at the heart of it we should cry out to the Lord in trouble, but we should also thank him for his steadfast love.

Michelle 

This passage is going over more rules for the way people should live and act and how they are to treat others, along with law and judgements to be provided thru a judicial system set in place by God. It does seem that justice and the judicial system has been perverted since biblical times. It talks of purging evil and how you are to handle it. A part I found interesting was when it spoke of the king and how he is not to accumulate many things for himself and he is to read gods word everyday and not consider himself better than his fellow people. He is to be impartial to one side or the other. 

So this psalm I found interesting.  It speaks throughout of giving thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and wonderful deeds for mankind.  But it also speaks to all the things they went thru.  It speaks of their rebellious ways, when they were prisoners in chains, when they were in the desert hungry and thirsty.  But then it also speaks of how God brought them through all of it.  The end is the part that stands out most.  “Then their numbers decreased and they were humbled by oppression, calamity, and sorrow...Let the one who is wise heed these things and ponder the loving deeds of the Lord.”  So this saying comes to mind. Don’t laugh. When you get too big for your britches. This passage reminded me of this saying.  They were getting into trouble or thought too much of themselves and needed to be brought down to size, or humbled. So this is a reminder to be thankful for what you have or what has been done for you and to not get a big head about it. 

Day 106 - Deuteronomy 14:3 - 16:17 & Psalm 106

 Julie

Today's passage talked about what things they are allowed to eat and it brought to light a couple of things, why the Jewish people don't eat pork (because it is prescribed as such in this chapter), and possibly why the Hindus don't eat cows. I know that they worship them, but while it says that you can eat anything that has a cloven hoof and chews the cud, it does not specifically mention cows. Not sure if that really means anything, but it does stand out. I wonder where we moved away from some of these rules about what we can and cannot eat. By these rules, we should not be eating things like shrimp, lobster, clams, etc... Christians also don't seem to continue to celebrate Passover as those that are Jewish do, although it is prescribed that we should do such here. I wonder, again, when that changed or if we have chosen not to do those things. Maybe something will come to light as we move through the NT. 

Psalm 106 is considered a historic psalm and is again praising God for his steadfast love, and for all that he has done for the people of Israel.

Michelle

I also wonder about when our eating changed or if it ever did. Should we still be refraining from these unclean animals and sea creatures?  I guess we will find out as we go along. It also makes me wonder if the Jewish faith does not follow the New Testament. This passage mostly is just reiterating the laws given to the people and how they are to follow it. I find the canceling debts and freeing servants sections interesting. I understand the Passover but we do not celebrate it as it says here. But should we be?

This psalm starts with something that stood out to me. Give thanks to the lord. Blessed are those who act justly, who always do what is right. I was talking with a co worker this week about people being a-holes and questioning why they can’t just do what is right. It’s easier than taking the wrong or evil path and they leads to more challenges. The rest of the psalm seems to be going thru what happened to the chosen people after God saved them in Egypt. The last part stands out to and reminds me of a song I like. Save us lord our god and gather is from the nations that we may give thanks to your holy name and glory in your praise. Praise be to the lord the god of Israel from everlasting to everlasting. Let all the people say, “Amen!”  Praise the Lord. This reminded me of this song that pulls me when I hear it called “Amen” from Kinf and Country.  

Day 105 - Deuteronomy 12 - 14:2 & Psalm 105

 Julie

Today's passage was a more in-depth explanation of the rules that they need to follow. Specifically focusing on tithes, offerings and worship, and on worship idols. Moses is telling them in detail how they need to act once they cross over into the new land.

Psalm 105 is a hymn thanking God for getting his people out of Israel and explaining how he did it. It's praising God for providing for his people.

 

Michelle

Today speaks of proper ways of worship and not being enticed by the words of others to learn about other gods or to worship other gods.  There is a reminder at the beginning of 14 saying you are the children of the Lord your God and are his treasured possession.  

I am wondering if the land of Ham is Noah's son.  Isn't he the one that left Noah after they found land?  Or am I only remembering this from a movie about Noah.  I am not sure.   

Day 104 - Deuteronomy 10-11 & Psalm 104

 Julie

Today's reading seems to be a repeat of yesterday's as well as a reiteration of what Moses had to do with the Ten Commandments. It also serves as another reminder that they need to remain steadfast in their faith and trust in God, not to let themselves be deceived and led astray, and that they needed to make sure to teach their children all of these rules and statutes and commandments. 

Today's psalm is celebrating all that the Lord has provided and all of the beauty in the world. It is another praise to him for all he does.

 

Michelle

This appears to be a continued reminder from Moses of what God has done for the people up to know and that they need to continue to praise God and follow his commands in order to prosper. 

A couple of things stand out in this psalm.  It talks of nature and how God takes care of the animals and the earth.  And then at the end it says "My my meditation be pleasing to him, as I rejoice in the Lord.  But may sinners vanish from the earth and the wicked be no more".  I think at times we all pray this way.  That the wicked will be swiftly and harshly dealt with.  I quite enjoyed this psalm with all the nature references and reminders of that God provides for all his creatures.  

Day 103 - Deuteronomy 8-9 & Psalm 103

 Julie

There was quite a bit that really stood out in today's reading, but I think this passage is important to begin with; 

2 And you shall remember the whole way that the LORD your God has led you ^wthese forty years in the wilderness, that he might humble you, ^xtesting you ^yto know what was in your heart, ^zwhether you would keep his commandments or not. 3 And he humbled you and ^alet you hunger and ^bfed you with manna, which you did not know, nor did your fathers know, that he might make you know that ^cman does not live by bread alone, but man lives by every word¹ that comes from the mouth of the LORD. 4 ^dYour clothing did not wear out on you and your foot did not swell these forty years. 5 Know then in your heart that, ^eas a man disciplines his son, the LORD your God disciplines you. 6 So you shall keep the commandments of the LORD your God by walking in his ways and by fearing him. 

A lot of this passage should sound familiar as it is used frequently and as a constant reminder of our need to trust in God. However, putting it into the context of the time, this is Moses telling them why they wandered for 40 years and that it was intentional. While God did save them from their slavery and oppression, he wanted to make sure that they would believe and trust. Moses also points out all of the things God did for them. It's as if this is his way of telling them that they need to trust as they are moving into the promised land. He goes on in Chapter 9 to tell them what he sacrificed and did for them in order to keep God from basically smiting them all. By telling them all of these things and explaining in detail he is saying that they need to remember all that God has done, all that Moses has done, and that they are now responsible for their own actions and if they do not live up to God's commandments that he will remove them from their land. 

I don't think that this has changed much over time. I think all of this still holds true today. Our faith is constantly tested and when we fail those tests we are shown that and when we pass them we are given what is desired. God is also asking us to follow his commandments and when we as a people are not doing that then he is going to remove us from what he has given us.

Psalm 103 is a great fit for our reading today and really exemplifies how we should praise God for things that Moses is talking about in the two chapters above. As I was reading this Psalm I was singing 10,000 Reasons, the song that was obviously written from this Psalm. Which is a great reminder to worship him for all of the blessing that he give us. 

 

Michelle

I found this reading eye opening today.  What stands out is when Moses is speaking to the people about driving out the other people of the land and tells them not to be conceited basically, saying don't say it is because of your righteousness because that is not the reason.  The Lord is driving them out because of their wickedness, not because of you and your righteousness or integrity, as you are a stiff-necked people still.  He goes on to remind them that they quickly turn from the Lord and provides examples of such and reminds them that they are to stay focused on the Lord and all he does for them.  

The psalm does appear to be the inspiration of that song.  A reminder to praise God. 

Day 102 - Deuteronomy 6-7 & Psalm 102

 Julie

Today's reading gives the greatest commandment which is to love God above all else. It also reiterates some of the other commandments and explains why they are the chosen people and how they need to act, but ultimately I think we were supposed to see that we should love God above all else.

Today's Psalm is an individual lament which is said to be suited for someone whose troubles seem to be unexplained. Praying this psalm puts the singer's eyes to the Lord and shows their faithfulness in his works in their troubles. 

 

Michelle

This does seem to be going into great detail regarding that commandment.  What I find interesting is that they are to destroy every single person no matter age or gender in the land he is bringing them to.  It kind of seems like it's saying leave all other things and beliefs behind and follow me only, which comes from the part about if you leave any alive they will become a snare to you.  At first I thought it was kinda awful that they are just going in and killing everyone.  I get the obedience part of that as God is instructing them to do something and they are meant to obey, it just seems odd as one of the commandments is though shall not kill.  Maybe that is why I am conflicted by this.  

I am not sure what I am getting from this psalm.  The description says "a prayer of an afflicted person who has grown weak and pours out a lament before the Lord".   

Day 101 - Deuteronomy 4:44 - 5 & Psalm 101

 Julie

Today's reading was Moses reminding them what he did for them on the mount and repeated the Ten Commandments to them. He continues on to remind them that they will be fruitful in the new land if they will continue the commandments that have been set forth for them. He reminds them that things will go well for them and they will live in that land for a long time if they follow God's commandments.

Today's Psalm is what they call a royal psalm and is one that someone in power would pray to show the type of leader/ruler that they are or will be. It would be great if all they all thought like this.

 

Michelle

Today's reading seems a reminder to the people of the commandments God has set forth.  While I remember these from childhood, I got a different feeling when reading them today.  I find myself reflecting on my own life and wondering if I have followed these in a way that would be pleasing to God.  

It would be good for our leadership to live and follow in this way.  Something that stood out to me in this psalm is verse 5, "Whoever slanders their neighbor in secret, I will put to silence; whoever has haughty eyes and a proud heart, I will not tolerate."  Alot of other parts stood out but this one made me go back and read it again.  Not sure why though. I did look up haughty to make sure I understood the definition and it reads, "arrogantly superior and disdainful".  

Day 100 - Deuteronomy 4:1-43 & Psalm 100

 Congratulations!! We have made 100 days so far. If you are like me some of the days have been challenging and I am sure you probably didn't want to or felt like you did not get much, but we persevered and continued. On to the next 100 days. 

Julie

Today's reading is Moses reminding the people of all of the laws and what God has done for them before they move into the promised land. It's like a final reminder since he will not be going with them and can't be there to hold them accountable. So he is trying to do that now and persuade them to hold onto that accountability. I think he understands the weakness of men and that they can be either easily persuaded or quick to say that God is not there for them...as they have before.

Psalm 100 is a prayer of giving thanks and today might be a good day to pray this Psalm as God had done so many things for us and we have spent all of this time in his word so far . 

Michelle

Love the enthusiasm!  I will admit I have struggled thru this a little and have had to catchup some weeks. Like this week cuz it’s now the 15th and I am behind again. I am glad we committed to do this and it has been very eye opening in some ways and has given me a lot to think about and reflect on and I think I’ve grown a bit. I love getting other perspectives cuz sometimes you just don’t see it or understand it. 

This does appear as you say to be Moses trying to get the people to remember and hold onto that accountability. I think you’re right in that he knows man is weak. It’s funny you said this as the part that stood out today was verses 25-31 that speak of if they stray again that they will be struck down and scattered and only a few will survive among the nations.  It made me wonder if that is what happens going forward.  If you think about where we are today it would appear that this is the case.  But that those who seek the Lord with all their heart and soul will find him as he is merciful and will not abandon us.  He didn’t abandon these people even with all the things that have happened, he remained with them just tested and punished when necessary but he God remained with them the whole time, whether they knew it or not.  

I agree this is a good one to be today.  Praise to God that we have had this time in the word and all the things he does for us.  

Day 99 - Deuteronomy 2-3 & Psalm 99

 Julie

Deuteronomy 2-3 is still an overview or a reiteration of the 40 years of getting to the promised land and some of the lands that were defeated in the process. The one thing that stands out from this is that Moses is not allowed to enter the promised land. I know that it has been mentioned multiple times, but this time it really seemed to speak more since he talks about how he pled to God to be able to enter. However, God denies him still due to the unfaithfulness of the peoples that he was leading. This could be a lesson for those in charge that they take on the sins of those they lead.

Psalm 99 is another hymn that focuses on praising the Lord for how he has taken care of the Israelites during their journey. It also mentions Moses and Aaron and their connection to God, but that God also avenged their wrongdoings. 

Michelle

I think you’re right. This seems a lesson in leadership. I do recall the time when Moses and Aaron didn’t do exactly as God asked and this seemed to be the catalyst to this outcome which then increased every time the people grumbled. It’s interesting that he is still pleading with God to allow him to enter. Being a leader is hard. Harder than most people think. And to be a good one it takes a lot of mental fortitude and strength to get people to follow you. You must be honest and open with them and willing to listen while still leading them in the way they should go. It’s sometimes exhausting so I can see why Moses would have faltered at times and understand that God was pushing him and testing him along the way as well. I didn’t see that before but understand it more now. 

I agree with your assessment of the psalm. It seems as if this is after Moses and Aaron are gone and it’s directed at the next generation. 

Day 98 - Deuteronomy 1 & Psalm 98

 Julie

Deuteronomy 1 is a speech that Moses gives the Israelites and it reiterates some of the things that God has put into place for the Israelites. It also explains again why they will not all be going into the promise land. Numbers ended with some of this first chapter, but he tells them again why they are in the situation that they are in, and reminds them that they brought this upon themselves after showing their lack of trust and faith and God regardless of what he had done for them. One thing that I think that is important to remember about about that or to think about is that sometimes God put us through trials, and he is doing that for a reason. We need to show faith during these trials and trust in Gods wisdom and direction and we will be rewarded in the end. People sometimes think that they are going through trials because they have done something wrong, but that is not always the case and sometimes it's a test to gauge whether we are being truthful or not. 

Psalm 98 is about singing songs of Praise to God for the salvation that he has given and for what he has done and provide for us. I think it's interesting that the last three Psalms have ended talking about the righteous or righteousness and how God will judge based on that and other things...

Michelle

I agree with your interpretation.  I think our faith and trust is tested on a regular basis.  Maybe because of this earlier situation.  The fact that we should be turning to god and in good and hard times seems to be a reminder here.  I was confused at first as to why we are rehashing the last chapter but then realized this is a new generation of people descended from the original group. 

I noticed that same thing. There’s been many references to judging the world in righteousness and the people with equity. Which leads one to believe that we should seek the righteous path and ask for direction to get there. Always turning to God for that direction.

Day 97 - Psalm 97k

I will go back to the accompanying book and read thru the remaining info on this last chapter as I feel I prob missed a lot being unfocused this month. I’ll add to this post later tonight. 

This psalm seems to be another similar to yesterday’s. Some things that stand out to me, vs 7 which seems to say again there should be no other gods before him, those who boast in idols should be worshiping God instead. The end of this psalm reminded me of something I read recently. Vs 10-12 made me think of this thing that said some of the poorest people are also the happiest people. I’m not sure why it made me think of that cuz that’s not really what it’s saying but made me think again about contentment and being thankful for what God has provided us. “Light shines on the righteous and joy on the upright heart, Rejoice and praise his holy name”. 

Julie

I am not sure I can say much more than you have said...knowing his care and protection in our lives helps us to receive that joy and contentment. Being faithful followers and praising him for all he does for us. I think that is my addition. 

Day 96 - Psalm 96

 Julie

Today's Psalm is a hymn of  praise for God and explains that all types of people should praise God and be thankful for what he has provided and done for us. It is also reiterates that he is the one true God and that idols are false gods. The entire Psalm leads up to the last line "He will judge the world in righteousness, and the peoples in his faithfulness." The entire Psalm is a reminder of what how one needs to act in order to show their righteousness and faithfulness to God.

Michelle 

Your interpretation of this psalm seems spot on. Sing Gods praises, everyone should praise and glorify him, share this knowledge amongst the people, and God will judge in righteousness and the people in faithfulness. 

Day 95 - Numbers 36 & Psalm 95

Julie

This chapter is talking about the marriage of female heirs and this is where a family of daughters has asked that they get to inherit their family lands instead of it being taken from them. Although it's allowed, they must marry someone from their own clan, because while they inherit it once they marry it is combined with their husbands land. So part of the directive for them to be able to keep it was to marry within their own clan. I don't know that I really see where we are going here...

Psalm 95 is talking about the clan that we just finished reading about in Numbers and while it is asking to sing praises to God, God is also reminding us that he doesn't suffer fools. We need to remember to trust and not whine because we are not getting our way in our time. We can truly sing his praises if we do not truly believe. 

Michelle

I’m not sure where this is going either. I understand that the daughters asked to maintain their fathers inheritance and they want these lands kept within their respective clans but this also sounds like they are marrying family which seems strange. I had this co-worker from India and he told me this is common amongst a very prominent family name even to this day. That they only ever marry another in the same family name in order to preserve it. 

The psalm does seem to be a reminder as you say. We need to remember all God has done for us and given us and stop whining and complaining as they did. We need to show obedience and contentment in all he has given us. Be thankful for the love he gives. It is ok to ask God for things but we need to make sure we aren’t constantly whining about it. 

Day 94 - Number 34 - 35 & Psalm 94

 Michelle

Before I get started today, I just have to say something.  This past month has been emotionally trying and stressful.  Letting go of alot of mom was hard enough, but with all the things going on with family members and family-in-law, it's been tough to keep focused and I am not sure I got all I should have out of the readings.  I just pray that as we move thru these stressful and emotional situations, that God is with us and that he guides us to make the right decisions and to let us know when and where we need to be.  These are the times that it is so hard to be this far from everyone and it weighs on me emotionally.  So I ask God to keep us connected to each other and to keep us communicating.  I also ask that God help us stay focused and turn to him in our time of need, helping us to be willing and able to give our stresses to him in order to help us keep moving.   In Jesus name, Amen.

So chapter 34 was relatively short, describing the boundaries for the cities and tribes.  35 starts with setting boundaries for the Levites and their pasture lands.  It then goes into Cities of Refuge, which seems to be just for murderers, or at least unintentional murders.  It almost sounds like their "jail" as they are not to leave these cities for a specified amount of time, although that time is relative to either their trial or the death of the high priest.  It speaks of the "avenger of death", which sounds like someone that has been appointed the executioner and the way it's described is relative to the saying "an eye for an eye".  This chapter sounds like the beginning of how our justice system is structured.  Something that stands out at the end of this chapter for some reason is vs 34, "Do not defile the land where you live and where I dwell...".  I'm not sure why but these feels important to me and makes me think that we as a people may be doing this today.  While we don't all live in the promised land and that may be what is being referenced here, we do not all take care of what we are given.  There are many that trash and don't care for what they are given, when we should be thankful for what we have no matter how much or how little that is.  It seems to be a lesson in contentment, or instruction in that we be thankful and care for what we are given and be content in what the Lord has provided.  

The psalms seems to start out questioning God regarding wicked people being prosperous or jubilant, and then seems to be reminding the people, doesn't God see all that you are doing and he will judge you accordingly.  Blessed is the one who rejects the wicked ways and who takes a stand against the evildoers.  God is there to support you when you feel you are failing.  The verse that really stands out this morning is 19, "When anxiety was great within me, your consolation brought me joy".  This has been true for me from time to time.  When I have turned to God asking him to aid me in my stressful times, or when I ask for him to take the thoughts and feelings I am having away from me so that it calms my mind, it has helped and he has done it.  At times, it takes me repeating this prayer over and over for it to work, but that could be me not allowing myself to give it up in the way I should.  But once I do then my mind becomes less foggy.  It's hard to explain and harder to do in the moment. 

Julie

I completely understand where you are Michelle and I struggled with a lot of the reading this month because it felt like it was hard to focus a lot. I like and appreciate your insight on this reading because I didn't really feel like I got what I needed to out of it, but that makes perfect sense. Thank you for the prayer I believe that we all need that right now.

I agree with your assessment of the Psalm and do the same thing you do with the verse that you picked out. It is sometimes hard to let those things go and it takes a lot of prayer to move past and let go and realize that we are not in control. I also wonder if this is not a time in the world where you should be praying this Psalm, because it seems that the wicked are taking things over more and more every day.

Day 93 - Numbers 32-33 & Psalm 93

Julie

My focus is very bad this morning and these two chapters I am not sure I really read. They just seemed informational and not really much more. It explains their move into Canaan and what happened a long the way.

Psalm 93 is thanking God for his reign over everything that he created.

 

Michelle

So I took some time this morning and went back to read the summary at the beginning of this book in my Bible and also the accompanying book.  I have had to play catch-up this week in my studies and did not do this in the beginning.  It says that this book is named such as it's the 2 countings of the Hebrew people.  The first was to organize the camps by their tribal clans, afterward they were preparing to enter the promised land only to balk in fear.  They grumbled and disbelieved so the Lord took them on a 40 year journey of obedience and defiance.  The second counting was of the next generation which is considered a faithful generation.  I'm going to go back thru the accompanying book as there is more info that might help us understand this book better.

Chapter 32 has some tribes asking Moses if they can stay on this side of the river as the land is good for their flocks.  They end up having to agree to keeping their covenant and fighting for the Lord on the other side and getting the people to the promised land before it's agreed they can stay there.  33 shares with us the geographical info on their journey to this point.  It also says the Lord tells them if they do not drive out all the people they will become thorns and give them problems and then the Lord will smite them the way he planned to smite those people.  It's a warning to follow his instruction, or a lesson in obedience yet again.

The psalm is a short one that speaks of the Lord being mighty. 

Day 92 - Numbers 30-31 & Psalm 92

 Julie

I am struggling with what to say about today's reading. Chapter 30 made some sense and I understand that when we make these vows to God that we should follow through with what we say. In chapter 31 I struggle with the way some things are worded. I understand that they went to war and all of the implications with that, but I struggle with the way that the Bible talks about people as property, "take them for yourselves." I'm sure I might be putting to much weight on those words, but I do struggle with that quite a bit. 

Psalm 92 is thanking and praising God and reminding us that we should be doing that day and night. It's also reminding us to start and end the day in prayer. I know that it doesn't say that specifically, but verse 2 seems clear in that you are praying at the beginning and you are praying at the end if you are following this directive.

 

Michelle

I didn't really understand chapter 30 in regards to the vows.  In my bible it didn't say specifically that these were vows to God, but I see in your interpretation that is what they were talking about and that makes more sense.  It is important that we keep our vows to God.  This chapter goes into the oversight of the females in regards to vows and the males in their lives having the final say in regards to their vows.  This goes back to what I said previously about it being a very different time in that females didn't really have a voice or ownership of anything, including their vows it seems.  I'm not sure what to think of chapter 31.  Like you, I don't like the way it seems people are property but this is a part of this time period as well.   I'm not sure if it's meant the way we are reading it.  I can see how it could mean they become your property, or they are enslaved to them.  I wonder if it could be that they are bringing them into their community in order to show them the way of God.  I am not sure how to interpret this.

The psalm seems one of praise to God and what he has done for them.

Day 91 - Numbers 28-29 and Psalm 91

 Julie

Today's reading was listing the offerings, the times for them and what must be offered at those particular times. 

Psalm 91 shows the confidence in God's protection of all types of things that could affect their/our lives. It shows trust that they will make it through.

 

Michelle

Today's reading appears to be Moses going over the offerings and reminding or teaching this generation what needs to be done going forward.  It just seems a reminder because these appear to be the original instructions given to Moses and the people from God.  

The psalm seems to be saying that whomever loves the Lord and believes and trusts in him will be guarded by the Lord.  The end really brings it together I think where it says, "Because he loves me, says the Lord, I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.  He will call on me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him."