Day 77

Deuteronomy 21:10-25:19.  “Random Acts of Kindness”

Today’s reading was full of a variety of laws and regulations for Israel to do when they entered the Promised Land.  All of these laws were important for them to remember as they prepared to cross the Jordan River and experience a new beginning.
As I read through this passage, a seemingly insignificant command really jumped out at me.  In Deuteronomy 22:1-4 we see the command to not ignore a neighbor who needs help.  There’s a principle here for helping others that continues to apply today for we see this principle at work in the New Testament as well.  In James 2:15-16 we are told that words of blessing without meeting a real physical need will not accomplish anything.
Then in Matthew 25:31-46, Jesus adds to this principle by saying that when you minister to the needs of others, you are ultimately ministering to the Lord Himself.  And if you ignore these needs, then you are refusing to help the Lord.  Are you willing to help meet other’s needs, or will you be found pretending not to see?

General Questions for each day:
Summarize the day’s Bible passage in your own words.
What thoughts, actions, attitudes or beliefs are addressed in the passage?
How is the Holy Spirit leading you to apply this passage to your life today?

Bible Discussion Guide:

-Why do you think it was important for Moses to deliver the law again to Israel?
-What does that reveal to us about our own need to study God’s Word?
-The March 12th devotional speaks of remembering our life before knowing Christ.  How would you describe your life before you knew Christ?
-What has the new beginning that faith in Christ brought, meant for you?
-The March 13th devotional speaks of receiving the Lord’s discipline.  How have you seen the Lord’s discipline in your life?  
-How has it been a benefit to you?
-What does it mean to live by the grace of God?
-Having been saved by grace, are you now living by a system of works and rules?
-What do you need to change in order to live by grace?
-How has the community of faith been a blessing to you?  
-What is it about being a part of a community that is easy or difficult for you?
-How can forgiveness bring a new beginning?
-How would life be different if we saw everything, including people as being God’s possession?
-How can regular time in the Bible put you in a better position to obey God?  
-Do you agree that we experience a new beginning every time we open God’s Word?  Why or why not?
-Personal application:  How would life be different if we all took the time to help when we see someone in need?