March - Day 16

Deuteronomy 4-5 - Moses emphasized multiple times the importance of obeying completely.  We must realize that partial obedience is disobedience.  The Israelites had to learn to listen, not just hear, but readily receive the commands and truth of God.  They also needed to grow in their understanding, because knowledge without understanding lacks application. Following understanding, they had to choose to respond in obedience. 
- Here we see a theme that is repeated throughout many of the teachings to the national of Israel that is a principle for life.  Generations are affected by sin and obedience.  Our obedience impacts not only our lives, but the trajectory of our family that follows.  If we will stay on the path God has given us to follow, he will bless our obedience. 

Psalm 63 - We need God like a dry and weary land needs water.  God's love is better than life itself.  God will satisfy us better than the richest feast.  Cling to God for help, strength, and refreshing, and joy.  You will find these things as you praise God regardless of your circumstances.

Matthew 26:36-56 - Jesus told the disciples that one of them would betray him and he would be arrested and killed for the sins of many before it happened.  He told them they would all desert him, even though none of them thought they would. He told Peter he would deny him 3 times, but Peter couldn't imagine that happening.  Here Matthew points out the fulfillment of another prophecy from Zechariah 13:7.  Jesus called it.  He said what would happen and it did just as he said it would.

Romans 10 - Israel refused to accept God's way of making them right with him.  They cringed to their own way instead which was through religious behavior and self righteousness.  Only those who confess Jesus as their savior and submit to his authority in their lives, and have put their faith, the full trust of their lives, in the truth of his resurrection will be saved.