Aids to Devotion
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The Israelites recited the Shema daily. This confession of faith, which takes its name from its first word, begins: “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one” (Deuteronomy 6:4).
Take a Break
A friend once asked me, “Why do we follow all the Ten Commandments except the fourth about the Sabbath?” Ironically, this command is the only one that begins with “shamar”
Because You Love Him
Moses' first speech related the history of God's dealings with Israel, which was the first feature of God's covenant with Israel (Deuteronomy 1:6-4:43).
Hearing and Following
Today, people recite and vehemently defend the Scriptures, but often do not practice what they preach.
The Path of Obedience
After 38 years of wandering in the desert, once the ″entire generation of fighting men had perished from the camp″ (Deuteronomy 2:14), their children were ready to ″turn north″ towards the promised land (v. 3).
Be Wary of Complacency
The disciples asked Jesus two questions. He answered their second question at length, describing the signs that would precede the destruction of the temple in Jerusalem (v. 2).
What God Desires
A teacher of the law-probably a Pharisee-was impressed with the way Jesus handled the Sadducees (v. 28).
In Whose Image?
Jesus' enemies tried to entrap Him by asking many trick questions. Although He didn't have anyone to advise or help Him, Jesus handled the situation exceptionally well.
No Less Than All of You
If anyone gave the disciples (″you″, v. 41) a cup of water, he would be rewarded, but if he caused ″one of these little ones-those who believe in me-to stumble″, he would be severely punished (v. 42).