Deuteronomy 14-16

What God said to me – So many of the instructions I gave Israel were to show that they were a people separated from the world – a people I chose as My own.  They were to act differently.  They were to be different.  The same is true for you.  You are not to be or act as the world does.  You are Mine.  You are separate – holy to Me.  You shouldn’t participate in their pagan or ungodly practices.  It should be evident to all that you are Mine from the way you live each day.  You don’t need to “preach” to them or condemn their lifestyle – just live yours to please Me.  Be kind but don’t waver.  Love, but don’t participate.  They will see you are different.  You have opportunities to share why that is – you can lift Me up so others will be drawn to Me.

Deuteronomy 11-13

What God said to me – It is so easy to be enticed by the world around you if you are not totally focused on Me.  That is why I instructed Israel to impress My word on their heart and soul – to bind them to their hand and on their forehead.  In order not to stray you must always focus on Me and My word.  Don’t let this become an empty routine, going through the motions, but make it a habit of your heart and mind that is ingrained on your soul.  Only then will it truly change the way you live.  Incorporate My word in your speech as you encounter others – not to preach or demonstrate your knowledge, but to share what your walk with Me truly means and to remind yourself to stay faithful always.

Deuteronomy 8-10

What God said to me – All that you are and have comes from Me.  Never forget that.  Never forget to express gratitude.  Never forget that “I AM” your source, not just for material blessing, but for peace and joy and love.  Israel forgot these truths and looked to themselves – looked at their own weaknesses and not at My strength.  They failed to be thankful for My provision and care and did not trust Me to be all they needed.  Learn from their failures – learn from the way I disciplined them – learn to trust Me – learn to look to Me for all you need.  Make Me your first stop, not your last.  Stay close to Me.  Don’t wander because straying always leads you away from Me.