TODAY'S BIBLE READING

MAY 24

OLD TESTAMENT I
Deuteronomy 2
Deuteronomy 2 is a continuation of Moses' exhortation to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land. In this chapter, Moses recalls the Israelites' journey through the wilderness, the battles they fought, and the victories they achieved.

Moses begins by reminding the Israelites that they had already been in the wilderness for 40 years, and that they had traveled around the land of Seir (Edom) without entering it. He explains that God had given the land of Seir to Esau, the brother of Jacob, and that the Israelites should not provoke the Edomites to war.

Next, Moses recalls how the Israelites had passed through the land of Moab, and God had instructed them not to harm the Moabites, as He had given them the land of Ar as an inheritance. Moses also reminds the Israelites of the battles they fought against the giants of King Og of Bashan and King Sihon of Heshbon, which they won with God's help.

Moses then emphasizes the importance of remembering God's faithfulness and provision throughout their journey. He encourages the Israelites to trust in God and obey His commands as they prepare to enter the Promised Land.

In summary, Deuteronomy 2 emphasizes the importance of obeying God's commands, remembering His faithfulness, and trusting in Him as the Israelites prepare to enter the Promised Land. Moses also reminds the Israelites to respect the sovereignty of neighboring nations and avoid unnecessary conflicts.

OLD TESTAMENT II
Ecclesiastes 2:11 - 3:15
In Ecclesiastes 2:11-3:15, the writer reflects on the futility of seeking fulfillment in worldly pleasures and possessions. Despite accumulating great wealth and experiencing every pleasure imaginable, the writer concludes that it is all meaningless and ultimately unsatisfying. The pursuit of wisdom and knowledge also fails to provide lasting meaning or purpose.

The writer then turns to the concept of time, observing that there is a time for every activity under heaven. Birth and death, planting and harvesting, mourning and dancing, are all part of the natural cycle of life. The writer acknowledges that humans cannot fully understand the ways of God and the mysteries of life, but encourages us to enjoy the blessings of each season and to trust in God's timing.

Ultimately, the writer concludes that life is a gift from God and that we should fear Him and keep His commandments. While we may not fully understand the purpose of our existence, we can find meaning and fulfillment by seeking to honor God and live according to His will.

NEW TESTAMENT
Luke 6:20-49
In Luke 6:20-49, Jesus teaches his disciples and the crowds who have gathered around him about what it means to follow him. He begins with the Beatitudes, a series of blessings for those who are poor, hungry, and oppressed. He then warns those who are rich and self-sufficient, telling them that their wealth and status will not save them in the end.

Jesus goes on to teach about how to love one's enemies and treat others with compassion and forgiveness. He tells a parable about the importance of building one's life on a solid foundation, using the metaphor of a house built on rock versus one built on sand.

Jesus also warns against judging others, and encourages his listeners to examine their own hearts and motives before criticizing others. He emphasizes the importance of bearing good fruit in one's life, and warns that those who do not will be cut off like a withered tree.

Finally, Jesus contrasts those who merely hear his words with those who put them into practice. He concludes by challenging his followers to live out his teachings in their everyday lives, knowing that only then will they truly experience the abundant life he offers.