TODAY'S BIBLE READING

MAY 26

OLD TESTAMENT I
Deuteronomy 4
Deuteronomy 4 is a chapter in the Bible that contains a series of exhortations and warnings from Moses to the Israelites as they prepare to enter the Promised Land. Here is a summary of the main points:

Remember God's commands (verses 1-8): Moses tells the Israelites to obey the commands and decrees that God has given them. He reminds them that these laws are wise and just, and that they set them apart from other nations.

Warning against idolatry (verses 9-24): Moses warns the Israelites against worshiping other gods or idols, reminding them of the dangers of doing so. He tells them that God is a jealous God who will punish those who turn away from Him.

Warning against disobedience (verses 25-31): Moses warns the Israelites that if they turn away from God and disobey His commands, they will be punished. However, he also reassures them that if they repent and turn back to God, He will forgive them.

The promise of restoration (verses 32-40): Moses reminds the Israelites of God's faithfulness throughout their history, and assures them that if they remain faithful to Him, He will continue to bless and protect them.

Warning against worshiping false gods (verses 41-49): Moses tells the Israelites that they will be punished if they worship false gods or idols. He also sets aside cities of refuge where someone who unintentionally kills another person can flee for safety.

Overall, Deuteronomy 4 emphasizes the importance of following God's commands and warns against the dangers of disobedience and idolatry. It also reassures the Israelites of God's faithfulness and promises restoration for those who remain faithful to Him.

OLD TESTAMENT II
Ecclesiastes 5, 6
In Ecclesiastes 5, the author warns against making hasty vows or promises to God, as well as being too attached to material possessions. The pursuit of wealth and possessions is ultimately empty and unfulfilling. Instead, one should enjoy the simple pleasures of life and be content with what they have.

In Ecclesiastes 6, the author contemplates the concept of fate and the idea that everyone's destiny is predetermined. He argues that it is better to live a simple life with contentment than to chase after wealth and success, only to be ultimately disappointed. The author also acknowledges the fleeting nature of life and the inevitability of death, encouraging readers to find joy in the present moment.

NEW TESTAMENT
Luke 7:30-50
In Luke 7:30-50, Jesus dines at the home of Simon the Pharisee. A sinful woman enters and begins to wash Jesus' feet with her tears, anointing them with expensive perfume. Simon is critical of Jesus for allowing such a woman to touch him, but Jesus responds with a parable about forgiveness, indicating that the woman's great love and gratitude have led to her forgiveness of sins. Jesus then forgives the woman's sins and commends her faith, declaring her saved. This account demonstrates Jesus' power to forgive and transform lives, regardless of social status or past mistakes. It also highlights the importance of repentance and faith in receiving forgiveness and salvation.