Good day dear friends.
Here is our study guide for today:Friday: Deuteronomy 18, 19, 20 What restraints that respect life do you see in the instructions for war in Deut. 20?
The restraints that we find in today's reading of Deut 20 are seldom found any more. The restraints favor life and the fullness thereof. Early in the chapter we read of those who haven't yet dedicated a house can return to dedicate it in case they die in battle and someone else dedicates it. Those who have a new vineyard and haven't yet enjoyed the grapes from it are encouraged to go home and enjoy that first harvest. The man who is engaged is encouraged to marry, enjoy his wife and then return to war.
Further reading shows that Israel should first offer peace to the city that is about to be attacked and if they accept, the people are not killed but are taken as prisoners of war. Those who do not accept and decide to fight run the risk of being killed, with the exception of women and children.
How do you feel about war? Do you believe there is ever a "justifiable" war? How do you feel about the current war in Iraq? What do you suppose God would have us do about it?
PRAYER: Merciful God, we pray for peace in every part of the world. We pray that violence and the threat of war come to an end and that peace would break out. We pray that random acts of kindness would come to every heart. We can pray this prayer only in the name of the Prince of Peace, Jesus our Lord. Amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
e.v.
Here is our study guide for today:Friday: Deuteronomy 18, 19, 20 What restraints that respect life do you see in the instructions for war in Deut. 20?
The restraints that we find in today's reading of Deut 20 are seldom found any more. The restraints favor life and the fullness thereof. Early in the chapter we read of those who haven't yet dedicated a house can return to dedicate it in case they die in battle and someone else dedicates it. Those who have a new vineyard and haven't yet enjoyed the grapes from it are encouraged to go home and enjoy that first harvest. The man who is engaged is encouraged to marry, enjoy his wife and then return to war.
Further reading shows that Israel should first offer peace to the city that is about to be attacked and if they accept, the people are not killed but are taken as prisoners of war. Those who do not accept and decide to fight run the risk of being killed, with the exception of women and children.
How do you feel about war? Do you believe there is ever a "justifiable" war? How do you feel about the current war in Iraq? What do you suppose God would have us do about it?
PRAYER: Merciful God, we pray for peace in every part of the world. We pray that violence and the threat of war come to an end and that peace would break out. We pray that random acts of kindness would come to every heart. We can pray this prayer only in the name of the Prince of Peace, Jesus our Lord. Amen.
Have a great and blessed day in the Lord!
e.v.
