October 7 – Exodus 22:16-25

My first thoughts are that these combined verses seem somewhat random regarding what is morally right, but they are not.  God is not a God of randomness, but a God of intent and purpose.  These verses share the following:  offenses against God and humanity, honoring the Lord and acting in a moral manner.  We are made in the image of God, so God takes seriously how we treat each other.   Holiness describes our God.  Yet, we are far from holy, and our Holy God loves us beyond measure.  How can we strive to become more holy while understanding we will never be perfect?  What steps can we take to be more holy?   1 Timothy 1:5 states, “Now the purpose of the commandment is love from a pure heart, from a good conscience, and from sincere faith.”  Jesus came and fulfilled these laws.  A pure heart, good conscience, and sincere faith; my mind says I am far from this.  Perhaps it’s by fixing our eyes on Jesus.  But, how do we fix our eyes on Jesus?   How can we work toward inward purity?   Jesus was the perfect example of honoring God and others.  Today is a great day to submit yourself to His will and honor the plans He has for your life.