Justin Houtz

Exodus 35, John 14, Proverbs 11, Ephesians 4

DateVersionReading Plan
@March 24, 2024ESV (2016)M’Cheyne Plan 2024

Exodus 35

Exodus 35:20–21 (ESV) 20 Then all the congregation of the people of Israel departed from the presence of Moses. 21 And they came, everyone whose heart stirred him, and everyone whose spirit moved him, and brought the LORD’s contribution to be used for the tent of meeting, and for all its service, and for the holy garments.

Moses told the Israelites to bring contributions for the tabernacle, whoever “is of a generous heart” (Exod. 35:5). Everyone whose heart stirred him and whose spirit moved him responded and brought the LORD’s contribution. Is is those who understand the blessing of contributing to the LORD that give generously. Paul has a similar tone later in the NT when he addresses the Corinthian church on sowing and reaping, that “Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Cor. 9:7)

John 14

John 14:15 (ESV) 15 “If you love me, you will keep my commandments.

I have heard it once said (although blanking on the source) that obedience is the highest form of worship. Jonathan Dodson also says in his book, Gospel-Centered Discipleship, that “Religious affection is affection for Christ that results in obedience to Christ.” Our love for our Lord and Savior is what propels us to do as He has commanded. We will abide in most what or whom we love most, let this be for us the Lord Jesus and His call on our lives.

Proverbs 11

Proverbs 11:13 (ESV) 13 Whoever goes about slandering reveals secrets, but he who is trustworthy in spirit keeps a thing covered.

I often struggle with this passage, when to speak and when to use discretion. It seems so easy to stray into gossip and slander when sharing life with family, friends and fellow believers. We can inappropriately disclose details about someone’s life by thinly veiling it as a “prayer request”. As we approach discussions of life and faith, we must seek the Lord first in prayer for direction and guidance.

Ephesians 4

Ephesians 4:20–24 (ESV) 20 But that is not the way you learned Christ!— 21 assuming that you have heard about him and were taught in him, as the truth is in Jesus, 22 to put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, 23 and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, 24 and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness.

Paul tells the Ephesians that they are no longer to walk as the Gentiles do, in the futility of their minds. The call is the same for us, to put away our old, corrupt selves and to clothe ourselves in Christ. Doing so is to actively embrace and engage in His transformative work in our lives.

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