Vicky's Blog!

“Committed to Memory”

Deut. 6:4-9 “..Bind them as a sign on your hand and let them be a symbol on your forehead.  Write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.” (vs. 8-9 – HSCB)

Beth states “By the time Saul was 13 years of age, he was considered a son of the law.  He assumed all the religious responsibilities of the adult Jew.”(1)

 ”The Code of Jewish Law prescribed that a Jewish man 13 years or older was to put on the tefillin at the first moment in the morning when enough daylight was present to recognize a neighbor at a distance of 4 cubits.   These practices seem very strange to us perhaps, but we should appreciate their attempt to interpret Scripture as literally as they knew how.”(2)

 They were to wear God’s Word as a banner and shield over their weakness.  We don’t practice the outward expression of the Jew, but we are wise to share the inward principle.  They were required strict adherence to the customs of dress as an outward expression of their faith.”(3)

As a child, I remember we were not allowed to wear pants and had to wear a veil over our heads when we went to church.  I was taught this was symbolic of reverence and honor for the church and for God.  As our walk matures we soon realize that it isn’t the outward things that we wear or do to “show” our faith but the inward promptings of our heart that is the greater principle.  Beth shares that Saul adorned himself with outward garments as “he was reminded of his binding relationship to his Creator.  Soberly he assumed the responsibility of one associated with God.  The law of the Lord was his life.”(4)

I must admit that I may do certain “outward expressions” symbolic of an “inward expression” of the heart.  Does it mean that I’m putting my faith in the outward expression, absolutely not!  It helps me to remember and that I do not forget how big God really is and how much He loves me!  I believe God is more interested in the matters of the heart.  The outward expressions are for us to never forget to love Him with everything that is within us.

Does life sometimes cause you to forget your association with God?  What do you do to bring yourself back?

Vicky

“…The LORD does not look at the things people look at.  People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7 (NIV)

1-4 - “Paul, 90 Days on His Journey of Faith/Beth Moore/BHPublishing Group