TODAY’S SCRIPTURE: Deuteronomy 25-27 chapters
DEVOTION
Deuteronomy 27:5 (NLT) “Then build an altar there to the Lord your God, using natural, uncut stones. You must not shape the stones with an iron tool.”
In this verse, God instructed the Israelites to build an altar using uncut stones. He gave very specific directions. Why? In those days, the Israelites did not have advanced tools like we do today. Still, God did not want them to depend on human skill or creativity.
He wanted the altar to remain pure. If the stones were decorated or shaped, people might begin to admire human effort more than God Himself. Their focus could shift from worship to workmanship.
By using uncut stones, God was teaching them to follow His way not their own rules, ideas.
This reminds of God’s grace in our lives. We, as humans, do not deserve His grace. Yet, He continues to pour it out not because of our efforts, but because of His great love and mercy.
Just as the uncut stones required no human effort, God’s grace also does not depend on our effort or works.
Salvation and grace are gifts from God. However, to continue walking in His grace, we are called to live in obedience. Grace is free, but it leads us into a life of faithfulness and surrender. Let us remember that God desires simple, sincere hearts more than impressive efforts. When we obey Him and trust His ways, our lives become living altars before Him.
PRAYER
Dear God, thank you for your Grace in my life. Help me become a living altar, Amen.