See, I Didn't Go Off On Polygamy

As I read the OT readings lately (Deuteronomy), I see so many foundational standards for real justice. There is a clear baseline for right and wrong outlined. And, where there is doubt, there is specific instruction regarding a just-in-case sacrifice (penalty payment - Deut. 21.1-9) and also innocent-until-proven-guilty instruction (Deut. 22.27).

There is also specific reference to sexual sins in today's reading. And, however harsh the penalties for adultery may seem, the penalty for sex with an unmarried virgin is little more than the practical solution, "Marry the girl." Even within the accepted polygamist culture of the OT, there is also clear right-and-wrong defined in the treatment of a first-born son (birthright supersedes partiality for any reason - Deut. 21.15-17). See, I didn't go off on polygamy!

The thing I see today is real-life situations and how to deal with them fairly and equitably for all involved.

And then there's the NT reading... Jesus was clearly all about the heart of man more than anything else. Is my heart following Him? The NT reading gives plenty of food for thought for this question today.

Father, as I ponder Your Word today, I sense Your love for mankind - for me - and Your desire to have our wholehearted devotion.