Gathered from the nations 

    Deuteronomy

Chapter 30. Moses prophesied a restoration involving repentance   a return to God   restored fortunes   release from captivity   regathering to the Lord   spiritual renewal   and blessing. In verse 6: The Lord your God will circumcise your hearts...so that you may love him with all your heart and with all your soul, and live. 

     Our commentary includes some 50 verses throughout the Old Testament prophesying (still in our future) Israel's gathering, repentance, renewal, blessing, (and judgment) restoration, and in the book of Revelation, the Messiah reigning over Israel and all nations. 

     In this chapter, the Israelites were commanded to maintain their relationship with God...to recognize their inability to fulfill the law ...therefore to bring sacrifices of atonement. (Scholars say this will be the norm in the Millennium). Life and salvation were never promised as a reward for perfect obedience. The law assumed the imperfection of faith and obedience and thus provided a sacrificial system that atoned for sin. 

     Israel's ultimate hope rests in God's mercy and grace.......as it is for Christians.   

Chapter 31. "The Lord himself...will never leave you nor forsake you." 

     The New Testament applies this promise to all who receive Christ as Lord and Savior (Hebrews 13:5). True believers love God above all else. We must be "strong and courageous," v. 6, persevering in trials, resisting temptations, trusting in and loving the Lord. 

 Tuesday: Which economy is best?

     The New Testament applies this promise tsincerely receive Christ as Lord and Savior (