Skip to main content

Deuteronomy-12

Encountering God's Presence: A Devotional Study on Deuteronomy 12​

Introduction​

Deuteronomy 12 provides a sacred space for the people of God to encounter Him. This chapter reveals God's instructions for worship and offers a fresh perspective on our relationships with God, His Word, and our actions in this world.

Section 1: Worship from a Distant Land (Deuteronomy 12:1-4)​

Devotional Thought: Moses admonishes the people to destroy all remnants of their past worship practices. He declares that God will choose where the people should worship Him, and they must attend these chosen places. Our actions and choices in life convey our priorities. Today, reflect on where you are actively choosing to worship God.

Reflection Questions:

  • Where are you currently worshiping God?
  • Are there worshipful practices or habits in your life that may need to be adjusted to prioritize God's presence?

Section 2: A Place of God's Presence (Deuteronomy 12:5-7)​

Devotional Thought: Moses then describes the altars the people will build when they settle in the promised land. These altars will be places of God's presence. Consider the places in your life where you sense God's nearness. Reflect on how these places sustain and nourish you spiritually.

Reflection Questions:

  • In what places in your life do you feel most connected to God's presence?
  • How can you intentionally cultivate these sacred places in your life?

Section 3: A Holy Revelation (Deuteronomy 12:8-12)​

Devotional Thought: Moses urges the people to listen intently to the voice of God and act on His instructions. His Word reveals the holy presence of God, and we must actively seek it. Today, take time to revel in the holy Word of God. Encounter His nearness through His Word.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can you deepen your relationship with God's Word to reveal His holy presence more clearly?
  • Are there ways you can intentionally create spaces for God's Word to nourish and sustain you spiritually?

Section 4: Shunning the Detestable (Deuteronomy 12:29-32)​

Devotional Thought: Moses concludes his chapter on worship by declaring that God will not tolerate unholy acts of worship. The people must distinguish themselves from the practices of the surrounding nations. Reflect on how you can differentiate yourself from sinful practices and avoid idolatry.

Reflection Questions:

  • How do you differentiate yourself from sinful practices and avoid idolatry?
  • In what ways can you actively seek to avoid detestable practices?

Section 5: God's Blessing (Deuteronomy 12:32)​

Devotional Thought: Moses promises that God's blessing will follow obedience. Today, reflect on the ways your obedience has blessed you and ask for strength to continue walking in obedience.

Reflection Questions:

  • How have your obedient actions resulted in blessing?
  • How can you intentionally submit to God's ways to experience further blessings?

Conclusion:​

As we close our devotional journey through Deuteronomy 12, let's reflect on the importance of encountering God's presence. This chapter encourages us to prioritize worship, differentiate ourselves from detestable practices, and cultivate holy spaces through His Word. May we be committed to actively seeking God's holy presence through our actions and relationship with His Word.