Deuteronomy 14
-This chapter describes the clean and unclean animals that God’s
chosen people can and cannot eat as a part of their diet. Israel was a holy
people and this list is the healthiest way to feed the physical body under the
LORD’s direction since He knows all things. I think particular emphasis should
be placed on the distinction between those animals that chew the cud, or elements
of the earth, verses those that were ravaging animals that partook of dead
flesh for their sustenance (Deuteronomy 14:1-21).
-Further, the tithe is commanded of the people when they
come into the land which the LORD their God is going to give them. The tithe
will be brought to the place God chooses to establish His Name, which will be
Jerusalem. There there will be rejoicing and exchanges for those who live at a prohibitive
distance for bringing goods and animals. This gives us insight into the
corruption that Jesus faced when He cleared the Temple area from those exchangers
who were profiting from men’s tithes and offerings designed to offer in worship
before the LORD in a spirit of prayer and supplication (Deuteronomy 14:22-26, Matthew
21:12-13, Mark 11:15-18, Luke 19:45-46, John 2:13-17).
-Finally, the Levite was to never ever be neglected in their
towns since they had no inheritance portion. At the end of every third year, a
tithe of all the produce in that year was to be deposited in each town for the
Levite, the alien, the orphan, and the widow so that they could come and eat
and be satisfied. God’s purpose in this is obvious on the humanitarian side,
but it also would ensure His continued blessings for all that their hands did
in the area of productivity (Deuteronomy 14:27-29).
-*Application* Have you considered your diet lately? It is a
big deal with God as we can see from His Law. The Mediterranean diet is
considered the healthiest in the world for a reason; God gave it and blessed
it. Consider the things you put into your temple and glorify the LORD in your
diet. This chapter gives us a great start in doing things rights for our
physical longevity. Beyond that, this chapter teaches us that generosity is
closely associated with the LORD’s blessings economically. Consider the less
fortunate and give to them periodically with earnest intention. God promises to
bless you for this.
Verse to Memorize:
Deuteronomy 14:2
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