Eric Otchere I http://www.livingourbible.com I Monday 1st September 2025
Introduction
Deuteronomy 16 reminds us that worship and justice are inseparable. Moses reviewed Israel’s festivals—the Passover, the Feast of Weeks, and the Feast of Tabernacles—each serving as a reminder of God’s mighty deliverance, provision, and faithfulness. But alongside these celebrations, God’s people were commanded to uphold justice with integrity.
True devotion to God is not limited to rituals; it must flow into daily life, ensuring fairness, compassion, and righteousness in society.
1. Observing the Passover (Deuteronomy 16:1-8)
The Passover was a powerful reminder of God’s deliverance from Egypt. Israel was instructed to eat unleavened bread—the “bread of affliction”—for seven days to remember the hardship of slavery and the greatness of God’s redemption.
Scripture: “Do not eat it with bread made with yeast, but for seven days eat unleavened bread, the bread of affliction, because you left Egypt in haste.” (Deuteronomy 16:3 NIV)
For us today, the Passover points to Christ, our Passover Lamb (1 Corinthians 5:7). We must never forget the cost of our salvation and should live daily in gratitude for God’s redeeming grace.
2. Celebrating the Feast of Weeks (Deuteronomy 16:9-12)
Also known as Pentecost, the Feast of Weeks was a time of thanksgiving for the harvest. It was marked by joy and generosity, as everyone—including foreigners, orphans, and widows—was to share in the blessings of God.
Scripture: “Celebrate the Festival of Weeks to the Lord your God by giving a freewill offering in proportion to the blessings the Lord your God has given you.” (Deuteronomy 16:10 NIV)
This teaches us that gratitude should overflow into generosity. God’s blessings are not meant to be hoarded but shared, reflecting His heart for compassion and justice.
3. Keeping the Feast of Tabernacles (Deuteronomy 16:13-17)
The Feast of Tabernacles (or Booths) was a joyful festival commemorating God’s provision during Israel’s wilderness journey. Living in temporary shelters reminded them of God’s faithfulness in sustaining them.
Scripture: “Be joyful at your festival—you, your sons and daughters, your male and female servants, and the Levites, the foreigners, the fatherless and the widows who live in your towns.” (Deuteronomy 16:14 NIV)
For believers, this reminds us to rejoice in God’s provision and to include others in our celebrations. Gratitude and joy should unite communities under God’s goodness.
4. Administering Justice Fairly (Deuteronomy 16:18-22)
Moses concluded with a call to justice. Judges were to rule with integrity, refusing bribes and partiality. Justice was not an optional ideal but a divine command that reflected God’s holy character.
Scripture: “Follow justice and justice alone, so that you may live and possess the land the Lord your God is giving you.” (Deuteronomy 16:20 NIV)
True worship of God must result in just living. Our faith is meaningless if it is not expressed through fairness, integrity, and compassion in society.
Conclusion
Deuteronomy 16 ties worship and justice together. Israel was to remember God’s mighty acts through festivals while upholding justice in their daily lives. Today, we are called to the same—remembering God’s faithfulness, celebrating His provision, and living with righteousness and fairness.
Take Action: Remember the Lord for what He has done, and uphold justice in all you do. Let your worship not only be in words but in a life marked by fairness and integrity.
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