When we are influenced by the world around us, we become very selfish. Some people deliberately pervert justice because of a grudge or because they despise the poor, the weak, or the alien. Others are simply too busy to lend a hand to someone in need. It is easy to live a self-centered life. God’s word reminds us that we are responsible for making our society just and fair for all people. We are responsible for helping the weak, for righting wrongs as we see them, and for seeing that weaker people get a fair chance. We must remember God's grace in delivering us from the loneliness of being aliens in an unfriendly world and making us his own children.

The land needs rest; the poor need an opportunity; God's people need to come to God for refreshment of body and soul. God's people need training in thanksgiving. So, God ordained three annual festivals--three times to come before the Lord, remember his grace and show practical and joyful thankfulness.
Application: Lord, help me not to be selfish. Help me to take time to thank you and enjoy your presence.
One Word: Don’t follow the crowd; thank God