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Dear Heavenly Father, Praise There were times when you let the Israelites go hungry, but your purpose was not to harm them. Rather, your plan was to do good for them in the end (Deut 8:16). This shows me what a wonderful Father you are. You discipline and humble me so that you can later bless and prosper me. I worship you today and bless your name! Praise the Lord! Today in Your Word Today you told me more about Moses’ second sermon to the Israelites in the plains of Moab at the end of the 40-year wilderness period. Moses had called on Israel to be completely loyal to you, and now he warned them about several threats to this loyalty. First, the nations living in Canaan. Moses warned the people that the Canaanites would lead them into idolatry, and he commanded Israel to devote those nations to complete destruction (Deut 7:2). This teaches me that I should be ruthless when it comes to removing anything that can lead me into sin (e.g., relationships, entertainment, food, etc.). I can’t avoid living in a sinful world, but I can keep the world from gaining a foothold in my life. Second, their prideful hearts. Moses told Israel that your decision to lead them through the desert had been deliberate, for you wanted to humble them and test them and reveal what was in their hearts. This teaches me that my primary concern should be complete obedience to your Word (Deut 8:3). You know my physical needs, and you will provide for me in your own time. My job is to patiently follow you. Third, their future abundance. Moses warned the people that prosperity would cause them to forget you if they didn’t remember where their blessings came from: “You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth” (Deut 8:18). This shows me how important it is to remind myself each day that everything I have is a gift from you. You have given me the ability to work and make money, and I should use my wealth to bring glory to you. Reflection Israel wasn’t the only one to be tested in the desert. Jesus Himself was led by the Spirit to be tempted in the wilderness. If you humbled and tested your own Son, can I expect any less? Request Father, the temptations I face are common to man (1 Cor 10:13a). Help me resist the devil and flee from idolatry (1 Cor 10:14). Thanksgiving Thank you for the promise that you are faithful. You will not allow me to be tempted beyond what I can bear, but will provide a way of escape, that I may be able to endure (1 Cor 10:13b)! In Jesus’ name, Amen. Suggested Hymn: “Be Strong and True” by Jennie McNicholas. Meditation Verse: Deuteronomy 8:16. |