Highlights In Today's Reading:
Talk about the benefits of walking on the "straight and narrow" — the blessings of God are marvelous. Then in contrast we read the horrific results of disobedience. Discover where the fear of the Lord comes in and the three things that are absolutely of the Lord.
The Israelites were reminded that God had brought them out of cruel Egyptian slavery and that they were His people freed from slavery to enjoy His blessings of freedom. Therefore, it was only right for Him to expect obedience. But the best reason for obedience is that everything God commands us to do is always best for our long-term good.
He promised them blessings beyond compare if they would keep His Commandments, saying: I will walk among you, and will be your God, and ye shall be My people (26:12). Isn't that wonderful! But it is so sad to read that, like spoiled children, they continually murmured and the dissatisfaction of this generation resulted in unbelief that prevented them from possessing the promised land (Heb. 3:7-19).
The second generation of Israelites after the departure from Egypt followed Joshua to conquor Canaan; however, many of the tribes were influenced by fear rather than faith in God and did not defeat their enemies. Because of their compromise and unbelief, future generations continued this trend and experienced times of oppression during the period of the judges.
Eventually, because of committing sins that compared to those of the Canaanites, the Israelites were also driven from the land, just as God had foretold (Deut. 28:20-25; II Chr. 36:14-21).
The Bible is the only reliable source of information that informs us how to gain the most out of life. Obedience to the Word of God is the key to obtaining His richest blessings and true satisfaction in life. Christ was obedient to God the Father and became the Author (Source) of eternal salvation for all them that obey Him (Heb. 5:8-9). Because of this, let us follow peace with all men (and women), and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord: Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled (12:14-15).
It is of utmost importance that we read the Bible every day because the Holy Spirit uses the instruction of the Word to strengthen us in a life of obedience.
Blessed are they that hear the Word of God, and keep it (Luke 11:28).
Thought for Today:
Loving obedience to the Word of God is the key to gaining true success in life.
Christ Revealed:
As the One who will dwell among us (Lev. 26:11). The Word was made flesh, and dwelt (tabernacled) among us (John 1:14).
Word Studies:
26:13 bondmen =slaves; 26:16 consumption may mean tuberculosis; burning ague =fever; 26:25 avenge the quarrel =execute punishment; 26:30 images =idols of heathen worship; 27:2 a singular vow = special personal commitment.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for Radio Sri Lanka International Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Clarice Wojnarowski • Executive Director of the IBRA in our Washington DC Branch: Reverend Michael Hall • Government Officials: Rep. Tammy Baldwin (WI) and Gov. Sarah Palin (AK) • Country: Bahrain (629,000) 11 islands in the Persian Gulf near Saudi Arabia • Major languages: Arabic and English • No evangelical work is permitted • 85% Muslim; 5% Roman Catholic; 2% Protestant; 1% Orthodox • Prayer Suggestion: Glory in the Lord. He is Victor over Satan (Zech. 3:2).
Optional Reading: Mark 14
Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 5:7-8