Thursday, March 28

THURSDAY, MARCH 28, 2019

"And now, Israel, what does the Lord your God ask of you but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in obedience to him, to love him, to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to observe the Lord's commands and decrees that I am giving you today for your own good?" (Deuteronomy 10:12,13)

In the Book of Deuteronomy, Moses reminds the people of God's call on their lives—both individually and as the nation of Israel.  This call includes a beautiful covenant, where the people's faithfulness would unlock God's tremendous protection and blessing.

These verses above touch on the people's commitment to this covenant, including several steps:

(1) To "fear the Lord your God."  This fear centers on "reverence," a recognition of God's awesomeness and majesty.  Properly understanding God's character and greatness will bring us to fear Him:  to revere Him in awe.  This attitude sparks the action of worship and trust in God's power.

(2) To "walk in obedience to him."  God expresses concern for His people's obedience, not to micromanage, but rather to let flourish.  Like the loving Father He is, He knows what's best for His children, and He has designed His statues to bring freedom from guilt and self- (and others-) destruction.

(3) To "love him."  Our love ties into both the fear and obedience discussed above.  Rightly understanding God's majesty and beauty, we will be drawn by the Holy Spirit into a love relationship with Him.  Our relationship with Him then calls forth our obedience, for we appreciate and accept His love for us and provision for us through His statutes.

(4) To "serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul."  This service amounts to much more than mental assent or lip service.  It calls forth our total being, submitted to the will of our Master.

How do these chords strike you today?  Are you excited to follow God today?  If so, excellent!  If not, would you consider praying that God would reveal more of Himself so that you could see Him more clearly and follow Him more closely?

Lord God, thank You for establishing Your covenant with the nation of Israel and, later, with us through Your Son's sacrifice in our place.  Help us to invite You to take the throne of our lives and to experience the fullness of Your majesty and strength.  We love You and honor You today.  In Jesus's mighty Name, amen.