READ DEUTERONOMY 7
GO DEEPER
In the opening of Deuteronomy 7, God reminds Israel that they are uniquely chosen by Him. God has specifically selected Israel as His own and generously shows them His affection and kindness. His love for them is not dependent on Israel being superior or the most powerful. God has chosen them as His special people out of His own sovereign will, a gift that they can never fully repay. Nevertheless, the Lord directs Israel to discard any idols and corruption before entering the Promised Land. The Lord also commands them to eradicate the Canaanites. God desires them to follow His commands as He offers them a life that surpasses anything they can envision.
Moses reiterates to the Israelites in verses 12 to 19 the potential blessings awaiting them if they remain obedient. This promise from the Lord is unwavering, as God does not go back on His word. Despite their fear of the numerous Canaanites, Moses reassures the Israelites of God's past reliability and urges them not to be afraid of their enemies. He also cautions them against desiring the possessions of the Canaanites and reminds them of the Lord's disapproval of idolatry.
One important lesson from this chapter can be seen in verses 7 through 9. The Israelites did not do anything exceptional to earn God's favor; rather, God chose them out of love. Verse 7 specifically mentions that the Lord has shown His love for them. He is wholly focused on the Israelites and has a strong desire for them. This principle applies to us as well. We did not achieve a connection with God through our efforts or by proving ourselves, but God has chosen us simply because He loves us.
In addition, we are reminded of God's steadfastness and commitments, and we can trust in the assurances He gives. However, like the Israelites, we have a tendency to forget. Our mistakes and human nature can hinder us from acknowledging God's faithfulness. We are enticed to worship things apart from God alone. Despite knowing that the Israelites will falter, the Lord boldly assures them that He will bring them prosperity in facing the Canaanites. They may still be fearful, but even in their fear, God bestows favor upon them against their adversaries. This is a profound truth to cling to! Even when we are filled with fear and uncertainty, the Lord remains constant and benevolent.
QUESTIONS
1.
How would your perception of yourself and others be altered if you kept in mind that the Lord has chosen to love you?
2. In times of uncertainty or anxiety, how can you contemplate the Lord's reliability?
3. How can you remind yourself to follow the Lord obediently, not to attain God's approval, but because of His grace?