Today's lesson comes from Deuteronomy 8: 1-10. The verses continue with Moses' admonition to the Israelites to obey God's commands. The eighth chapter opens with a recounting of God's dealing with them during their wilderness wandering. God's objective was to get the people to stop complaining and to start trusting.
The first section is "Past Instruction." vv. 1-4 God's laws are not optional, nor are people allowed to be selective in their obedience. It was not enough to hear the commands, they were to be doers of the Word. God's Providence could be seen in the lives of the Israelites. He led them, provided for them, and protected them. He wanted the people to learn to confidently rely upon Him. Can you see the Providence of God in your life? A key to a victorious life is to take God at His word, to believe Him. Remember, man "lives" by every word from the mouth of the Lord.
Verse 1 explained that the Israelites were to obey the commandments that they might live, flourish, and possess the land God was giving them. Verse 2 reminded them of God's faithfulness and that His actions had been to humble them and break their pride and self-reliance. In verse 3, He caused them to realize their utter dependence on Him. Sometimes God has to bring you low so that you will look up and depend on Him to see you through. While it may seem painful for a while, it is in the believers best interest in the long run. In verse 4, we learn that God's provision for food, clothing and drink was more than sufficient to get the Israelites into the Promised Land. God's past instruction was for the Israelites' well being and welfare.
The second section is "Present Admonition." vv. 5, 6 The children of God do experience chastening. We need to understand that chastisement is not an indication of God's wrath, but rather it comes because of His love. He is helping us to become more like Himself, and to stay away from that which would only mar our happiness. What should our response be too chastisement?
Verse 5 tells us that God chastens us as children which means He does so as a loving Father to His children. We are to "consider in thine heart," which means to give careful, deliberate consideration to God's correction. Verse 6 explains how we should receive correction: with obedience, to be like Him in daily conduct, and to have a holy reverence for the Almighty.
The third section is "Future Benefits." vv. 7- 10 In the last portion of the lesson, Moses paints a graphic picture of the blessings the Israelites would enjoy once inside of Canaan. There is a parallel between the blessings in Canaan and the blessings of a sanctified heart. We should recognize that all of the blessings we enjoy come from the gracious hand of God. We should never take them for granted, but we should always be grateful and "bless the LORD thy God."
Verse 7 confirms that God was bringing the Israelites into a "good land" that contained rivers, brooks, fountains and springs. The land abounded with good things to eat and enjoy. Verse 8 describes some of the harvest including wheat, barley, vines, fig trees, pomegranates, olive oil and honey. These would be used to meet the needs of the people and used in international trade. Verse 9 promises that there would be an abundance of bread and useful metals. The needs of the people would be met in excellence and in abundance. Verse 10 reminds the people how they were respond to God's provision. They were to "bless the LORD thy God for the good lane which He hath given thee."
There are many parallels between the Israelites entering the Promised Land and the experience of entire sanctification for the believer. In both, there is a rest in God. The Israelites entered the new land, still had some battles, but they were victorious. In the sanctified life, there is a complete rest in God because you have surrendered your all to Him. Yes, there will still be battles, but those battles are from without, not within. Your heart has been cleansed by faith. (Acts 15: 8- 9) The enemy of your soul has a far greater difficulty in attacking the sanctified Christian. Search this blog for "how to be sanctified" for more information on this subject.
The Golden Text is: "Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed." (Psalms 37: 3) When we trust in the LORD, He will guide us into the sanctified life. Once a person becomes a Christian and they know their sins (acts of sin) are forgiven, they are aware that their remains some carnal stirrings in their heart, e.g., anger, lust, envy, jealousy, greed, hatred, etc. These stirrings are evidence of a carnal heart. God has a deliverance for all our needs. Our sins are forgiven and then our hearts are cleansed. Praise God, that is living in the Promised Land.
My summary points:
1. We are to remember God's past instruction to us and never walk against light (what God has previously shown you is wrong, is still wrong);
2. When God chastens us, He does so for our own good.
3. God has a way of life for us that exceeds our greatest expectations and it is called the sanctified life.
Next week: "Call to Commitment." (Deuteronomy 10: 12-22; 11: 1)
Don't forget to read the Sunday School Beacon for inspiration and encouragement.
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