What a wayward people the Israelites were! Instead of contentedly following God’s good plan for their lives, they were constantly grumbling and wishing to choose their own way. Even on the very threshold of the good land God had promised them, they began demanding to go back to Egypt – to slavery – away from the life that God longed to give them (see Numbers 14:1-4).

In Deuteronomy 30, a generation later, after almost all the rebellious Israelites had died in the desert, Moses recounted to the people how good and patient God had been to them — and would continue to be with them — if they would only listen and decide to obey their faithful God’s voice to choose life.

Silly Israelites! I’m glad I’m not like them. Oh, but how often I am! How often would I have chosen a way of death until my merciful God pulled me back from the brink? How grateful I am that He has never given up on me. This motivates me to listen, obey, and choose life daily!

Has your own way ever seemed better than God’s? Have you ever felt so far from God that you believe He has given up on you? Be assured that He always offers forgiveness and life to those who turn from their own ways and seek His. He is ready and waiting for you to choose His life.

Lord God, only you know how often I have almost chosen death instead of your gracious way of life. Thank you for never letting me go! Help me every day to hear your voice, to walk in your ways, to choose the life you long to give me. Amen.

Go Deeper — The next time you have a major decision to make, ask God which way you should choose and listen for the answer. Then be open to His response and obey it.



Tags: Listen Deuteronomy 30
Photo Credit: Robson Hatsukami Morgan