Observation: As Moses gives his final words to Israel, the message about their qualifications to receive the promised land is this ... they didn't earn this. Moses will go on for two chapters about their unworthiness. Israel is not receiving the land because of their righteousness or upright behavior. Instead, they are receiving the land because God sees that the current nations in it are evil, and he has decided to give the land to them as part of his promise to the patriarchs.
No one among Israel has earned any reward or land or blessing. Instead, God has simply promised to give such rewards and blessings based on his promises and love, and to show justice to those that openly reject him and his love.
Application: This model is continued today. No one - especially myself - earns God's love and kindness and mercy and blessings by our actions. I am stubborn and sinful. However, I believe in Jesus Christ, and thus receive the promise of the new nation ... the Kingdom of God on earth, and a future in heaven.
The Lord gives to those who participate in his promises. We cannot earn what we receive, but we do have to "opt in" to the promise, and then strive to obey his commands as our response to his love. This model is ancient, evident, well defined, consistent, and trustworthy.
Israel was unworthy, but received the promised land due to the promise. They thrived as they obeyed, and eventually, by their actions, opted out of the promise.
I am unworthy, but receive the Kingdom of God due to the promise of Jesus Christ. I desire to obey, and I will never opt out of the promise.
Prayer: Lord, your promises are sure, and your ways are just. I know I am not the man you wish I were, and that I am not as obedient, honest, and upright as is expected by your laws and precepts. Yet you are so holy that your promises stand, and I am grateful for your promise found in Jesus, my Lord and savior. I will dwell in, and enjoy, the safe land of your kingdom. Amen.
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