By: Juliet Constantine

The LORD shall establish thee an holy people unto himself, as he hath sworn unto thee, if thou shalt keep the commandments of the LORD thy God, and walk in his ways. (Deuteronomy 28:9)
 

“Come children; gather round, as I tell you the secret to true success.”

These may have been Moses’ introductory words to the descendants of the children of Israel who departed Egypt. You see, for most of them, their parents – because of unbelief - had died in the wilderness. God had to ensure that these remaining ones understand the reason behind the destruction of their descendants and not harbor malice and revenge in their hearts. Also, God wanted them to know so that they do not make the same mistake their parents did. He wanted their service out of love, not fear. Once they see the clear path to success, then it should be easy for them to truly obey God out of a heart of love. They were reminded of who they were, where they’ve been and where they were going; a need link in the pursuit of success.

Thus began the indoctrinating of blessings through obedience; and the opposite was equally true. Moses clearly laid out for these people God’s covenant which was still binding on all Abraham’s descendants. They were told that if they “diligently obey the voice of the LORD your God, to observe carefully all His commandments which I command you today, that the LORD your God will set you high above all nations of the earth. And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, because you obey the voice of the LORD your God.” (Deut. 28:1-2) Obedience to God is the secret to true success.

The Israelites were assured that no economic recession would affect them as “The LORD will command the blessing on you in your storehouses and in all to which you set your hand, and He will bless you in the land which the LORD your God is giving you.” (v8) Wherever they choose to live, in the city or in rural places, they would be blessed. God would see to it that they ‘bloom where they were planted’. Their children would be blessed; likewise all their produce and acquisitions. Their food basket would never be empty and even in their travelling they would be protected. They were assured triumph over their enemies and everyone would know that they were God’s special people on whom He choose to bestow His rich blessings. They only condition to this contract was that the children of Israel remain obedient to God and keep His commandments; the padlock to true success.

As a spiritual Israelite, I am reminded that Moses’ instructions were written for my learning; as God’s promised blessings are for me too. God’s commands are for all people; but for those who choose to obey, those who choose to have God as their God and to be His people, the promised blessings are theirs too. And the condition, the one binding condition remained unchanged. We are to diligently obey and observe carefully all His commandments. We are assured that when we do, His blessings will overtake us.

So, if God’s blessings aren’t overtaking you as promised, you need to revisit your obedience to His commands. If economic recession has left you in an economic daze; if your bread basket is empty and the bills are piling up; if your enemies seems to be prevailing, it’s time for a introspect obedience check to God’s commands. Then like Nehemiah, cry out to God in confession and He will abundantly pardon. Speak His promises to Him in prayer. Our God will hear and He will deliver. He cannot life. He will not lie. He promised to bless and to make us a blessing. Let’s do our part so that He can do His. That’s the secret to true success.

Dear Heavenly Father, You are worthy to be praised. Please forgive us for our disobedience to Your commands and help us to honor our side of the contract so that Your blessings can overtake us. Please keep us obedient to You we pray, in Jesus’ name, amen.

 

Copyrighted by Juliet Constantine 2014 (for “Alone With God – Finding Jesus In The Scriptures” Daily Devotional)