22 February | Teens
«For if ye shall diligently keep all these commandments which I command you, to do them, to love the Lord your God, to walk in all his ways, and to cleave unto him;… Then will the Lord drive out all these nations from before you, and ye shall possess greater nations and mightier than yourselves. » Deuteronomy 11: 22,23
In today's text, God speaks to His people, offering wonderful promises as well as very, very wise counsel. He reminds the Israelites of all the wonders and signs He performed in Egypt and during their journey through the wilderness, showing His power and care. God promises blessings for the land they are about to enter, a land “flowing with milk and honey;” but those blessings are conditional on obedience and love for the Lord, through the following of His commandments.
God counsels the people to keep His words in their hearts and souls, to teach them to their children, to speak of them at home and on the road, when laying down and when getting up. This shows the importance of keeping God's faith and teachings present in all aspects of life, to ensure that the next generation also knows and follows the Lord's way. That's why it's so important to have a devotional like this, isn't it?
God always keeps His promises, as He showed by leading the people of Israel to a land full of good things. He also has promises and counsel for us on how to live well, just as we have seen in several promises. Obeying God and following His teachings is the key to a life full of blessings.
Take Action
Plant a seed in a pot and commit to taking care of it every day. Water it, give it light and make sure it's in a good environment to grow. This seed is like the promised land: it needs constant care and attention. As you care for it, remember how our daily choices and actions can keep God's blessings flowing into our lives, just as water and sunshine help your plant grow.