Read: Deuteronomy 30-31
Focus Verse: “I know what they are disposed to do, even before I bring them into the land I promised them on oath.” (Deu 31:21b).
Devotion: Over and over the people are warned, if they love God things will go well, if they abandon God, things won’t and God will be mad. Just before Moses dies and Israel crosses the Jordan, God admits that he knows the people will immediately forget God. So, why go to all the trouble if you already know what will happen? If God knows the people will immediately rebel, why bless them and give them the promised land in the first place? Well first, God promised it, so God keeps his word. The chance is still put before them. Second, is it not the love of a parent to let us try anyway? There are consequences for failure, but grace for failed effort.
Pray: LORD you know how often I stumble, but thank you for always letting me try and being there for when I fail. Amen.
Additional Scripture: “God bless those who work for peace, for they will be called the children of God.” (Matt 5:9)