Scripture: Numbers 32.
OBSERVATION
(Key verses)
Numbers 32:23 (NLT)
23 But if you fail to keep your word, then you will have sinned against the LORD, and you may be sure that your sin will find you out.
APPLICATION
(How Can I apply what God is saying here to my life today?)
The subject of this devotional is a phrase that I have heard most of my life, and it was used in a sense that I should remember that nothing that I did was hidden from mom or dad! Little did I know that this was an actual quote directly from Numbers 32:23, and spoken by God when He warned the Israelites to be sure and follow through with all that they had promised Him they would do for their families and flocks. Very often today we make promises to God, especially when we’re in a pinch and desperate for the intervention of God. At times like this we make some promises and deals with God like: if you heal my child and restore her back to normal life, I will go to church the rest of my life. Friends, I have seen where promises like this were made, and then they were testified about before others, but the human part of the bargain was kept for perhaps two weeks! Consider the facts right after 9/11 when churches were filled the weekend following the event, then each week thereafter fewer and fewer people kept their promise of attending church if God would keep them and their families safe from terrorists. In verse 24 God went on to say that it was fine for the people to do what they wanted to do, but just know that if their promises were not kept and they failed to keep their word, then know that God will act. Because of the years in the wilderness, I believe that the people knew what this warning meant, because over time they saw some pretty sever repercussions for disobedience. Friends, God warned that we are to keep our word, in fear and out of respect of an awesome God that will hold us accountable, so be careful little lips what you say today! Remember, God’s not dead, and He is our constant Friend, Protector, Savior and Lord, BUT He is also our Judge and accountability partner.
PRAYER
(What I will ask of God, in order for me to properly apply His Word to my life)
Lord Jesus, please guide me into the path of righteousness this day. Please help me to listen before I speak. Please remind me of the One that I represent, and how important it is that I say it straight, and as accurate as possible, so that the hearer could easily place their faith in what I say because of my relationship with You. Thank You for the reminder today that You are very aware of all that I say and promise, and as a soldier of the cross, I am expected to live in obedience and follow through on all that You have said and all that I have promised.
**Words underlined may be a hyperlink to a song that God laid on my heart while sharing this devotional this morning. Click it and be blessed by the song, like I was when I listened to it! …… I would be overjoyed to have the opportunity to pray with you about a need in your life that may, or may not have been highlighted by this Nugget today. Why not drop me a note and tell me about it? You may email me at:
nuggetsfromgodsword@yahoo.com
**