Being God’s Chosen: Part 2- Deut 7
I wonder if the Israelites ever had to deal with some pride issues. Being God’s people could be a pretty big thing. A person could even get to thinking it was because of something he did or how great he was that he was chosen. As Moses explains to them about the job ahead of conquering the lands, he reminds the people of “why” they were chosen. Verse 7 says,
The Lord did not set his heart on you and choose you because you were more numerous than other nations, for you were the smallest of all nations. Rather it was simply that the Lord loves you, and he was keeping the oath he had sworn to your ancestors.
Israel wasn’t chosen for their might or strength. They were chosen because God loved them. In fact it sounds like they were the underdogs. How much more amazing would God’s working be.
Today is not any different. In Roman 5:8, Paul tells us that God loved us while we were still sinners. In I Corinthians 1, Paul explains that God’s best work is done through things that are despised by the world and counted as nothing. I guess that could make a person feel insecure but then again it is freeing. First of all, God loves me just because. I don’t have to work for His love. It is already there. Secondly, God’s expectation of me is that I will obey and let Him use me. I am not expected to do great things. He is going to do great things. He may do it through me or I may just get to watch but it is all about what God will do. God didn’t expect the Israelites to conquer the land on their own. In fact, chapter 7 explains that God would hand the nations over to them. Their job was to be obedient and follow Him.
On a personal note, this chapter has been a good reminder. This summer I have had more alone time. Sometimes this extra time has been good. Other times it has given me time to think about what skills I don’t have and what I am not good at. This thinking brings discouragement because I am focusing on me. This is not of God. God loves me. He will use me in His way and His time. I need to obedient and ready.
Dear God, Thank you you for your love. I don’t deserve it but am so glad for it. Be with me as I take steps of obedience. May I see you work in and around me as you conquer this land. Amen
TJ
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