Deuteronomy chapter 5 verses 28-29 ( NIV)
The LORD heard you when you spoke to me, and the LORD said to me, “I have heard what this people said to you. Everything they said was good. Oh, that their hearts would be inclined to fear me and keep all my commands always, so that it might go well with them and their children forever!
The people of Israel made many promises over the course of their forty year journey in the wilderness, to be faithful to God and to follow His ways. But again and again they forgot their promises and grumbled against Him. God made it clear to Moses that He was not interested in their words and promises, what counted was the attitude of their heart. Just as God told Samuel that He didn’t look at the appearance of man but at his heart. The fact that this was an issue in the time of Moses reminds me that the nature of man hasn’t really changed – even today. I was struck at the tone of God’s words to Moses, which suggests that He was weary and disappointed at being let down so many times, yet He reminded the people through Moses’ words that it was for their benefit, and for their children also. He only ever wants the best for us.
It made me think of the many times I have said that I will do everything God asks of me. Yet I too have grumbled at times and dragged my feet. In the context of all God has done for me, and the sacrifice made by Jesus, it makes me sad to think of God being disappointed in me. It’s a good reminder to me of the fact that all God wants is for me to have the life that He intended, and for that I am truly grateful.
Dear Lord,
Thank You for all that You have done for me. Help me to keep my heart right before You and to remember that this is more important than what I say. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.