"Now behold, today I am going the way of all the earth, and you know in all your hearts and in all your souls that not one word of all the good words which the LORD your God spoke concerning you has failed; all have been fulfilled for you, not one of them has failed. It shall come about that just as all the good words which the LORD your God spoke to you have come upon you, so the LORD will bring upon you all the threats, until He has destroyed you from off this good land which the LORD your God has given you” (Joshua 23:14-15).
In chapter 23, Joshua is sharing some final words with the leaders of Israel as the time for his passing draws near. He reminds them of all that had been accomplished because God had been fighting for them. He encourages them to remain true to God and to avoid the tempting allure of pagan influences. He clearly warns them of the consequences of disobeying God. And, according to Joshua, all of his reminders, encouragements, and warnings are rooted in a foundational fact: God keeps His word.
A God who keeps His word can be a mixed blessing, depending on one’s relationship with Him. If I am seeking to love God and cling to Him in my life, I have nothing to fear from a God Who keeps His word. But if I choose to cling to the world and reject His instructions, I have every reason to dread a God Who keeps His word. The same God who speaks words of blessing and comfort to the faithful also speaks words of threat and warning to the unfaithful. And rest assured that He will keep every word -- good or bad. God issues no idle blessings or idle threats.
Lord, please help me to live my life in such a way that I will never have to live in fear of any word You speak. Thank You for being a God who honors His Word.
God loves you!
Mike
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