Charles (Chuck) Kensinger

The blessings of the Lord are guaranteed in Deuteronomy 28 to the Israelites, but only if they obey all the laws of Jehovah.  These blessings are for protection, crops, children and in every conceivable method.  These blessings will come only as a result of obedience.

The opposite is also true.  If people do not follow Yahweh’s commands, they will not be blessed.  Rain will not come.  Crops will not grow.  Healthy children will not be born.  Their enemies will defeat them and drive them from their land.  If they do not follow the Lord’s leadership, the land will not continue to be theirs.

The Jews of today have the land of Canaan as their homeland again.  Despite this, many still live in lands all over the world.  This was part of their punishment for disobedience.  Another dimension is the unrest in the middle east today.  Had the Jews remained faithful to Yahweh, those troubles would not exist.

Our trek through Deuteronomy now comes to verse twenty-nine.  The covenant is renewed between the children of Israel and the two and a half tribes that have taken possession of the land on that side of the Jordan River.  They are reminded of the history of the escape from Egypt and the wandering in the wilderness.  God has been good, and He will continue to provide, but only if the people stay faithful.

Once again, the warning to avoid idolatry is made.  They are told how their lives, land, and livelihood will suffer when this happens.  The admonition to eliminate everything that might cause them to stray from Jehovah is repeated.  They have not crossed the Jordan yet, but they must be ready to fight these temptations.

©Copyright 2020 by Charles Kensinger