The other day I read two passages in Deuteronomy and Numbers with similar messages. These Old Testament passages prompted me to consider the consequences that result when we intentionally disobey God, His Word and His instructions.
Let’s take a look at how two accounts in these Old Testament books reveal this truth. But as we do, keep in mind that we’re considering the physical, earthly consequences of our disobedience, not the eternal consequences of sin for which Jesus made salvation possible.
In Deuteronomy 1:26-46, Moses recounted how the Israelites had balked at God’s provision and “refused to trust the LORD” (Deuteronomy 1:32). Because they disobeyed and would not enter the land when God told them to, He postponed their entry into it for 40 years.
Later, the Israelites had grown tired of wandering in the desert and began complaining. Discontented with God’s timing, they prepared to head to the Promised Land on their own terms. They took things into their own hands and attacked their enemies, though they had been warned by the Lord, “Do not attack, for I am not with you. If you go ahead on your own, you will be crushed by your enemies” (Deuteronomy 1:42). And, indeed, when they attacked they were crushed and defeated. “The Amalekites and the Canaanites who lived in those hills came down and attacked them and chased them back as far as Hormah” (Deuteronomy 1:45).
When we choose words and actions that go against God’s will and His clear instruction, we reap the consequences. Instead, may we increasingly pray and seek God’s wisdom before we speak or act.
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Genesis 8:1-22
More:
Read Luke 11:28 and see what Jesus says about people who take in God’s Word and faithfully put it into practice.
Next:
Ready to lash out at someone with your words? Consider God’s commands, and then choose to do what is right in His eyes. What will prevent you from being crushed by willful God-dishonoring decisions today?
inchristalone on January 6, 2015 at 4:46 am
Thank you Roxanne.
It so amazing but this exhortation speaks to exactly to where am at in my life now.
I have major life changing decisions to make concerning my family life and my work and have been pleading with God for mercy and wisdom to make a discerning decision.
I really need God’s revelation to take the right step because ” there is a way that seemeth right but leads to destruction…”
It really frustrating not knowing what God wants me to do……knowing that i will reap the consequences if He does not lead me!
Gary Shultz on January 6, 2015 at 6:51 am
These are perplexing things. The account of God clearly instructing Israel is rather straight forward; however, I have often been where Inchristalone has been and time demanded a decision. I can also say I just made a choice not knowing if I was correct or not. I occasionally wonder how that did or did not change the path of my life. The strange thing is I think God wants us to ask these questions and be in these situations. Knowing what we will do, God has permitted us to take that step. One thing I know for sure God ‘s love will never fail even if we drop the ball, even if we felt we had no clear direction, God will break through in His time. If we balance what we know about God and clearly make no choice to oppose His word, I do not believe God will crush us for making a choice. I think sometimes He wants us to choose carefully. Maybe one of the ODJ folks will give us better insight. Thanks, these are great things to think on.
nattykins on January 6, 2015 at 7:39 am
Good Morning-
I agree. Definitely needed to hear that. I too am facing some upcoming major life decisions myself in the coming months and I struggle to know if it is indeed Gods’ will for my life. Prayers would be much appreciated. God Bless.
Roxanne Robbins on January 6, 2015 at 1:47 pm
While my post refers to the consequences the Israelites faced when they disobeyed God, when I read the Old Testament passages I found myself considering consequences I’ve experienced when I’ve disobeyed God or neglected to seek His counsel first.
In way of example, I’ve fired off a couple texts and emails that I wish I’d prayed about before sending. Had I sought God first, it’s certain my words would have been less emotive and more constructive.
While I don’t believe God crushes us for our mistakes, I’ve found when we neglect to seek God’s counsel and instead react hastily to real or perceived slights or hurts, we’re more likely to crush rather than encourage someone’s heart.
seeking777always on January 7, 2015 at 11:39 am
I have personally witnessed the consequences leaving God out of the decisions we make on a daily basis. It is never very enlightening. When we leave God out of our lives we really have nothing to live for do we?
I know the experiences I have witnessed and even been involved in have had some pretty intense consequences.
I also know though that in-spite of the fact that we as humans have a tenancy to do this without even realizing it God is always willing to forgive and guide us back to the path of righteousness.