May 17, 2020
What does it say?
Moses addressed the people of Israel, telling them they were not entering the Promised Land because of their own righteousness, but because of the wickedness of the Canaanites.
What does it mean?
Through Moses, God wanted to make sure that the people of Israel were moving forward with humility and full reliance on the grace and mercy of God. Moses reminded them that they had been complaining and grumbling since they had left Egypt. He wanted to make sure the Israelites were fully aware that it was God’s grace making a way for them in the land of Canaan and not because of anything they had done. God was honoring His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.
How should I respond?
We can be tempted to think that we are entitled to certain things, such as getting a promotion or being treated a certain way. We may even think we’ve earned forgiveness for our sin. But like the Israelites in today’s passage, we have no righteousness of our own. If not for the grace of God, salvation would be impossible. Sometimes pride prevents us from humbly turning to God in thankfulness. Is there something you feel you deserve? How might your pride be involved in those feelings? Take a moment to reflect on the grace and mercy of God. Thank Him for everything He’s provided, both spiritually and materially. Ask God to promote your cause in His time and for His reasons.