Stay With God And Enjoy The Benefits
Joshua the servant of God recounted his experience with God after he had lived 110 years, and had witnessed his faithfulness among Israelites. Joshua had seen how God miraculously led his people out of Egypt and brought them to the Promised Land. The Israelites' leader then advised his people to ensure they observe God's laws so that they can continue to receive his benefits. Joshua said,
“Therefore be very courageous to keep and to do all that is written in the Book of the Law of Moses, lest you turn aside from it to the right hand or to the left, and lest you go among these nations, these who remain among you. You shall not make mention of the name of their gods, nor cause anyone to swear by them; you shall not serve them nor bow down to them, but you shall hold fast to the Lord your God, as you have done to this day. For the Lord has driven out from before you great and strong nations; but as for you, no one has been able to stand against you to this day. One man of you shall chase a thousand, for the Lord your God is He who fights for you, as He promised you” (Joshua 23:6-10). Meanwhile, Joshua emphasized the significant consequence that Israelites would suffer if they disobey God. He said “Therefore it shall come to pass, that as all the good things have come upon you which the Lord your God promised you, so the Lord will bring upon you all harmful things, until He has destroyed you from this good land which the Lord your God has given you. When you have transgressed the covenant of the Lord your God, which He commanded you, and have gone and served other gods, and bowed down to them, then the anger of the Lord will burn against you, and you shall perish quickly from the good land which He has given you” (Joshua 23:15-16).
Lesson:
The goodness of God will not cease on people that consistently serve him. Those that observe his rules will not be neglected, but they shall be blessed. It is not possible for God to neglect his voices of children who prioritize his services; he will rather stand by them and show them his mercy. Truly, Jehovah will forever care for his people; he will provide for their needs, and ensure they have victory over their challenges. Meanwhile, people who refused to serve God, and those who have turned their back against him will suffer defeat from their enemies. God will not support a backslider since he can not promote evildoers! Backsliders expose themselves to enemies' attacks, and they will not earn God's benefits. Hence, it is advantageous to believe in God and serve him well. Anyone who claims to love God must confess his Son Jesus Christ as his/her Lord and personal Savior. Also, a backslider (who has turned his back against God) should repent and humbly return to his God to obtain salvation, grace, safety, joy, peace, and every other benefit available at his disposal. In as much God remains alive, whoever trusts and faithfully serve him will never be put to shame, but will triumph in all situations to testify to his goodness.
Prayer:
Dear God, I understand you love people who maintain a consistent relationship with you, and you will reward them for their good efforts; therefore, I ask for your grace to maintain faithful services before you at all times. Do not let me compromise my faith, but help me to maintain my testimony as a true Christian. Please keep my feet firm within your gate so that I can receive your help on earth, and also qualify for your eternal benefits in heaven. For in the name of Jesus Christ I make my requests. Amen.
