There’s a bit of repetition in today’s reading, but Moses is clear in his instruction to the people. We must always keep in mind that Moses’ words are a message from God. The two things that strike me here are that God will clear away those evil people, and that the Israelites are to totally destroy them and not intermarry with them.
Why is God doing this for these people? He loves them, and he is being true to his word. His promise goes all the way back to Abraham, and the love story continues with these wilderness roamers. Do they realize how privileged they are to be set apart by God? The rest of these peoples, those stronger in the land, are soon to be destroyed. God created them, too, but his love and his word are what matter. That’s what integrity looks like.
God could have simply done away with the people living in the land, but he didn’t. The Israelites were still going to need to obey God to get the prize. We could say it will mean more to them if they have to put up a bit of a fight. I’ve heard parents use this logic for why they don’t pay for their children’s college education. It won’t mean as much to them when they graduate if they haven’t had to work for it to some degree.
The people are going to witness God’s amazing power again, even though they have to put in a little effort, too. It will become obvious to them, if it wasn’t already, that the people they are about to conquer are more powerful than them. The Israelite nation is small by comparison. Their victory will depend on God. Do you think they were fearful even though they knew God had made this promise to them?
The message we should take away from this is that God’s love and integrity can be relied upon. He will make a way for us, too. I love the lyrics of Don Moen’s song, “God Will Make A Way.” It came to me during our worship pre-service yesterday.
Oh, God will make a way….Where there seems to be no way. He works in ways we cannot see, He will make a way for me. He will be my guide, hold me closely to His side. With love and strength for each new day, He will make a way, He will make a way. By a roadway in the wilderness, He’ll lead me, and rivers in the desert will I see. Heaven and Earth will fade but His word will still remain. and He will do something new today.
So, there we have it. God is still at work supporting his people. He is clearing a path for us. It’s exciting to imagine. What does God have in store for us? God is still faithful. We need to be ready to conquer our own foes and challenges knowing God is fighting with us.
Let’s pray … Lord, thank you for being in the battle with me. Thank you for not leaving me alone to fight my own battles. Help me remember to crush all of my limiting beliefs that are holding me back. With your help, I can do so much more. May I open my eyes to see the direction you want me to go. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
