1. All the degradation and ruin of God’s people begins when they stop listening to the words of the Lord’s prophets. This was the case with Israel. Even though the Lord insisted on sending them warnings, the people despised them; thus, their hearts hardened. They fell into idolatry and were taken captive. Our blessing lies in listening to the word of the Lord (2 Chronicles 36:12, 15-16; 2 Peter 1:19).
2. Among the offerings that Abraham presented to God in Genesis 15:17, a stove and a torch appeared. The stove serves to refine, and the torch to illuminate. This indicates that we, descendants of Abraham, also go through sufferings to be purified and fulfill God’s will, and we need, more and more, to be illuminated by His word (Genesis 15:17; Deuteronomy 8:2; 2 Peter 1:19).
3. Taking possession of the land promised by God implied fighting. It wasn’t just about getting there and enjoying it. There was intense fighting to be done, because in the land of Canaan there were giants. Although today we live in such an enjoyable time in the church life, the Lord has also warned us that it is time to fight. Let us work for the kingdom! (Deut 3:11; 1:28-30).
4. “When we serve the Lord in rest, our burden will be light. Otherwise, we may succumb and fall in the desert. That is not God’s plan for us. Believe in the word and obey it. Take hold of the rest He has promised” (Hebrews 4:9-11) (Daily Bread, book 2, week 3, Sunday, p. 55).
Did you know that we also have kids’ immersion? Click here to do it with your child: KIDS IMMERSION