Our scripture this morning is Joshua 8:34 (ESV).
And afterward he read all the words of the law, the blessing and the curse, according to all that is written in the Book of the Law.
The Lord knows we can be a forgetful people. He reminded us a number of times to keep His commandments in order to be in connection with Him. In Deuteronomy 11:31-32 we read “For you are to cross over the Jordan to go in to take possession of the land that the Lord your God is giving you. And when you possess it and live in it, you shall be careful to do all the statutes and the rules that I am setting before you today.” Later we hear “now Moses and the elders of Israel commanded the people, saying, ‘Keep the whole commandment that I command you today’” (Deuteronomy 27:1). Today’s verse records the people obeying that instruction as they take possession of the Promised Land. On one hand, it is sad that we need constant reminding of God’s love and His law, but on the other, it is a joy to recall the loving guidance we have been given.
Gracious God, You give us free will to choose, but also instruction to keep us from harm. Forgive us when we fail, and bless us to share Your love and care with all Your children. Amen.
