Introductory Thoughts
The Lord desired a special relationship with the nation of Israel choosing to bless them both spiritually and physically above all other nations. One such blessing involved bringing them safely into the land of Canaan. However, many of these blessings were dependent upon Israel maintaining the right type of relationship with the Lord. He, therefore, issued several commandments for the Israelites to carefully keep (i.e., Deuteronomy chapter 11). The Lord desired for Israel to “hearken diligently” (Deuteronomy 11:13) and “diligently keep” (Deuteronomy 11:22) these commandments. He wanted His people to carefully listen when He spoke, giving God their full attention (listening to every word). He also wanted them to attentively obey what they heard. He always desired for His people to listen to and obey Him. God speaks today through the Bible. He still wants men to diligently hear and obey.
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): James 1:22 says, "Be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only." When God tells us to do something, what should we do? When we hear what mom or dad tell us to do, what should we do?
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(For everyone): Have you ever been speaking to someone and noticed that they are not listening to you? How does that make you feel? Do you desire to continue speaking to them or just stop? How important is it to God that we listen to Him? Are you diligently hearkening unto His words?
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Are you putting forth the right effort to hear the words of God? Are you putting forth the right amount of effort to obey what you hear?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask God to strengthen your desire to hear and to obey His words.
- Ask God to give you a love for His word as found in Psalm 119.
Song
DARE TO BE A DANIEL
