For the LORD thy God is a consuming fire, even a jealous God (Deuteronomy 4:24).
God had been so good to the children of Israel. He had delivered them “out of the iron furnace, out of Egypt, to be His people, His inheritance” (Deuteronomy 4:20). He was giving them the Promised Land as “an inheritance” (Deuteronomy 4:21).
Although Moses was prohibited from leading them into the Promised Land, he encouraged Israel to be faithful to God and not “forget the covenant of the LORD…God” (Deuteronomy 4:23). Their forgetfulness would lead to idolatry, and the consequences would be severe. Moses then reminded Israel with these sobering words, “For the LORD your God is a consuming fire, a jealous God” (Deuteronomy 4:24). The lesson for us is obvious; God will bless us if we obey Him and punish us if we disobey Him.
The book Meditations Of My Heart (from which this daily devotional is taken) is available / can be ordered from Sain Publications (931-363-6905 or email psain@sainpublications.com).