Dave's Diary

Daily Readings: Joshua 23 and Psalm 23

As Joshua prepared the people for his death, He reminded them not only that obedience and faithfulness to God would result in blessings, but also that God’s holiness was not to be taken lightly. Just as God would always keep His promises to bless, so too God would always keep His promises to withdraw His blessing. If they turned their backs on God, He would respect that choice and turn them over to their own devices; and He warned that this would bring disaster on them in the end.

We love to remember the promises of God’s blessing, but we all too often downplay the fact that, like any good parent, God promises consequences for disobedience and rebellion too. We need to heed these warnings if we are to remain in His blessing.

Heavenly Father, by Your grace please keep me near You at all times. I recognise my own tendency to drift away from You and grow lukewarm in my love. Please fill me daily with Your Spirit, and lead me in Your paths as my Good Shepherd. I don’t trust my own ability to stay faithful, but I trust You to keep me, comfort me and sustain me. Amen.