Dr.Tiong advised that he usually think of 2
Timothy 33:16-17 which says that
(paraphrase) the Word of God is God-breathed and is good for teaching, rebuking
etc. Psalm 119:105-His Word is lamp unto
our feet and lamp unto our path. He said
as we look around what is going on in this world, we really need to be reminded
of Psalm 119:105.
Exhortation
to Remember
The Book of Deuteronomy has a lot of
repetitions because God wanted to remind the Israelites. Moreover, those who came out of Egypt have
died. Moses are facing the new
generation who had no experience of the slavery in Egypt.
1. Provisions of God
2.
Dependence on God
The Israelites who left Egypt were taken
care by God, manna rained down from the sky, their sandals did not wear out, it
was amazing that their legs were not swollen (perhaps evidence of healthy
nutrition) from the constant walking. At
night they were led by pillars of fire and during the day led by pillar of
smoke. God led the Israelites for 40
years in the desert. Preparing them to
enter the Promised Land.
Purpose
of Wilderness
God wanted to teach the people to be humble
by putting them through the wilderness.
While in the wilderness, they were totally dependent on God for all
their needs. Like their foods, God
provide manna. God also wanted to
prepare them for things that were to come.
It is important for them to follow God commands. God’s commands were the standards they have
to follow. Similarly for us today.
Be
Careful to Follow
God reminded the Israelites to be careful
to follow God’s commands. He repeated
what He said to them.
Deut 8:7-20
Exhortation
not to forget God
God warned the Israelites not to forget
Him, otherwise they will be destroyed like the surrounding nations that did not
believe in God. This was a stern and
serious warning which we today is also to follow.
Danger
of Prosperity
Prosperity is dangerous. People usually do not come to God until when
they are sick. It is also more difficult
for prosperous people to come to God.
Jesus Himself said it was easier for a camel to enter through the eye of
the needle than for rich people to enter heaven. He also said “What is the point to gain the
whole world when we lose our souls?” No doubt there is nothing wrong with
prosperity, but do not allowed prosperity to control us. We must have God’s perspective.
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