Choosing Life

I have read today`s scripture many, many times and even preached on it in several countries, yet it still manages to impact me. Not only does it make a great memory verse, it`s also a directive from God that we can`t afford to ignore. We`re presented with two choices – life and death, blessing and cursing – and the correct choice seems obvious. Of course we`re going to choose life, aren`t we! Why would we choose death and cursing? That would be ludicrous, idiotic and plain stupid! Why would anyone in their right mind choose `bad` when `good` is offered. Yet so often we do. The Israelites did so, generation after generation, and bore the consequences for their choice. So do we.

How often have we chosen hatred over forgiveness, sinful behaviour over righteous living and disobedience over obedience to God? More times than we want to remember I suspect. Without the help of God we`re destined to make the wrong choice, but, with God, we can choose life, and the blessings that accompany that choice. That is what God desires for each of His children. I`ve discovered that there`s a direct correlation between obedience and trust. If we really believe that God is trustworthy and He`s the rewarder of those who diligently seek Him, then we will obey Him. We will choose to walk in His ways, because we have a conviction that He will keep His side of the bargain. The blessings that come from obeying God greatly outweigh the temporal pleasures of disobedience. May God open your spiritual understanding to this fact and grant you the courage to obey Him in all things, both great and small.

When I read today`s verses, the words `choose life` flashed at me like a siren on a police car or ambulance. The impact was undeniable. God yelled at me from the pages of my bible, `Sue, choose life, choose life, choose life! I want to bless you and use your life to bless others, but that can only happen if you walk in obedience to me.` I wonder what He`s saying to you.

Prayer: Father God, I hear Your challenge to me today and I choose life! Thank You that You will help me to do this, because You want what’s best for me. Amen.