Way of Life – or Death?
“Thus says the Lord: ’Behold, I set before you the way of life and the way of death.’” (Jeremiah 21:8-9)
The children of Israel had spent forty years wandering in the wilderness, struggling to reach their goal – the Promised Land. Even then, when they had an opportunity to enter in, they chose to believe the “evil report” of ten of the twelve men sent to spy out the land (Numbers 14:27). Now, after forty more years had passed, and the original generation of unbelievers had died off, they had to face the same choice.
Joshua, who was one of the two original believing spies, laid it on the line. In essence, he said, “Okay guys, here’s the deal. God’s giving you a choice: life or death, blessing or cursing.
Here’s the deal if you choose life and blessing:
Your part: Obey the Lord’s commands.
God’s part: Abundant life to you and your descendents;
Multiplication of your nation’s population;
You inherit the land He promised to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob;
Blessing and prosperity within the land you inherit.
And this is the “bargain” you make if you choose death and cursing:
Your part: Disobedience to the Lord’s commands.
The enemy’s part – Deception:
Worship of false gods, bringing bondage;
Sickness and death, both naturally and spiritually;
Shortened years of meaningful life;
Loss of God’s supernatural provision, healing and help.
Jesus presented the same deal for us to consider…
In John 10:10 He laid it out this way: “The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. (That’s the enemy’s offer) I (Jesus) have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.”
Hmmm….death and cursing, or life and blessing.
Sounds like a “no-brainer” to me!
Recommended Reading: Deuteronomy 30:11-20
Daily Encouragement: Which way will you choose? The enemy’s way steals your peace, purpose, health and blessing. You inherit death – the kind that lasts for eternity. And your final “benefit” is destruction of all hope. Jesus’ way offers “abundant life” – forgiveness, peace, joy, purpose, healing, deliverance, blessing – and, eternal life!
Bill Prankard Evangelistic Association E-Newsletter – Go to the website here>