Topic: Do Not Lose Your Head [Sunday December 10, 2017]
Text: Deuteronomy 18:8-13
Key Verse: “When thou art come into the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, thou shalt not learn to do after the abominations of those nations” (Deuteronomy 18:9).
There was a story of a successful man who always moved about with a particular box anywhere he went. People wondered endlessly about the contents of the box because he hardly ever opened it in the public glare. But there came a day when he had to unleash the mystery of the box. The only thing in the box was an old picture of his when he was ragged and wretched. Any time the feeling of pride overtook him, he went into a closet to look at the old picture as a constant reminder of his humble beginning.
There was a clear instruction to the children of Israel in our text that “When thou art come into the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee, thou shall not learn to do after the abominations of those nations” (Deuteronomy 18:9). But no sooner did they get to the Promised Land than they forgot all the instructions and started doing exactly what they were commanded against. An example was Saul, the first king in Israel, who went to inquire from the witch at Endor contrary to God’s directive in our text not to consult with familiar spirits or necromancers (Deuteronomy 18:10,11).
Many other kings after him soon followed suit, erecting high places for idol worship and leading the people in the wrong direction. Some who were very fervent and humble when they were nothing become proud at the slightest elevation. They have forgotten that their wealth and comfort here on earth do not equate with heaven’s grandeur in any way. Some others patronize Satan in order to keep the position given to them by God. What a pity! These things happen gradually.
A little carelessness here and there, and before long, the substance is gone. Hence, the warning not to go after the abominations of those nations (Deuteronomy 18:9). Believers are further encouraged to watch and pray lest they fall into temptation (Matthew 26:41).
Thought for the day: It is wisdom to always remember the Lord as the Architect of all goodness.
Bible Reading in one Year: Luke 20-21
DCLM Daily Manna was written by Pastor William Folorunso Kumuyi; is the founder and General Superintendent of the Deeper Life Bible Church situated at KM 42 on the busy Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Nigeria.
