Chapter 10 of Deuteronomy addresses how we should respond to all the many blessings we have as we live in a land of plenty, a land of beauty, a land that we all can share. Chapter 9 reminded me that I don’t deserve such incredible blessing; it’s not because of my righteousness. It’s simply a matter of God’s grace. If I got what I deserved, I’d be in trouble. I expect you might be also. But, in spite of being “stiff necked” people as chapter 9 pointed out, God continues to rest his blessing on us. The reality of the good land, and the realization of it as a gracious gift to undeserving people, enhances the thankfulness in each of us.
Chapter ten tells us to “circumcise, therefore… our hearts, and be no longer stubborn.” God is good and He only has our good foremost in mind. He loves to give us, undeserving folk, great things. His intentions are always for our good. That’s why he gives us instructions on how to live. He truly wants what’s best for us. He clearly says that in Verses 12 and 13. Moses tells us “what does the Lord require of you, but to fear the Lord your God, to walk in all his ways, to love him,
to serve the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul, and to keep the commandments and statutes of the Lord, which I am commanding you today.” But he closes verse 13 with another interesting insight, just three little words that say so much to me, if I can just soften my neck, circumcise my heart, and let them sink in. They are these: “…for your good.”
As I enjoy the land of plenty, the land of beauty, and the land we all can share, it’s obvious that God only has good intentions for me. I hope I can respond appropriately.