I have been reading Deuteronomy this month – much of the beginning of the book is Moses reminding the Israelites of the faithfulness and greatness of God. They were poised to enter the promised land and God had promised them He would hand over their enemies. He did not promise however that it would be easy. They had hard work in front of them and Moses worked at girding up their courage as he rehearsed all that God had done for them.
He brought them out of Egypt, He had helped them defeat every enemy God called them to fight, He fed them and even kept them clothed and free from the petty hurts of walking in the desert for 40+ years.
Deuteronomy 1:30-33; 8:2-4
The pastor of the church I grew up in preached one week on ‘polishing your monuments’. This is what Moses was doing. We never know what God might allow into our lives or ask us to step into; or when that might happen.
As we are here at the beginning of another new year – take some time to look back and polish your monuments. This last year God protected my health when a doctor had concerns, He grew patience and compassion in one family member for another, He was my comforter while I walked with multiple friends through the death of a loved one, and He showed me again that as friendships change because of life choices or distance – He is my true friend and a shared love for Him helps those relationships continue in spite of circumstances.
How has God been faithful in your life? Remind yourself of His ‘unfailing love and compassion’ and as you do; you will be strengthened and more prepared for whatever comes next.
