Israelites are lectured by Moses

Deuteronomy Chapter 7

Moses told the people that when they entered the new land, the Lord would clear away many nations ahead of them. these were seven nations more powerful than the Israelites and when God handed them over, the Israelites must destroy them, make no treaties with them and show them no mercy. He asked that they not intermarry with them and do not let their daughters and sons marry their sons and daughters. Because their young people would lead the Israelite young people away from God. Instead they must break down the idols and burn them.

The Israelites, Moses said, were chosen not because they were larger or greater than other nations, but because he loved them and was keeping the oath he swore to their ancesters. The Lord is a faithful God who keeps his covenant and constantly loves those who love him and obey his commands. But he does not hesitate to punish and destroy those who hate him.

Listen to these regulations and obey them faithfully and the Lord will keep his covenant of unfailing love with you. He will love and bless you and make you a great nation.He will give you many children and make your land and animals fertile. You will have large crops and none of your people will be childless and you will be protected from sickness. The Lord will not let you suffer from terrible disease, but will bring them on your enemies.

Perhaps you think if difficult to conquer these nations that are more powerful than you, said Moses. But don't be afraid of them. Rememmber what the Lord your God did to Pharoah and all the land of Egypt. He can use this same power over people you fear.

Burn the idols of other nations in fire and do not desire the silver or gold with which they are made. Do not take it or it will became a snare to you, for it is detestable to the Lord.

BIBLE NOTES SHOW many people question how the God of love and mercy could wipe out the children of the enemy. Although he is a God of mercy, he is also just. God does not allow evil to continue unchecked. this command to kill all the people, was a protective order for Israel, so it would not be tempted by idolatry and immorality.

God had the power to destroy all the nations at once. But instead he chose to have the people do it in stages. Just as he could change your life with miracles, he chooses to help you gradually, teaching you one lesson at a time. Then you can look back and see the transformation that has ocurred.

Moses warned of becomeing insnared in the desire for gold or silver from the idols. It is not right to be close to sin even if we do not participate. Being close can hurt us as we can become attratcted and may give in to it.

How does this chapter relate to us today? I like the way Moses tells that the Lord changes us in stages. He lets us learn our lessons along the way. Most of us learn from our mistakes, don't we? And knowing the Lord will be there for us, to pick us up and dust us off to learn over again is so great!

Some of us like to be close to sin but not participate. We like to read about witchcraft. We like to dabble in astrology or other such "dark sciences". But we can be burned, so it is imperative that we clear our homes of items that may "snare" us.

Yours in Christ,
Mary