What Will We Really Choose?
- Leon Mazin
- Sep 29, 2022
- 2 min read
Return to Zion Congregation
Haifa, Israel
The Torah passage “Behold” (Re’eh) leads to some conclusions that are as relevant now as when they were first written:
“Behold, I offer you today a blessing and a curse: a blessing if you obey the commandments of the Lord your God which I command you today, but a curse if you do not obey the commandments of the Lord your God…” (Deuteronomy 11:26-28)
Choosing Obedience = Choosing Blessing
The commandments of the Lord were never intended to bring us salvation. Salvation is God's sovereign action based on His mercy and love for us. However, obedience is our appropriate response; and not only that, obeying God’s commands also determines the quality of our life. Living a life of habitually acting according to His commands puts us on a track of blessing. Today, some young adults seek extreme adrenaline sports, but as soon as a person gets older, he begins to appreciate a secure, orderly and peaceful existence. And this is achieved in God’s grace by simply doing what the Lord has commanded!
Keeping the commandments not only leads to blessings and success. It also protects us from witchcraft, heresies, and delusions. Let’s continue with Deuteronomy 13:1-3:
“If a prophet or a dreamer arises among you and presents you with a sign or a miracle, and the sign or miracle that he spoke to you comes to pass; and he says, ‘Let us go after other gods, which you do not know, and we will serve them,’ then listen not to the words of this prophet, or this dreamer; for by this the LORD your God is testing you…”
Constantly walking in the commandments of the Lord develops immunity against lies – even those of a “prophet or dreamer” who may seem genuinely anointed or attract lots of attention or assume a role of mediator in place of the Messiah.
Our faith is not based on miracles. Even though miracles do occur, they are not the absolute indicator. Pharaoh’s magi also performed miracles. We are commanded to look directly to the Lord. If a miracle happens from the Lord, glorify Him; and if there is no miracle, obey and thank Him for the fact that He lives in our hearts and watches over us.
Moses warned us with the words, “the LORD your God is testing you.” Do not deviate into lies. Show faith and loyalty! Choose well!
