For what great nation is there that has a god so near to it as is the Lord our God whenever we call on Him?
Sound of the fury or two terriers. There was a time when we had two terriers who were not always fond of each other. Though they were small, they were feisty. I was walking through the kitchen one day when the one terrier upon seeing the other, decided that this was her time to shine and leave her mark. The pearly whites of her teeth began to gleam as she lifted her lip in utter disdain and latched on to her "companion" and would not let go. The usual verbal threats masked in the growling and snarling were not part of this fight; however, the sheer determination to defeat the opponent and win were certain. To say that I was concerned was an understatement. After quite a while of trying to pry the dogs apart and loosen the clenched teeth without success, I finally blurted out, "Jesus, help us!" It was at this exact moment that the one dog released her clench and the situation was resolved.
Draw Near to God
State of the Nation Address. As Moses was nearing the end of his time as leader of Israel he needed to remind the nation about God and His law. God was near. God not only took an interest in His chosen people but He loved them. (Deut. 7:7) As the people were commanded to worship God alone and not serve the gods of the land they were about to possess, Moses reminded them of the nearness of their God. The other nations could not claim that their god was near when they called. Israel could make this claim of God.
The Faithfulness of God. God was near when the terriers were fighting. Just as God was near to Israel whenever they called on Him, He draws near to us when we draw near to Him. When we call, we call to a God who hears -- it is a close call, not one that is far away. Drawing near to God allows Him to fill a void in our hearts that only He can fill and brings us into closer fellowship with Him. Close calls are His specialty! (James 4:8)
When we draw near to God, He draws near to us.
"God not only took an interest in His chosen people but He loved them." How quickly we forget...
ReplyDeleteAgreed Christan -- so easy to forget His love.
DeleteNot unlike Israel, we fall into the trap of religious living without a real connection with God. Then, hardship or difficulty comes and we cry out - discovering that HE has been near all the time. How empty our lives would be if we never had to struggle. Praise God for two terriers.
ReplyDeleteAmen -- the struggles are such a kind and generous reminder! Thanks for sharing Rev. Michael Duncan.
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