Watchman’s Daily Devotional: The Choice to Obey Is Clearly Laid Before Us. Instead of the Many Rules of the Old Testament Law, We Have the Leading of the Holy Spirit Who Indwells Us. We Choose to Obey or Disobey

Recently, the Prayer of Jabez has gained significant popularity (1 Chronicles 4:10). This prayer beautifully requests the Lord to transform our current circumstances into blessings. It is important to keep in mind that many blessings depend on our willingness to follow the right path. As believers of the New Testament, we highlight grace; however, this does not alter the principle conveyed in these verses. We continue to harvest the results of our actions. We cannot seek blessings while living in disobedience and anticipate that God will overlook our actions.

The decision to comply is distinctly presented to us. Rather than adhering to the many laws of the Old Testament Law, we are guided by the presence of the Holy Spirit within us. We have the option to comply or resist. We select either a curse or a blessing. It is unfortunate that we believe we can ask God to eliminate this just principle. It serves to dissuade us from wrongdoing and lead us toward a fulfilling existence.

What are these additional gods? They are those that assure abundance even in the face of defiance. The notion that the pleasure of sin extends beyond a fleeting moment is a falsehood. They present a different option to the straightforward decision between obedience and blessing or disobedience and curse. They are not telling the truth! Other gods are a hidden affliction.

Meditation: Following the path of obedience invites the blessings of God!

Deuteronomy 11:26-28 ²⁶See, I am setting before you today a blessing and a curse- ²⁷the blessing if you obey the commands of the LORD your God that I am giving you today; ²⁸the curse if you disobey the commands of the LORD your God and turn from the way that I command you today by following other gods, which you have not known.