March 3, 2021 Our Daily Bread Devotional : Topic – Preserved
Read previous Our Daily Bread Devotionals here
Bible in a Year:
The Lord himself goes before you : Deuteronomy 31:8
Today’s Scripture : Deuteronomy 31:1–8
Insight
God’s promise never to leave or forsake the Israelites as they enter the promised land (Deuteronomy 31:8) is in fulfillment of His promises to their ancestors (v. 7). God promised Abraham that his descendants would inherit the land of Canaan after four hundred years in slavery in Egypt (Genesis 15:13; 17:8). And He brought Israel out of slavery so they could trust Him as they entered the promised land.
Centuries later, those who are believers in Jesus are also regarded as children of Abraham and share in His inheritance of the whole world (Romans 4:13). Just as God promised to be with Israel as they took hold of their inheritance (Deuteronomy 31:6; Hebrews 13:5), so He’ll be with us (Matthew 28:20).
Message : While I was clearing out the garden in preparation for spring planting, I pulled up a large clump of winter weeds . . . and leapt into the air! A venomous copperhead snake lay hidden in the undergrowth just below my hand—an inch lower and I would have grabbed it by mistake. I saw its colorful markings as soon as I lifted the clump; the rest of it was coiled in the weeds between my feet.
When my feet hit the ground a few feet away, I thanked God I hadn’t been bitten. And I wondered how many other times He had kept me from dangers I never knew were there.
God watches over His people. Moses told the Israelites as they prepared to enter the promised land, “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged” (Deuteronomy 31:8). They couldn’t see God, but He was with them nonetheless.
Sometimes difficult things happen that we may not understand, but we can also reflect on the number of times God has preserved us without our ever being aware!
Scripture reminds us that His perfect, providential care remains over His people every day. He’s always with us (Matthew 28:20).
Reflect & Pray
How does the biblical truth that God watches over His people comfort you? Who can you tell about His faithfulness today?
Faithful Father, thank You for watching over me every day. Please give me grace to walk closely with You in everything I do today.