To Serve with Devotion in GOD.. Deu1

The Israelites spent 40years on a journey that should have lasted 11days. It wasnt distance that stood between them and the promised land. It was the condition if their hearts. God's purpose went deeper than simply transporting a huge group of people to a new land. HE was preparing them to live in obedience to HIM once they arrive.

What good was the promised land if the Israelites were just as wicked as the nations already living there? The journey was a painful but necessary part of their preparation. Through it God taught the Israelites who HE was: The Living God; the Leader of the nation. HE also taught them who they were: people who were fallen, sinful, prone to rebellion and doubt. HE gave HIS rebeliious people the law to help them understand how to relate to God, and to other people.

Your spiritual pilgrimage may be lengthy, and you may face pain, discouragement, and difficulties. But remember that God isnt just trying to keep you alive, HE wants to prepare you to live for service and devotion to HIM.