June 29, 2023 – GOD PROTECTS

READ: Ps. 62

There is no one like the God of Jeshurun, … The eternal God is your refuge, And underneath are the everlasting arms; He will thrust out the enemy from before you, … Then Israel shall dwell in safety, … In a land of grain and new wine;… – Deut. 33:26-28

After the impressive song of Ch. 32, we read the last words of Moses. These are not words of threat and judgment, but of blessing, and the very last ones especially of praise. Moses calls Israel “Jeshurun,” an honorary name whose meaning is not entirely clear (see also 32:15). Nevertheless, Israel should not boast in its name, but in its God. He is the One and only eternal God, the Almighty, who oversees everything and provides for everything. Only He himself will give them rest and peace in the promised land.

When the 12 spies had explored Canaan Israel had been afraid and provoked God’s anger. Let Israel trust in their God now! He is the heavenly helper. He drives away their enemies. Then they will prosper. For God is always their refuge, a dwelling place where they are safe and rich. He does not give us a dwelling, but is our dwelling. So close is the LORD we can readily find protection and rest in Him. Not just sometimes or occasionally, but constantly: “underneath are the everlasting arms.” Like a child, we are carried by God’s mighty caring arms through everything.

Ps. 145:4 (rhymed) “Thou art a help and stay to those who fall; the lowly ones Thou liftest when they call.

God gives His blessing to all who love Him. In Israel, that also meant grain and new wine (v.28) . We should especially see this spiritually. Like Ps. 36 (rhymed) says: Thou shalt them to Thy feasts invite, They drink of streams of Thy delight, Thy precious love they cherish.

Do you experience it as a blessing to be a child of God?

Singing: Ps. 91:1