March 13, 2012 (Deuteronomy 22-24; Galatians 4)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “But the Lord your God refused to listen to Balaam. He turned the intended curse into a blessing because the Lord your God loves you.” Deuteronomy 23:5 NLT
Observation: Moses reminds the children of Israel of a time when God moved on their behalf. When they came out of Egypt the Ammonites would not let them pass through their land and attacked them only to be slaughtered by the children of Israel. When the children of Israel approached the Moabites they offered them no food or water and would not let them pass through their towns either. King Balak hired Balaam to curse the children of Israel, but God used Balaam to bless the children of Israel instead. God has a wonderful way of turning what the enemy meant as harm into good.
Application: How wonderful it is to know God is on your side! It’s only a slight thing for God to move on your behalf. He is known for making a way, where there seems to be no way. With just a word uttered from the lips of God, He can turn what satan meant as harm into a wonderful blessing of mercy and grace. He turns what satan desires as harm, into a blessing because He loves you. Yes God loves you. Not because you earn it, not because you deserve it, but simply because this is what brings Him pleasure. He loves you because loving is what God likes to do! His strong right arm has no equal and His mercy and grace provide and protect His children, because He loves them.
Prayer: Dear Lord, sometimes it’s hard to remember all the times You’ve moved on my behalf. Thank You for these reminders You give to me in the scriptures. I’m ashamed to say many times I’ve failed to even recognize and acknowledge how You have moved on my behalf, but I do so now. Father, please forgive me. Thank You for all the times You turned what satan meant as harm into blessings for me. I praise You for who You are! You are the awesome God of heaven and above You there is no other! Your strong right arm has no equal and rises to fight for Your beloved children. Thank You for Your mercy and grace that provide and protect me daily, in Jesus name rise up and fight for me now, Amen!