God has so many promises for His children showing the depth of His commitment and love for them.
In Leviticus 26-27, numerous blessings are bestowed upon the Israelites. However, these blessings come with conditions that require commitment from the people. Those who choose to walk in obedience do not engage in immorality, idol worship, or other vices. Therefore, obedience to God demonstrates our love and commitment; while this alone is significant, blessings are also linked to our obedience.
It is true that many people do things just for show. In the sense that they carry out laudable actions to keep up appearances rather than sincerity. This was the case of Ananias and Sapphira in our new testament reading for today. Having seen the commendable acts by the members of the church; the selling of properties to be brought to the Apostles for sharing, they decided to do the same. However, they lied so it would look like they sacrificed all their gain for the church.
It is quite sad how they ended as it was an unnecessary lie because whatever they brought would have been greatly appreciated. They only craved the recognition they hoped to get. This shows us that while the act may matter, God sees the motive behind it.
Prayer: By the wisdom of God, I do things based on my honour for God and not for the applause of men.
Today’s reading
Leviticus 26-27
‘You shall not make idols for yourselves; neither a carved image nor a sacred pillar shall you rear up for yourselves; nor shall you set up an engraved stone in your land, to bow down to it; for I am the Lord your God.
You shall keep My Sabbaths and reverence My sanctuary: I am the Lord.
‘If you walk in My statutes and keep My commandments, and perform them,
Acts 4:23-5:11
And being let go, they went to their own companions and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said to them.
So when they heard that, they raised their voice to God with one accord and said: “Lord, You are God, who made heaven and earth and the sea, and all that is in them,
who by the mouth of Your servant David have said:‘Why did the nations rage, And the people plot vain things?