Deuteronomy 28 is a popular chapter known for the blessings that God pronounced upon the children of Israel. The first 14 verses are beautiful blessings and promises from God to His children. They are, however, premised on a condition; that the children of Israel shall hearken diligently to the voice of God, and do all He has commanded them. We see the consequences of not obeying the commandments as the chapter has 54 more verses which are a flipside and the consequences of what happens when they don’t follow God’s instructions.
In Acts 20:17-38, Paul had gathered the elders of the church in Ephesus to admonish them, reminding them of how he has served faithfully and how they should do the same despite the series of trials he faced from Jewish leaders. He also encouraged them to look out for one another.
Furthermore, he encouraged them to watch over and guard the church against false preachers whose aim is to mislead the church. Paul also commends the elders to God’s grace, emphasizing that their focus should not be on wealth, but on helping the weak.
Apostle Paul’s commitment to ministry reminds us of the commitment we should have to God’s calling, the importance of sound doctrine, and the responsibility believers share in Christ.
Prayer: Lord, strengthen the church leaders and help them to serve you selflessly
Today’s reading
Deuteronomy 28
“Now it shall come to pass, if you diligently obey the voice of the Lord your God, to observe carefully all His commandments which I command you today, that the Lord your God will set you high above all nations of the earth.
And all these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, because you obey the voice of the Lord your God:
“Blessed shall you be in the city, and blessed shall you be in the country.
Acts 20:17-38
From Miletus he sent to Ephesus and called for the elders of the church.
And when they had come to him, he said to them: “You know, from the first day that I came to Asia, in what manner I always lived among you,
serving the Lord with all humility, with many tears and trials which happened to me by the plotting of the Jews;