See, I set before you today life and prosperity, death and destruction. (Deut. 30:15)
Expanded Passage: Deuteronomy 30:15-18
Choice. In my American context, the freedom to choose my own adventure is as reliable as the setting of the sun. From the moment I wake up, I’m met with choices. Do I snooze just a few minutes more? Which food sounds good for breakfast: healthy oatmeal or the quick pastry? Will I pause and be still with the Lord before rushing into my day? Will I acknowledge that he sustains me as I make business and family decisions, click the payment button as I shop online, and choose which car to drive? Will I notice my neighbor across the street, whose help I don’t need in order to survive this day, or will I glance and then avert my eyes without saying hello? Will I remember that the Lord is God, and I am not?
The Israelites likely didn’t have nearly as many choices each day. They certainly hadn’t the option to choose their breakfast food or clothing style yet. But as they prepared to enter and possess this promised land—the Lord’s choice for them and their ancestors long before—these loved children of God were faced with a grave decision that would seal their future fate. They’d learned to follow and trust their Lord through their wilderness years. Would they wisely choose to live and love in his ways for their settling and flourishing years?
Will we?
Don’t make it complicated. Choose the life God offers you.
Jamie Hilty lives in northern Indiana with her pastor-husband Josh. She spends her days reading aloud to her kids, planning retreats, and avoiding the dishes.
© 2025 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
