Deuteronomy 28 is one of the hardest chapters to read and I find myself cringing. The first third describes the blessings found in obeying God; then the huge bulk describes the curses in rejecting God. It’s easy to think in reading this that God will personally punish and bring to ruin all who dare to disobey.

And yet, the chapter goes on to describe exactly what happened to Israel in later centuries when she would be taken into captivity. Jesus also warned of the coming destruction to Jerusalem to those weeping for Him as He made His way to crucifixion. Matthew 23:37-39. Does that mean they wanted these awful things to happen? Do you want awful things to happen when you warn your children against dangers they can’t appreciate fully?

They are warning us about what sins bring.

Contrast that with the good that God is.

Those who live according to the flesh have their minds set on what the flesh desires; but those who live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on what the Spirit desires. The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace. Romans 8:5-6.

Life and peace. Can you imagine that everywhere? Can you imagine the blessings for all people not just you and your loved ones? In this day and age it’s hard to fathom. We live in a world bearing the weight of sins.

For I am the Lord who heals you. Exodus 15:26. He himself bore our sins in his body on the cross, so that we might die to sins and live for righteousness; by his wounds you have been healed. I Peter 2:24-24.

Only God can heal our hearts and minds. We resist…oh how we resist as though giving up something precious and dear not realizing how sick we are in our sins. Life and peace found only in God who heals us.

He’s willing to help you now. Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28. Life and peace. Rest in the care of our Lord who loves us and heals us. He is faithful.

What I’m learning in my walk with God is how much He loves each of us; not the hurts we cause ourselves and others, but us His children. He helps me see His love and I know we are safe in His plan of redemption. He won’t leave us in our sins. He loves us too much. Life and peace.