Should You Possess...
The land of Israel was a beautiful place, obtained through conquests and favor from GOD. Years before God promised that he would give to Abraham a land of milk and honey. Possessions that would represent the favor of GOD, and the land that stretched from Gaza to the sea was that possession. But those possessions would be contingent on there obedience to GOD. Mankind ever mindful that the LORD giveth and the LORD taketh away. Losing the favor of the LORD was not just about lost possession, but about losing the possessor of life's favor. Disobedience destroys beauty and favor, if GOD is not smiling at you then he is frowning at you---I don't have to tell you that's not good for you or your health. Ezekiel 33:23-33 GOD ASK ISREAL SHALL THEY POSSESS IT? SHALL DISOBEDIENCE AND REBELLION POSSESS OR KEEP WHAT GOD HAS GIVEN? the answer is NO! No one that rebels, not obeying GOD shall keep his possession-- even if GOD loved them and favored them. GOD's clear instructions are found starting in Deuteronomy in the 26th chapter through chapter 28.
I am reminded in my own life, marked by the loss of happiness, peace, and possessions; when GOD is not pleased the loss of favor means the loss of a abundant life. Ezekiel had to prophesy to a people that had been use to GOD's favor--- that they are not GOD's favorite anymore. Only turning from their wicked ways would cause GOD to show them mercy. Until then each man will be judged according to his own ways. The watchmen was selected for this very reason that he may warn the people of GOD's judgement and overt a divine massacre. Job warned Nineveh and they wore sackcloth and ashes so GOD spared them. Surely, the people of GOD would be devastated and turn from their wickedness. GOD will not have to strip them bare and they will not have to withstand desolation. These humbled farmers that the LORD gave courage and skill as warriors found themselves in disobedience to the LORD of hosts.
The people of Jericho had entrenched themselves in the land hiding behind a wall that gave them a sense of security. Jericho had won victories because of this massive structure and military ingenuity. GOD WAS NOT IMPRESSED. Israel never fought the people of Jericho, but simply praised around the wall and it crumbled. Possessing the favor was more than possessing the land. Once you lose the favor of GOD it is all but over. Jesus said that we would be the salt of the earth, but if the salt loses it flavor how can it be salted again? Sometimes in life their are no 'do overs' or rewinds.
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