What practical steps can we take to align with God's will as described? Setting the Scene “When the LORD your God brings you into the land you are entering to possess, you are to pronounce a blessing on Mount Gerizim and a curse on Mount Ebal.” (Deuteronomy 11:29) Israel’s first act in the Promised Land was to stand on two facing mountains, speak God’s blessing and His curse aloud, and affirm—before heaven and earth—that obedience brings life while rebellion brings loss. The moment is a vivid reminder that God’s will is not vague; it is clearly revealed, publicly affirmed, and meant to shape every step we take. Blessing or Curse—The Choice Is Clear • God links blessing to obedience (Deuteronomy 28:1–6). • Ignoring His word invites the opposite (Deuteronomy 28:15–19). • The same pattern carries into the New Testament: “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked. For whatever a man sows, he will reap in return.” (Galatians 6:7) Eight Practical Steps to Align with God’s Will 1. Know the Covenant • Regularly read, hear, and internalize Scripture (Joshua 1:8; Psalm 1:2). • Underline promises and commands; memorize key verses that address areas of struggle. 2. Choose Public Identification • Israel’s declarations on the mountains were audible and communal. • Identify openly with Christ at work, school, and home (Matthew 5:14–16). 3. Act in Immediate Obedience • Obedience is not theoretical. Jesus said, “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” (John 14:15) • When Scripture speaks to an issue—speech, integrity, purity—respond now, not later. 4. Conduct Regular Heart Checks • Ask, “Am I drifting toward Ebal or Gerizim?” • Let Psalm 139:23–24 be a weekly gauge for motives and attitudes. 5. Cultivate a Blessing-Focused Mindset • Thank God out loud for the blessings obedience has already brought (1 Thessalonians 5:18). • Celebrate testimonies in your family or church that showcase God’s faithfulness. 6. Guard the Borders of Influence • Israel was warned not to adopt the practices of neighboring nations (Deuteronomy 12:29–31). • Set clear boundaries on media, friendships, and business partnerships that pull you off God’s path (2 Corinthians 6:14–18). 7. Renew Your Mind Daily • “Be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” (Romans 12:2) • Swap anxious or sinful thought patterns for truth-filled ones through worship music, Scripture meditation, and Christ-centered conversation. 8. Sow to the Spirit, Not the Flesh • Invest time, money, and energy in what advances God’s kingdom (Galatians 6:8). • Serve in your local church, support missions, and look for quiet ways to bless neighbors. Living the Lesson: Everyday Snapshots • On your commute, recite Deuteronomy 30:19 and consciously “choose life” before stepping into the office. • At family dinner, voice how God honored integrity in a recent decision; reinforce Gerizim over Ebal. • When tempted online, recall the mountain ceremony—decide which side your next click will place you on. Encouragement to Finish Well The two mountains still stand in modern Israel, silent witnesses that God’s word remains unchanged. Every act of obedience positions us on Gerizim, within earshot of God’s blessing. Walk there today, and keep walking—one clear, deliberate, Scripture-anchored choice at a time. |
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