How should witnessing God's works in Deuteronomy 11:3 influence our obedience to Him? Witnessing God’s Works and Choosing Obedience Deuteronomy 11:3: “the signs and works He performed in Egypt against Pharaoh king of Egypt and all his land;” What Israel Actually Saw - Ten literal plagues that dismantled Egypt’s gods (Exodus 7–12). - The Red Sea split, then closed over the Egyptian army (Exodus 14). - Daily manna, water from rock, and unwearied sandals through forty wilderness years (Deuteronomy 8:4). - Judgment on rebels like Dathan and Abiram when “the earth opened its mouth” (Deuteronomy 11:6). These were not legends; Scripture records real history that Israel “with your own eyes saw” (Deuteronomy 11:7). Why First-Hand Witnesses Were Expected to Obey - Awe: God’s power demanded reverent fear (Exodus 14:31). - Gratitude: deliverance from slavery deserved wholehearted loyalty (Deuteronomy 6:12). - Trust: the One who parted seas could keep every promise (Numbers 23:19). - Accountability: seeing truth heightens responsibility (Hebrews 2:1–3). How Memory Fuels Obedience 1. Recall → Renewed love: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15). 2. Recall → Resistance to doubt: past miracles silence present fears (Psalm 77:11–12). 3. Recall → Readiness to act: knowing His track record, Israel could march into Canaan confidently (Joshua 1:9). Lessons for Us Today - We witness God’s works through the inerrant record of Scripture and the finished work of Christ (1 Corinthians 10:11). - Remembering the cross—the greatest sign—compels joyful obedience (Romans 12:1). - Personal testimonies of answered prayer and transformed lives add fresh reminders of His power. Putting Memory into Daily Practice - Read Scripture stories aloud; let details reignite wonder. - Keep a journal of answered prayers to preserve modern “signs and works.” - Tell the next generation, as Moses commanded (Deuteronomy 6:20–21). - When temptation comes, rehearse what God has already done; choose obedience out of love and trust. God’s mighty acts are not mere history; they are constant motivation to obey the One who has proven Himself faithful beyond question. |
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