What does "the LORD’s portion is His people" reveal about God's priorities? The Verse in Focus “But the LORD’s portion is His people, Jacob His allotted inheritance.” (Deuteronomy 32:9) Defining “Portion” • In the ancient world a “portion” or “inheritance” referred to a prized allotment—land, wealth, or legacy received with joy and guarded with zeal. • God, who owns “the cattle on a thousand hills” (Psalm 50:10-11), calls Israel—ultimately all redeemed believers—His chosen prize. • The literal wording underlines possession, delight, and protective commitment. What This Reveals about God’s Priorities • Relationship over real estate – God values people above every created asset (Isaiah 43:4). • Covenant love over detached power – His greatness is channeled into faithful love for those He redeems (Exodus 34:6-7). • Redemption over mere rule – He is not content simply to govern; He rescues, cleanses, and adopts (Ephesians 1:5-7). • Glory shared, not hoarded – “I will be glorified in My people” (cf. Isaiah 49:3), showing that His honor is intertwined with our well-being. • Holiness cultivated, not optional – Because we are His portion, He molds us “a holy nation” (1 Peter 2:9). How God Demonstrates These Priorities 1. Protective care • “He guarded him as the apple of His eye” (Deuteronomy 32:10). 2. Patient instruction • Decades in the wilderness shaped Israel’s trust (Deuteronomy 8:2-5). 3. Personal presence • The tabernacle, temple, and now indwelling Spirit declare, “I will live among them” (2 Corinthians 6:16). 4. Price paid • “You are not your own; you were bought at a price” (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). The cross secures the portion. 5. Promised future • He pledges “the riches of His glorious inheritance in the saints” (Ephesians 1:18). Implications for Us Today • Treasured identity – Your worth rests in being God’s chosen possession, not in performance or status. • Confident security – The Owner of all zealously protects what is His (John 10:28-29). • Responsive devotion – As His treasured portion, we gladly declare, “The LORD is my portion” (Psalm 119:57). • Pursuit of holiness – We align our lives with His character because He purchased us to be “a people for His own possession, zealous for good deeds” (Titus 2:14). • Mission to reflect His heart – When we prize people—especially the lost and the least—above possessions, we mirror the priorities of the One who first called us His portion. |
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