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"A blessing and a curse..."

Text: Deuteronomy 11:26

TWO CONTRASTING ELEMENTS

The Sinaitic Covenant contained two elements that contrast each other. This word must be read carefully and heeded.

“Behold, I set before you today a blessing and a curse:
the blessing, if you obey the commandments of
the LORD your God which I command you today;
and the curse, if you do not obey the commandments of the LORD your God,
but turn aside from the way which I command you today,
to go after other gods which you have not known.”
Deuteronomy 11:26-28

1. “Behold, I set before you”

a) The Lord Himself was the One who spoke these words.

b) The fact that the Source is a Divine One must add great significance.

2. “A blessing and a curse”

a) These were diametrically opposite.

b) There is no neutral ground offered.

3. Blessing promised

a) This is not to be seen as a bribe to make people obey the Lord.

b) Bribes do not really work out in the long run.

c) The blessings of God were indicative: –

i) Of His approval

ii) Of His Presence among His people

iii) Of His protection

iv) Of His gracious provision

4. Curse forewarned and what they symbolize

a) Of the consequences of departing from the Lord God.

b) Of the foolishness of turning to what is not Divine but man-made.

c) Of God’s disapproval.

d) Of His judgment.

e) Of His chastisement.

f) Of His withholding of blessings.