Verses 1-4
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We can look at this passage in two ways. First, it is a commandment that we, as believers, praise and thank God joyfully. Joy and thanksgiving are not optional.
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View a lack of joy and gratitude as disobedience to God, not merely a disadvantage. And repent by choosing to be thankful as often as possible.
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Verses 5-9
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Just as the Israelites were delivered from the bondage of Egypt—a foreign people—we've been delivered from sin and death. And out of gratitude for such deliverance, we ought to be loyal to God alone, and trust that He will provide for us (verse 10) if we obey Him.
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When we disobey God and instead obey unrighteousness, we are submitting to (worshipping) a foreign god, and we prove that we do not trust God enough to do what He says. Remember this when you are tempted. Trust God, and obey Him.
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Verses 10-16
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“Open your mouth wide, and He will fill it” (verse 10). Open yourself to God—show your trust—by seeking His wisdom and obeying it. You will always be taken care of it you do this.
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Notice that obedience brings protection from the enemy and “the finest of wheat”. You will have the best that you can experience in all situations if you listen to what God says at all times. The devil will also be “subdued” in your life—you will not be led astray by his tactics. Remember that obedience brings great joy and blessing and protection!
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But if you do what Israel did, and you do not listen to God, eventually you will be hardened towards Him.
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Also know that you cannot be a “pretender”, like some are (verse 15). Obedience to God cannot be faked. You will be exposed and judged in the end (Matthew 7:21-23).
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