Daily Devotional
God’s Inheritance
February 20, 2012 - 5:00 amThis Devotional's Hebrew Word
“But the plans of the Lord stand firm forever,
the purposes of his heart through all generations.
Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord,
the people he chose for his inheritance.”— Psalm 33:11–12
We tend to think of an inheritance as the legal transmission of property after death, but in a broader sense an inheritance is a possession — perhaps a treasured heirloom that is priceless to the one who possesses it, even if no one else can see its value. It may be tattered, torn, faded, and practically worthless, but it is valued.
From the beginning, God called Israel His “treasured possession” (Exodus 19:5). Although the whole earth is His, God chose one nation as His inheritance: “But as for you, the Lord took you and brought you out of the iron-smelting furnace, out of Egypt, to be the people of his inheritance, as you now are” (Deuteronomy 4:20).
Like anyone holding a treasured possession, God has always been very protective of His inheritance, Israel. The Lord spoke though the prophet Joel, saying, “I will gather all nations . . . I will enter into judgment against them concerning my inheritance, my people Israel, for they scattered my people among the nations and divided up my land” (Joel 3:2).
Even though God judges the nations for their treatment of Israel, His love and protection does not mean that Israel is immune from war. At times, God also “gave his people over to the sword; he was very angry with his inheritance” (Psalm 78:62). But, throughout history, God has never allowed Israel to be destroyed by her enemies.
Indeed, we have seen evidence of this throughout history. The people of Israel have been war-torn, exiled, scattered around the globe, faced with almost certain annihilation, and seemingly forgotten. Yet, she as a people, as a nation, and as God’s treasured possession, has persevered. Despite all the threats she has faced and continues to face, God has seen fit to restore her.
Perhaps you have a treasured possession — perhaps something you inherited from a family member. Whenever you look at it, remember that Israel is God’s treasured possession. Let it be a reminder to value that which God values and to pray for God’s continued protection of His treasured possession — Israel.
I truly enjoy the writings of Rabbi Eckstein. This piece on “Gods Inheritance” is no exception. I am a Gentile but know the importance of taking care , by any means , of Israel. This is outlined completely in the Old Testament . It is disturbing to me that our present administration does not feel this way. At least that’s the impression I get. When it comes to picking sides I will side with the one and only Yahweh.
Just wanted to know if there is an easy way to learn the Hebrew alphabet.
Thank you
amen.
There are those who are deceived thinking that G-d is finished with Israel because of the
rejection of the Gospel. If that were true then G-d would be a lier and we know that isn’t
true. For He said “I am not a man that I should lie…” Therefore, His promises in the Tanach are still in force and will be fulfilled. G-d told our father Abraham His covenant with him and
his descendants is an everlasting one. No one except G-d can revoke His covenant which is
something He will not do. So thank you Rabbi Eckstein for reminding us of the truth.
G-d wii never forsake Israel. G-d has promised He would regather them and restore them in their Land. G-d never goes back on a promise, ever. One day we will all see the fulfillment of all “His good promises.” May we obey His commands and have made our choice before His return. I can’t imagine anything worse than to be left behind. He has given us His Word and a heart of flesh that we may know the acceptable will of G-d. As Moses pointed out in Deut.. 30 we have a choice…..blessings or curses. Choose life. As Joshua said, “choose you this day whom you will serve. As for me and my house we will serve the Lord.”