Weekly Reflection – A Treasured Possession

“The Lord has today declared you to be His people, a treasured possession, as He promised you, and that you should keep all His commandments; and that He will set you high above all nations which He has made, for praise, fame, and honor; and that you shall be a consecrated people to the Lord your God, as He has spoken.”

— Deuteronomy 26:18-19

Moses calls for Israel to open their hearts and receive the Law of God into their inner being (Deuteronomy 5:29; 10:16). In doing so, their divine destiny would be filled with God’s glorious and consecrated reward: “…praise, fame, and honor…” (Deuteronomy 26:19). Moses encouraged Israel to keep God’s commands for at least two reasons.

First, “for praise, fame, and honor”: As a chosen nation, Israel has a calling to be exalted—to bring glory to God among all other nations. When God’s people walk in His ways and are exalted through His blessings, then He is exalted.

Second, “You shall be a consecrated people”: Chosen and set on high, Israel is also set apart. In order to fulfill God’s calling, His people must come out from the midst of unrighteous actions and alliances.

Be encouraged this week: as part of the family of God, we have been adopted into His covenant as a treasured possession (Ephesians 2:11- 22). We, too, are awaiting promised exaltation through His divine favor (1 Corinthians 1:6-8), as we set ourselves apart in obedience to God, our Father (2 Corinthians 7:1).