Deuteronomy 30:11-14
11“For this commandment which I command you today is not too difficult for you, nor is it out of reach. 12“It is not in heaven, that you should say, ‘Who will go up to heaven for us to get it for us and make us hear it, that we may observe it?’ 13“Nor is it beyond the sea, that you should say, ‘Who will cross the sea for us to get it for us and make us hear it, that we may observe it?’ 14“But the word is very near you, in your mouth and in your heart, that you may observe it.
The last time we were in this book the focus was on the ease of God’s message. Today we’ll look at the nearness of it. Moses had been sharing God’s message. There wasn’t any “special knowledge”. They knew it. There job was to act on it.
The gospel message is close to us, as well. If we’ve been raised in the US, we’ve heard that God loves us. We’ve probably heard more than that. The ease of the gospel might not be understood, as it’s not natural. However, it’s close.
The Word is also near in another way. Jesus is knocking on the door of our hearts, seeking entry (Revelation 3:20). God very much wants to be in a close relationship with us all. Different circumstances cause us to be more attentive. He also enlightens messages. He is very near. We need to act on His prompts.
If we ignore His messages, they become more faint. Hebrews 3:15 “As it has been said: “Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts, as you did in the rebellion.” Once ignored, subsequent messages are easier to put off.
Statistics show that more people accept Christ when young. Later-in-life conversions are more rare. While the Word is near and He is as well, many have made it a habit to put Him off.
Lord, thanks that You are always reaching out to us. Help us to listen and respond.