Read: Deuteronomy 7:6-11
Know therefore that the LORD your God is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments, to a thousand generations. (v. 9)
Recently we removed an oak tree from our yard because mistletoe had overrun it. You may know mistletoe as a Christmas decoration, but mistletoe is a parasitic plant. It grows into the host and draws out moisture and nutrients. It cannot just fall off or shake off in the wind. It is loyal—tenaciously clinging to its host and refusing to die until the host dies.
In our verse, Moses is giving the Israelites some final words before they cross over the Jordan River to the promised land. He reminds them how they have failed the Lord. Many times, they did not believe God and disobeyed his commandments. They even crafted a golden calf to worship soon after receiving the Ten Commandments! Yet, because of God’s steadfast love for them, God remains loyal and honors his covenant—his promises to his people—no matter what they have done.
God is loyal and sticks with us too. Just like mistletoe, but in a good way. He has infected us with his steadfast love. It does not fall off and cannot be shaken off. Yet unlike mistletoe, instead of drawing out life, God infuses us with his steadfast love. As we respond and draw on that love, it gives us new life. —Donna Harold
As you pray, respond to God’s loyal, steadfast love for you with an open heart to hear his voice.
About the Author
Donna M. Harold is retired from a career in accounting and consulting and lives in Tampa, Florida, with her husband and two cats. She serves as treasurer for her church, creates and facilitates Bible studies, and enjoys writing, mosaicking, and quilting.
