Sadly,
it is possible to be living in the promised land yet living in
disobedience and thus losing out on the promised blessing. The Pharisee,
in Jesus’ parable, lived and worshipped within the tradition which
remembered God’s mighty act of redemption. Nevertheless, his heart was
far from God. He considered himself superior, He was not justified, and
he would not be exalted (glorified). Those who are justified, who will
be glorified, rejoice in the Lord with much gladness: “Sing praises to
God, sing praises; sing praises to our King, sing praises” (Psalm 47:6).
What God did for His people, Israel, was very great. There is a striking contrast between their slavery in Egypt and their abundance in the promised land. God had multiplied His blessing upon them, just as Jesus did when He turned water into wine (John 2:1-11). If the blessing is to be maintained and increased, we must honour the Lord. We must cry to Him for blessing: "Hear my prayer, O God, listen to the words of my mouth." We must call upon Him with faith: "Surely God is my help; the Lord is the One who sustains me" (Psalm 54:2,4).
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