The True Test of Devotion

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Verse:Judges 2:7 - "And the people served the LORD all the days of Joshua, and all the days of the elders that outlived Joshua, who had seen all the great works of the LORD, that he did for Israel."

The departure of God's servants can reveal the authenticity of our devotion. The Israelites' faithfulness wavered after Joshua's passing, exposing a deeper issue. Their relationship with God was largely mediated through His servants, lacking firsthand experience.

This dependency on intermediaries created a miracle-oriented mindset, focusing on benefits rather than responsibilities. Their faith was built on witnessing great works rather than an intimate connection with God.

The absence of prominent leaders exposed the shallowness of their devotion. It raises questions about the sincerity of their service during Joshua's lifetime. Were they truly committed to God or merely enthralled by the miracles?

This phenomenon persists today. Anything that obstructs direct access to God – whether leaders, rituals, or traditions – can become an idol. True devotion requires a personal, unwavering relationship with God, unmediated by human intermediaries.

May we cultivate a genuine, firsthand faith, unshaken by the presence or absence of God's servants.

Prayer:

Dear Heavenly Father, help us build a personal, unwavering relationship with You. May our devotion be unshaken by circumstances or the presence of Your servants. Grant us a firsthand experience of Your love and guidance. Amen.

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