Deuteronomy 4:So now, Israel, give heed to the statutes and ordinances that I am teaching you to observe, so that you may live to enter and occupy the land that the LORD, the God of your ancestors, is giving you.

Moses is giving his final address to the people before his death. They will enter the Promised Land, though he will not. The command is simple; “Give heed to the statutes and ordinances that I am teach you to observe, so that you may live to enter and occupy the land that the Lord… is giving you.”

And… they did not follow the statutes and ordinances… and lost everything.

Just because something is simple doesn’t mean it’s easy. Following the will and ways of God is not just hard, but impossible for sinful people like me and you. Which is why we are in such desperate need of the Lord and the power of the Holy Spirit. Apart from the Lord we can do nothing good. But with God all things are possible.

Lord, this morning I’m acutely aware of my shortcomings. They are many. In my own strength I am utterly without hope. Done for. Toast. Consigned to eternal death and separation from you. Thank you Lord Jesus that you died for sinners like me. Send your Spirit to do a work in me today that I might serve you well. Amen.