When God's people sin, he punishes them. But when they repent and turn to God with their whole hearts and seek to obey him, he will restore their fortunes (1-10). God is compassionate and eagerly waits for our return; he is ready to receive and restore when we sincerely repent. God promises to circumcise their hearts and give them a new heart to love and obey him with all their hearts and souls (6). As a result, they will experience more abundant life and blessing. God's love is always divine and redemptive (Heb 12:10 -11).

God's commands are not too difficult to understand or obey they are not beyond our reach. The word is very near us, in our mouth and in our hearts. The problem with our disobedience is with our hearts. Likewise, the way of life is not beyond our reach: God's word is right there-to accept by faith, to hide in our hearts, to obey in our practical lives, and to share with others (Ro 10:5-11). The way of death is rebellion, disobedience, and idolatry. The way of life is to love God, listen to his word, and hold fast to him for the LORD is our life. Our life's quality and destiny depend on what we do with God's word. To choose to obey his word brings life and blessing. To choose to disobey brings curse and death.


Application: Lord, circumcise my heart so that I may love you purely. Cast all idols from my heart today. Help me to obey your word and walk in your ways.
One Word: Choose life and live