Deuteronomy 10:12, "And now, Israel, what doth the LORD thy God require of thee, but to fear the LORD thy God, to walk in all his ways, and to love him, and to serve the LORD thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul."

The Bible is God's precious, infallible, inspired Word. It is filled with promises, it is God's revelation to man, it has commandments that tell us what "to do" and what "not to do," it gives the gospel message of salvation through Christ. Salvation has no demands other than repentance toward God, and faith in Christ as our Savior. But as you well know, God does have requirements for His people.

Today's text speaks specifically about some of God's requirements for Israel. It would also be good if we kept these requirements because there is nothing I see in them that make them exclusive to the Old Testament and Israel in particular. What are the things in this verse God requires of us?

• First, we are required to fear the LORD. We are to respect the LORD with reverence and obedience. God is to be preeminent. Colossians 1:18-19

• Secondly, we are required to obey God completely. No picking and choosing but complete obedience is the requirement (to walk in all His ways). John 14:15 and 21

• Third, we are required to love Him with all our being. As you know, this is the great commandment. Jesus stated this fact in Matthew 22:37-38.

• Finally, we are required to serve Him. One of the great privileges given to us is the privilege of Christian service. We are to worship God and serve Him only. Matthew 4:10 We are to serve the LORD with gladness. Psalm 100:2

I'm thankful to be saved and to have a daily relationship with the Lord that is built upon who He is, and directed by His Word.

Your Friend and HIS,
Pastor Abbott

QUESTIONS TO PONDER
1.  What are the four requirements listed in Deuteronomy 10:12?

2. How much effort are we to put forth in loving God?  How can you fulfill Matthew 22:37?

3. Are you serving the Lord in your local church?  What are you doing?  Are you faithful and joyful in your service?

4. What does it mean to fear the Lord?  How will this change our lives?