The LORD who is near when called
Deut. 4:7
Moses was not permitted to enter Canaan. But he gave some final commandments to the Israelites – to be obedient to the LORD. He elaborated on how the LORD has been good to those who are near Him, and how the Israelites had a guardian in Him. These particular words of Moses touched me deeply:
”For what other great nation has a god so near to it as the LORD our God is whenever we call to Him?” Deut. 4:7
Isn’t it so? They were so fortunate that even when they sinned; even when they turned to other gods and even when the LORD punished them the LORD still listened to them if they turn to Him. The Psalmist says, “Truly God is good to Israel” (Ps. 73:1).
Like the blessed Israelites, believers today are also fortunate and blessed beyond measure.
The LORD is also our God today; and like He has been good to the Israelites, He is also good to us today and blesses us still. We did not choose Him, but He chose us. John 15:16 says, “You did not choose me but I chose you.” He chose us not because we are good looking or educated or intelligent or rich; He chose us because He loves us. He chose us even when we were in sin and bought us with a price. To be reckoned amongst His people is indeed a wonderful thing. To be His chosen people over many others is indeed a marvellous thing.
Look, “For what other great nation has a god so near to it as the LORD our God is whenever we call to Him?” Just think. Even when we sin, even when we turn away, He still listens to us when we call upon Him.
“The LORD is good to all” (Ps. 145:9)
Yes, He is good. He is good to us.
