The Daily Devotional
Friday, November 15, 2024
Choose Life
Choose life so that you and your descendants may live. (Deuteronomy 30:19b)
Introduction
Deuteronomy 30:19b challenges us with a profound choice, as God speaks through Moses to the Israelites: "Choose life so that you and your descendants may live." This verse emerges at a pivotal moment when the Israelites are on the brink of entering the Promised Land, reminding us of the constant decisions we face between life and death, blessings and curses.
Reflection
Choosing life, as urged by this Scripture, is more than a momentary decision. It is a continual choice to live in ways that honor God and bring vitality to ourselves and those around us. But what does it mean to truly "choose life" in our everyday experiences?
Consider the story of Jonathan, a man who spent years pursuing a high-profile career in finance. His days were a blur of meetings, flights, and late-night emails. Though successful, Jonathan felt a growing emptiness. He rarely had time for spiritual reflection or community, and his health and relationships suffered. One day, during a routine Sunday service, he felt a piercing conviction when the pastor quoted Deuteronomy 30:19. Jonathan realized he was choosing a form of existence but not a full life. He decided then to shift his focus, stepping back from his demanding role to invest more in his family, health, and faith community. This choice revitalized Jonathan's sense of purpose and deepened his spiritual and relational connections.
Application
Choosing life involves making daily decisions that align with God's will and contribute to our growth and the well-being of others. It can mean prioritizing time for prayer and Scripture reading over mindless scrolling on social media or choosing to volunteer our time instead of pursuing yet another overtime hour. Each choice for life can lead us closer to the abundant life Christ promises in John 10:10.
Conclusion
Choosing life is not always the easiest path. It often requires sacrifice and the courage to make significant changes in our lifestyle and priorities. Yet, this is what we are called to do as followers of Christ—to embrace a life that is rich in meaning and full of hope, a life that perpetually seeks to reflect God's love and grace in the world.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, grant us the wisdom and courage to choose life in every decision we face. Help us to discern what is truly life-giving in Your eyes and to turn away from those things that lead to spiritual death. May our lives reflect Your love and purpose, and may we embrace the fullness of life that You offer through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Devotional by: Kenny Sallee, ThM — Deming, NM, USA
The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible (NRSV)© 1989, 1993, the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
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