How to Stay Close to God

God gives instructions to the Israelites to remember and obey when they select a king. It is interesting as I read through these verses how many of the kings of Israel failed to abide by these commands. Before we are too hard on the kings we need to admit to ourselves that we also fail to obey God’s commands. What God’s says in Deuteronomy 17:18-19 is great advice for you and me.

Deuteronomy 17:18-19 (NKJV) 18“Also it shall be, when he sits on the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write for himself a copy of this law in a book, from the one before the priests, the Levites. 19And it shall be with him, and he shall read it all the days of his life, that he may learn to fear the Lord his God and be careful to observe all the words of this law and these statutes,

The Lord wanted the king to have a high view of scripture. God instructed the king to copy the laws on a scroll for himself, in the presence of the Levitical priests. Copying the Word of God would not have been an easy task. It would have taken many days to accomplish. They did not have printing presses, copy machines or computers with scanners. Every copy of God’s word required someone with a pen in hand to copy it. Imagine the time that would require. Maybe we would be blessed today if we would take the time to copy God’s Word.

Next the King was required to keep the Word with him at all times. How much do you cherish your Bible? Do you keep it with you? I am amazed how many people leave their Bibles at church, and don’t seem to miss or need them until the next Sunday. Some people leave their Bibles in their cars, and they only take them out on Sundays. Why not carry your Bible with you? When someone asks you, “is that you’re Bible?” You can be prepared to share your faith with them. When you leave home I am sure you carry your wallet or purse with you. Your Bible is just as important.

God also commanded the King to read the Word every day of his life. God expected him to have a daily quiet time with Him. God knew if the king read and carefully consulted the Word in every decision, he would be a great godly king. We also need to follow this same advice, read the Word daily. God’s Word is life changing. Anyone who reads it daily and follows God’s commands will be transformed by His Word. 1 Peter 2:2-3 says: 2as newborn babes, desire the pure milk of the word, that you may grow thereby, 3if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is gracious.

Do you want to stay close to the Lord? Stay close to his Word.

Pastor Larry