Moses put it all on the line.As he approaches the end ofhis days, he reminds Israel what God has done and the importance of keeping God’scovenant with them.But he also points out the impact Israel’s faithfulness would have on the nations aroundthem.If it was true for Israel, whatabout the church as God’s people today?
 
Consider what Mosestells the Israelites: “So keep and dothem, for that is your wisdom and your understanding in the sight of the peoples who will hear all these statutes and say, 'Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.'” (Deuteronomy 4:6, NASU).Did you notice how the peoples around Israel would respond? “…the peoples who will hear and say…”The peoples would have a positive impression,and perhaps implied in the text, have a desire to know the God of the covenant.
 
How some see Christians' poor behavior.
Think about our roleas God’s people today.Peter writes, “Beloved, I urge you as aliens andstrangers to abstain from fleshly lusts which wage war against the soul. Keepyour behavior excellent among the Gentiles, so that in the thing in which theyslander you as evildoers, they may because of your good deeds, as they observethem, glorify God in the day of visitation.” (1 Peter 2:11-12, NASU).Peter reminds us that even those who would speak ill of Christianity might have their hearts and minds changed by observing how we act.
 
Life can betough.We can let the minutecircumstances of the day prompt us to forget our public behavior andspeech.But, we need to always seek tolive in such away, that those observing us will see Christ in us.


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