Never Be the Tail

The LORD will make you the head and not the tail; you will only move upward and never downward if you listen to the LORD your God’s commands I am giving you today and are careful to follow them. - Deuteronomy 28:13

Moses's statement is found in a larger section of blessings and curses upon the nation of Israel that was directly tied to their obedience to God's commands. As I read this particular verse, I was both encouraged and warned.

As I consider its implications for those who live under the new covenant, does it mean that if we are "moving downward" it is a result of our disobedience? Possibly. If we, as Christ-followers, ignore His truth in our lives, the result will never be positive.

Does it also imply that when we are "moving upward" it is a result of our obedience? Again, it is possible. When we adhere to God's truth in our lives, the result will always be positive.

When we uphold God's truth, we will always lead out in the accomplishment of His purposes. On the other hand, when we ignore the Lord's truth, (though we will remain His followers), we will find ourselves in a position far from His intended purposes and desires.

The lesson I have perceived is this: Hold fast to His truth and you will never be the tail.

If you look for truth, you may find comfort in the end; if you look for comfort you will not get neither comfort nor truth. - C. S. Lewis