From Old Testament history, we know that the national obedience of the people of Israel was rewarded by extraordinary and universal prosperity. The Lord made it very clear to them regarding the blessings and the curses. God is slow to anger but swift to show mercy. God would prosper them if they did not forget him in their families and nation. If they diligently hearkened to his voice, the Jewish nation would be blessed as promised. As believers we are reminded by this biblical record that in our lives, obedience unto God brings forth his blessings, be it in the country or in the city.

I remember the times when I accompanied my late father, Rev. T. Devairakkam who pioneered Advent Christian work in the rubber plantations in the State of Johore, Malaysia. Later, my husband Wilfred joined us to reach out to the Malaysian Indians in the rubber plantations. It was truly God’s uncommon favour that we were able to get along very well with the people in the plantations. They listened to the gospel earnestly. They even let us stay in their homes each time we visited them. Some of them who made decisions for Christ during that time are now living with their children in the city. We praise the Lord that the blessings we experienced in the country are now being experienced in the city. Obedience unto the Lord matters. God delights in blessing us when we place our complete trust in him.

God’s people enjoyed good health and also prospered in all kinds of merchandise wherever they were stationed. Just like the days of old, God’s people will prosper and succeed in whatever their hands find to do. Surely goodness and mercy will follow them all the days of their lives, whether in the country or in the city.

God is our ever-present helper wherever we are stationed.

Ruth Devairakkam

Extended Scripture: Deuteronomy 28–31 (NKJV)