Parched. Deuteronomy 29:19.

Scripture.
“When such a person hears the words of this oath he secretly blesses himself and says, “I will have peace though I continue to walk with a stubborn spirit.” This will destroy the watered ground with the parched." (Deut. 29:19)

Observation.
In this chapter, Moses begins his third speech. Once more, he briefly reviews their history, and proclaims the covenant the people are making with the Lord their God in this new setting. Once again, there's the warning about being obedient, especially when it comes to worshiping other gods. It went something like this:

You know how it is. Miracles to get us here. Clothes and sandals that didn't wear out. The land on this side of the Jordan already divided up because God fought for us against the kings of Heshbon and Bashan. And now we're all here. All of us. And we agree to the Lord's terms, right? All of us.

And as a community, we need to help one another to stay obedient to the terms. We've seen the idol worship of others, detestable in God's sight. Don't let anyone, man, woman, family, let alone clan, or tribe, be lured away. And you know how they'll do it -- convincing themselves that they're special, immune from the commands, blessing themselves, while ruining us all.

I was struck by the phrase, "the watered ground with the parched." It's a great picture of what Moses is describing -- the effects of one or a few on the entire community.

But I am challenged, not by the effects, but by the description of the thought process of those who cause the destruction -- the ones with a stubborn spirit. That, I recognize in myself. Above the fray. Not really needing all the disciplines of obedience. Treading too often or too close to temptation. Or being unwilling to recognize the moments of failure.

Application.
Here's something that approaches being an idol in my life: XXXXXXXX (sorry, folks, this is personal).

Prayer.
Some days, Lord, I have a hard time with XXXXXXXX. Will you help me to see when it's happening? Help me to just walk humbly, in your ways. Amen.