We can learn so much from the Israelites of old. We should probably heed these lessons swiftly to prevent experiencing loss at the very door of promise. Although they saw the powerful hand of God move on their behalf – protecting, guiding, blessing and correcting them – they still murmured and wallowed in unbelief. There’s no doubt God’s voice was heard, the issue lay in the fact that their hearts were hardened to it. Just the same, God is always speaking – through His Word, through people, and even through nature. The question is: are we paying any attention to it? If we are listening, are our hearts softened and receptive to obey, or are we hardened by our own selfish motives and desires? To truly love God is to obey His commands; because our obedience is a genuine expression of love and respect for Him. A will that is quick to surrender to God is empowered and enabled to walk unaffected by our enemy, the devil. So listen for God’s voice – don’t harden your heart towards it – but be quick to obey so you can walk in all the benefits obedience brings.