The before shot shows an unhappy obese person while the after shot presents a stunning beauty.

Deuteronomy 28:1-68

Reference:  v.63  Just as it pleased the Lord to make you prosper and increase in number, so it will please him to ruin and destroy you.  You will be uprooted from the land you are entering to possess. (NIV Bible)

Explore:  I'm a sucker for a before-and-after shot.  That is where a photo is taken of someone or something before they have had a total revamp and then another photo is taken after the transformation is completed.  You then compare the two and see the massive difference.  You will often see the before-and-after shots on renovation shows or weight loss programs.  The before shot shows a drab room while the after shot displays a gallery style space.  The before shot shows an unhappy obese person while the after shot presents a stunning beauty.  While there is a great deal of gradual change that goes on between the two shots, it is great to be able to see the significant difference between the two.

Application:  In Deuteronomy 28 Moses is giving us the before-and-after shot of following God.  The first 14 verses explains what life can be like if the Israelites follow God with all their heart.  The rest of the chapter goes on to explain what life will be like if they don't.  And let me tell you, the difference is significant!  When we move away from God it often happens in subtle and gradual ways.  However if we were to get a snap shot of what our hearts are like before and after, there is a significant difference.

Prayer:  Lord God, we often see the wealth of this world and desire to have it all.  May we be reminded that You are the One that we must strive towards.  Amen.

What subtle things can draw you away from God?