Various Psalms 81, 88, 92-93 “if only…” 

How often do you stand apart and observe and then consider what is before you and your nation? It is then you can see what God sees and it is this, the people are disobedient and You have laid a burden upon them. The author, if it be  David, observed that ‘if only’ the people had obeyed, just as Deuteronomy reminds us, the blessings of God would be upon them. But, as the author notes, the people are not of one mind toward God, but their minds reflect where their heart lies and it is not with God. The consequences of sin are ever before them and they bring a nation down. Psalm 81:12 summarizes God’s thoughts: “I gave them over to their stubborn desires; they did what seemed right to them.” 

These words remind us of the book of Judges and the first chapter of Romans. It is an ever recurring theme of those who disregard the words of God suffer the consequences of their sin. 

Today would be a good day to stop and read these Psalms, Deuteronomy 8-9 and Romans 1 as a reminder of what God requires to be blessed by Him.