13 For the Lord has chosen Zion,
he has desired it for his dwelling, saying,
14 “This is my resting place for ever and ever;
here I will sit enthroned, for I have desired it.
15 I will bless her with abundant provisions;
her poor I will satisfy with food.
16 I will clothe her priests with salvation,
and her faithful people will ever sing for joy. Psalm 132:13-15

Many jokes have been made about why God chose to “set up shop” where He did and with the people He chose. I suppose it didn’t matter on both accounts. The land and people God chose would have been blessed because He chose them. In times of darkness many Jews have lamented just like Tevye said in Fiddler on the Roof, “I know we’re a chosen people, Lord, but for just once, could you choose someone else?”

Being the chosen people had its rewards and challenges. Israel “earned” many of the challenges because of their disobedience and stubbornness. While they would never admit it, they thought they knew more than God. They questioned and disobeyed many of the laws and rules God gave them to live a blessed life.

As I write this, I can clearly see similarities to our own lives. Everything I’ve said above about the nation of Israel could easily be said about us. And we have a lot more revelation about many spiritual things.

After you read these words, spend a few moments thanking God for what He’s done in your life recently. Bless Him as He has blessed us.