SEED OF TRANSFORMATION DAILY DEVOTIONAL

DANGER OF SELF WILLED RELOCATION

*By Pastor E O Gabriel 18 September 2023*

SCRIPTURE: Ephraim is joined to idols: let him alone - *Hosea 4:17*

*It is great disaster for a man to move from one Place to another to dwell, without the leading of the Lord.*

*The relocation of the family of Elimelech from Bethlehem Judah to Moab, highlights the dangers of a self-willed relocation.*

The family relocated because there was famine in the land, instead of addressing the root cause of the famine.

*The followings among others are the inherent dangers of self-willed relocation:*

*(1)* Gradual decline.

The family moved from fullness to emptiness - *Ruth 1:21*

*(2)* The door of bitterness will be opened wide.

Naomi said don't call me Naomi, but Mara - *Ruth 1:20*

*Mara stands for bitterness.*

*(3)* Untimely death.

Elimelech and his two sons died.

*Relocation without involving God, can lead to Physical or/and Spiritual death.*

*(4)* Regrets and lamentations.

Naomi was full of regrets and lamentation hence his decision to return to Judah.

*(5)* Absence of the Glory of God - *Hosea 4:17*

The Lord distanced Himself from a self-willed relocation.

*It is therefore essential to avoid self willed relocation.*

*How do we avoid it?*

Simply like in the case of Isaac, we should desire to know what the Lord would say - *Genesis 26:1-3*

The Psalmist said, I will hear what God the Lord will speak; for He will speak Peace unto His People - *Psalms 85:8*

*When we hear what He says, regrets and lamentation will not come our way.*

*Prayer:*

Father, Please let nothing push me away from where you have Planted me.