“Beware lest you forget.”
This theme appears frequently throughout the pages of Deuteronomy. Essentially Moses’ farewell speech, this book consists of three sermons focusing on the Israelites’ past, present, and future.
Deuteronomy 1 begins with a review of the Israelites’ history.
The old generation has now died in the wilderness because of their unfaithfulness. Even though God gave them visible signs of His divine intervention and provision, they still refused to trust in Him. Because of their rebellion, Moses instructs the new generation of Israelites in the commandments of God.
As they wait in the plains of Moab, Moses recites the law and expounds it for them so that they will understand. After all, the Lord expects obedience. He is the only true God, and He is worthy of worship. Moses wants to prepare their hearts to praise Him before they enter the Promised Land with its multitude of blessings.
As we read through Deuteronomy, we ought to worship the Lord as well, recognizing that He provides for us and protects us. In this temporal sojourn, we need to keep our eyes trained on Him rather than on the circumstances of this world.
Watch part 91 of the 365 Key Chapters of the Bible series, based on Ken’s Handbook to Scripture.
