Walking Through Ephesians
“Day 40 (Deuteronomy 4)”
Categories: 40 Days in the WildernessHear The Lord
Moses’ emphasizes to Israel the need to hear the Lord (Deuteronomy 4). All through this chapter there is the emphasis on listening to God’s word. Moses uses the expression “Take heed” repeatedly. He appeals and he warns. Again, Deuteronomy is Moses’ last letter to Israel. This is a review of what has already been taught. As he closes his life he wants them to remember the importance of what God has said to them. In fact, it is so important that he warns against adding or taking from the word of God (Deuteronomy 4:2).
There was no other nation with whom God was as near as Israel (Deuteronomy 4:7). In spite of what God had done for them they turned from Him to idols.
Why was it so important for Israel to know and obey God? For one thing, it was the guarantee of their success in taking possession of the Promised Land (Deuteronomy 4:5). The two times Joshua didn’t seek God’s wisdom the nation experienced humiliating defeat (Joshua 7, 9).
Second, knowing God’s wisdom, the people would know how to succeed in their mission and also be an example to other nations. People who live according to God’s wisdom can’t help but demonstrate to others that God is real and that following His wisdom brings blessings. Everything about God is superior to the pagan idols Israel came to worship. It is so easy to live in the midst of God’s blessings. We take them for granted and begin to imitate others rather than God.
Third, following God’s wisdom helps us build godly homes (Deuteronomy 4:9-10). Surrounded by worldly people, Israel was one generation short of losing God’s blessings. If we don’t invest the word of God in our children today, the next generation will not know the Lord (Judges 2:7-15).
We can influence our children to trust the Lord when we keep it near our hearts, and when we remember what God has done for us. We share His word and what He has done for us with our children. Further, it is the responsibility of the older generation to teach the younger. Teaching can be done in word or by example.
All along, Moses is telling Israel how they can be successful as they enter the land. He will not lead them, Joshua will. But, he wants to leave them a legacy to follow. Therefore, he spends a lot of time teaching them and setting an example for them. God had chosen Israel. God had invested Himself in Israel. Moses had given all he had for them too. Now, as they enter the Promised Land it is up to them.
Eventually, it all comes down to me. What will I do with God’s word? What will I do with God? No one else, just me and God.
