Day 33 – Deuteronomy: Introduction

“And may the Lord, the God of your ancestors, multiply you a thousand times more and bless you as he promised!” Deuteronomy 1:11 NLT

The past is a kaleidoscope of promises, failures, victories, and embarrassments. Like photo albums, familiar songs, and old-time friends, it awakens memories, sometimes good and sometimes painful. Remembering can be healthy and helpful: mistakes should not be repeated, commitments must be fulfilled, and memories of special events can encourage us to act for the future.

As you read through Deuteronomy, you notice the writing style is in the form of a treaty between a king and his vassal – Typically found in the second millennium BC. It calls for Israel to remember who God is and what He has done. Lacking faith, the older generation wandered for 40 years and died in the wilderness – the new generation, those entering the promise – had to remember the past to move forward.

On the east bank of the Jordan River, Moses prepared the sons and daughters with a history lesson emphasizing God’s great acts on behalf of His people, a revision of the law, and restating the covenant (God’s treaty with His chosen people).

Prayer: Father, help us to look at the past with an eye on the future for what You have for our lives. May our faith grow with Deuteronomy in understanding You only want the best for Your children. Thank You for Your faithfulness to us and we know Your promises will be fulfilled. Amen.