Day 41: Deuteronomy 3:1-7:26

Today was a longer read, but I managed to get it done.

Moses did not make it into the Promised Land, but I did not know that he was able to see the whole land from a mountain top. I guess that was the concession. He had disobeyed the LORD, but the LORD still allowed him to see the land that he had been searching for over 40 years.

This section of Deuteronomy was very much like a benediction to Israel and the last words Moses could record. So, he reminds them to obey the LORD, to forsake all idolatry, that the LORD is God, and then a brief summary of the law.

The LORD commanded obedience. In Deuteronomy 4:5, there is an interesting connection. If we keep His decrees and laws, observe them carefully, we show our wisdom and understanding to the nations. What were in the commandments? What was the sum? Well, we read before a lot about the fear of God. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of all wisdom (Psalm 1:7). The LORD wants ALL of us. All of me. "For the LORD your God is a consuming fire, jealous God" (Deut. 4:24). He is a consuming fire. Out of my control, terrifying, all-encompassing. But once I am consumed, and no longer lean on myself, it seems like it is then that He says, "...do not be afraid..." (Deut. 7:18) of other troubles that come my way, because they pale before Him. God's hope for me (indeed, all of us) is that my heart would be inclined to fear Him, and keep all his commands always, so that it might go well with me and my children forever (Deut. 5:29).

In chapter 5, Moses recounts the law. The only thoughts I had on this passage was in verse 7, when, in my translation, it says, "You shall have no other gods before me." What about after Him? Or is the more accurate translation more like, "You shall have no other gods other than me."?

Chapter 6 contains the summary of the law, according to Jesus Christ in the New Testament. Deuteronomy 6:5, "Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength." I thought that was cool, that I found that. What I find interesting is that three times in the same chapter, Moses tells the people to fear the LORD (Deut. 6:2, 13, 24).

Interesting read today. I am glad I was able to get through it in time. I am so tired. I think it is time for some self-care, as the Klinic folk say.

1694 pages to go!