Bible Chapter: Deuteronomy 1 & 2

Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.

1.  Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
    Deuteronomy is the last book Moses wrote.  He was at the end of his life and this book is his farewell address to Israel.  They had been wandering in the desert for almost forty years and it was about time for them to take the promised land.  The majority of the population had no recollection of the exodus or the time in Egypt.  They needed a reminder of what God had done and what He expected.
    Moses review some of the early history.  Included was the event that brought them to their long journey in the wilderness that kept most of them out of the promised land.  After the spies went through the land to check it out, they came back with a glowing report.  But, their report also included great fear.  They said they people were too strong and they couldn’t win.  They completely left God out of the picture.  Because of this fear and unbelief, God kept them from seeing what they should have received.
    They forgot that they didn’t need to be afraid, for God had promised to fight for them.  They didn’t trust the Lord, so they lost out.  They wandered in the desert till that whole generation died out.

2.  What can I apply in my life from the reading?
    Caleb and Joshua received the blessing of survival and entrance to the promised land.  This is because they followed the Lord wholeheartedly.  God’s blessing was on them and their descendants.  Following the Lord with all I have is a lifelong journey.  One victory does not mean it is time to rest.  This is an ongoing trip, walking and living with and for the Lord.  In Moses’ writings we see this truth repeated many times.  When they were obedient, they were blessed.  When they were disobedient, they were judged.  This is a good practical lesson to learn and apply.

3.  How can I help someone?
    When someone is writing or speaking, they will emphasize what is most important.  Moses let us know obedience to God was high on the list.  This is what people must grasp.  I want to help people see that and learn to make it a central part of their lives.