Bible Pathways 3/2/2004
March 2
Read Deuteronomy 3 -- 4
In Today's Reading:
Division of land east of the Jordan; Moses' prayer; cities of refuge established east of the Jordan
Moses reminded the new generation of Israelites that living according to God's Word would bring lasting fulfillment. He began to explain the Law that God had given their parents 40 years earlier at Mount Sinai (Deuteronomy 1:3-5). To declare this Law meant more than merely "repeating" the Law; it meant to explain its meaning. Moses' first message highlighted the importance of keeping all the Word of God, that you may live, and go in and possess (live in) the land. . . . keep the Commandments of the LORD your God. . . . and do them; for this is your wisdom and your understanding. . . For what nation is there so great, who has God so near to them? (4:1-7).
That you may live (4:1) meant that the Israelites would enjoy the best in life. The one essential requirement for remaining in the land of promise was obedience to God's Word. He warned them: When you shall . . . do evil in the sight of the LORD your God . . . you shall soon utterly perish (4:25-26). God desires that we seek Him with all our heart and with all our soul (4:29) for our good (10:13).
Obedience to the One True God would have enabled Israel to be successful and morally and spiritually unique among all other nations.
We too need a daily reminder to take heed to yourself (to remain faithful to God) . . . teach them (words of God to your sons, and to your sons' sons (4:9,5).
Children begin developing respect for God by first being taught to behave in a respectful way toward their parents, teachers, and all in authority. Unless children learn respect for their parents, they seldom learn to respect and obey God, who said: Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it (Proverbs 22:6).
The Bible provides our only source of knowing the will of our Creator. Keep therefore . . . His Commandments . . . that it may go well with you, and with your children after you (Deuteronomy 4:40).
Word Studies:
3:18 meet for the war = qualified to fight; 3:28 charge = give responsibility; 4:12 no similitude = no figure, shape or form; 4:34 assayed = endeavored, attempted; 4:37 seed = descendants.
Christ Portrayed:
By Joshua, who led the Israelites into their inheritance (Deuteronomy 3:28). Through Jesus we receive His promised inheritance among them which are sanctified (set apart) by faith that is in Me (Acts 26:18).
Prayer Needs:
Pray for: The International Shortwave Radio Broadcast sponsored by a family that loves Jesus · Government Officials: Rep. Rosa DeLauro (CT) and Sen. Russell Feingold (WI) · Country: Samoa (190,000) in the South Pacific · Major languages: Samoan and English · Religious freedom · 68% Protestant; 21% Roman Catholic; 9% cults; 2% Baha'i · Prayer Suggestion: Ask for understanding of the Word of God as you read each day that you may observe it with your whole heart (Psalm 119:34).
Optional Reading: Luke 17
Memory Verse for the Week: John 3:14
