Introduction

Deuteronomy 32:45–52: Today’s and tomorrow’s readings are from a section in Deuteronomy (chapters 31—34) that comprises the epilogue to the book. Moses speaks to the people; and before he dies, he makes arrangements for Israel’s future. These arrangements include transferring leadership to Joshua and providing for the care and reading of God’s Law. In his final words, Moses exhorts the people to obey all of God’s teachings. The LORD then instructs Moses to go to Mount Nebo where he is to die since God will not allow him to enter the land of Canaan.

Today’s Key Verse: Deuteronomy 32:46a GNT

[Moses said:] “Be sure to obey all these commands that I have given you today.”

Read

45 When Moses had finished giving God’s teachings to the people, 46 he said, “Be sure to obey all these commands that I have given you today. Repeat them to your children, so that they may faithfully obey all of God’s teachings. 47 These teachings are not empty words; they are your very life. Obey them and you will live long in that land across the Jordan that you are about to occupy.”

48 That same day the Lord said to Moses, 49 “Go to the Abarim Mountains in the land of Moab opposite the city of Jericho; climb Mount Nebo and look at the land of Canaan that I am about to give the people of Israel. 50 You will die on that mountain as your brother Aaron died on Mount Hor, 51 because both of you were unfaithful to me in the presence of the people of Israel. When you were at the waters of Meribah, near the town of Kadesh in the wilderness of Zin, you dishonored me in the presence of the people. 52 You will look at the land from a distance, but you will not enter the land that I am giving the people of Israel.”

Reflect

In verses 46 and 47, what does Moses say to the people? Why are they told to repeat God’s commands to their children? In what ways are God’s commands taught to children in your community of faith? As noted in verses 51 and 52, God does not allow Moses to enter the land of Canaan. Why? (See Numbers 20:12 and 27:12–14; Deuteronomy 3:23–28.)

Pray

Holy God, guide me each day as I seek to follow and faithfully obey your commands. May your life-giving teachings sustain me each day in my faith journey, and may my words and actions reflect your love to those I encounter this day. Amen.

Tomorrow’s Reading

Deuteronomy 34:1–12: Moses dies in the land of Moab.