Numbers 32:20 – Deuteronomy 7:26
Overview
Moses knows he will die soon and he begins to recount the journey the nation of Israel has taken with God. He details the accounts and emphasizes obeying God. Moses reminded them that God said not to intermingle with the other nations because of their despicable worship to other Gods. “They will be a thorn in your side and barbs in our eyes if you allow the inhabitants you encounter to stay.” God gives graphical boundaries to the promised land. He instructed that the Levites be allowed 48 towns from the inheritance of the other tribes. They will include pastures and 6 of them will be towns of refuge (3 in Cannan and 3 on the other side of the Jordan). More laws regarding murder are recited. Moving from Numbers into Deuteronomy, we see blessing and warnings recited.
Scripture – Deuteronomy 4:5-8
5 See, I have taught you decrees and laws as the LORD my God commanded me, so that you may follow them in the land you are entering to take possession of it. 6 Observe them carefully, for this will show your wisdom and understanding to the nations, who will hear about all these decrees and say, “Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.” 7 What other nation is so great as to have their gods near them the way the LORD our God is near us whenever we pray to him? 8 And what other nation is so great as to have such righteous decrees and laws as this body of laws I am setting before you today?
Observation
The people will be crossing over into the promised land soon. God promised that those who left Egypt that were 20 or older would not see the promised land because of their disobedience. They would die in the wilderness. Their children would see the promise land. So, Moses is now speaking to a new generation of Israelites. He is recounting all of the laws and is reminding them all that has taken place so they may remember and keep Gods commands. Most important, Moses is telling them that if they obey the laws and decrees, it will be a witness to other nations showing how great and mighty is our God. His decrees and laws are righteous.
Application
As a parent, I can appreciate how important it is to pass our faith along to the next generation (our children). We should lead each of our children to Christ and show them the love of Jesus in our homes. Our faith should shine in our homes so our children can clearly see our love for God and his Word. When it comes time for our children to “Cross the Jordan” in life and be on their own, they will be equipped and prepared to walk with God. More important, they will remember how they were raised in a home that honors God and have a desire to share that same faith to their children.
Prayer
Thank you God for the blessing of children. Thank you that we can help lead them to you and your kingdom. Help me to be a witness of your love to my family so that they will pass their faith to their children. Thank you Lord that one day, I will be with my family in your presence in heaven.
