March 22

Deuteronomy 32-34; Psalm 91 (biblegateway.com)

Praise, Warning, and Remembrance

In Deuteronomy 32-34, Moses delivers his final words and blessings to the Israelites before his death. He recites the Song of Moses, blesses the tribes of Israel, and then ascends Mount Nebo, where he views the Promised Land before passing away. In Psalm 91, the psalmist reflects on God’s protection and faithfulness, declaring that those who trust in the Lord will find refuge and security under His care.

Moses was not only a prophet but also a composer of songs. After delivering three sermons, he chose to convey his message through a song of praise, warning, and remembrance. Deuteronomy 32 contains Moses’ final song, which provides a condensed history of Israel, reminding the people of their past failures, urging them to learn from their mistakes, and pointing them toward the hope that comes from trusting in God. This song is one of Moses’ last acts before his death, as he prepares to leave the people of Israel.

Moses begins by calling heaven and earth as witnesses to what he is about to say (v. 1). This poetic introduction establishes the universal significance of his words. He compares his teaching to rain and dew, symbolizing life-giving truth that nourishes the people spiritually (v. 2).

He then exalts God’s character, declaring Him as the Rock, a symbol of His unchanging nature, strength, and reliability (v. 4). God’s ways are perfect, His justice is flawless, and He is completely faithful and upright in all He does. This introduction sets the stage for a contrast between God’s faithfulness and Israel’s unfaithfulness.

Despite God’s faithfulness, Israel has acted corruptly, behaving like a perverse and crooked generation (v. 5). Moses reminds them that God created, established, and sustained them as His chosen people (v. 6). He urges them to remember their history, how God set them apart, guided them through the wilderness, and protected them like an eagle watching over its young (v. 7-12). God provided abundantly for Israel in the Promised Land, blessing them with the finest foods (v. 13-14). However, Jeshurun (which means the upright one, a poetic name for Israel used sarcastically here) grew complacent, becoming spiritually fat and rejecting the God who saved them (v. 15). They abandoned Him for false gods and idolatry, forgetting their Rock and their Redeemer (v. 16-18).

Prosperity can be a greater test of faith than adversity. When we struggle, we instinctively turn to God for help, recognizing our dependence on Him. However, in seasons of abundance, we may grow complacent, relying on our own strength and forgetting the One who provided for us. True spiritual maturity means remaining just as dependent on God in times of blessing as in times of hardship. Take time to evaluate your heart—are you seeking God as fervently in times of prosperity as you do in trials? Do you express gratitude for His provision and use your blessings to honor Him? This week, commit to daily thankfulness and intentional reliance on God, recognizing that every good gift comes from Him. Stay grounded in faith, remembering that true security is found not in material wealth but in a relationship with God.

As Moses continues, he reminds them that because of their rebellion, God declares that He will hide His face from Israel. Their idolatry provokes His jealousy, and in response, He will raise up foreign nations to bring judgment upon them. This will include war, famine, disease, and exile, demonstrating that turning away from God leads to devastation. God grieves over Israel’s lack of understanding, saddened that they fail to see how He fights for them. He reminds them that trusting in false gods is pointless because they have no real power compared to the one true God. The nations they rely on for help will instead become their oppressors (v. 19-33).

Idolatry and sin carry serious consequences, as the nation’s apostasy was revealed through their worship of idols. Moses, here, is warning the Israelites that idolatry and disobedience will lead to destruction. God will not ignore their sin, and His judgment will be severe. We would do well to heed the same warning. Turning away from God leads to spiritual blindness and physical consequences as we separate ourselves from the source of all life and blessing. Are there areas in your life where you may have turned away from God or allowed idolatry (things that take God’s place) to take root? We are called to turn away from anything that competes with our devotion to God. Reflect on areas of your life where you may have allowed idolatry to creep in. It could be anything that takes the place of God’s first place in your life—work, relationships, possessions, or ambitions. Repent and return to God, seeking His forgiveness and restoration.

Even though Israel rebels, God’s justice will prevail. He promises that judgment against their enemies is already prepared and will come at the right time. As the only true God, He alone holds the power over life and death to wound and heal. Yet, after Israel endures suffering, God will show them compassion, rescuing and restoring them while defeating their enemies (v. 34-42). The final verse calls all nations to rejoice because God will cleanse the land and atone for His people (v. 43). This foreshadows His ultimate redemption through Jesus Christ, whose sacrifice brings true atonement to all who believe.

After describing Israel’s rebellion, Moses turns to emphasize God’s justice, but also His mercy. God will judge Israel’s sin, but He will also bring about vindication for the righteous and restoration for those who return to Him. God will repay those who hate Him and who continue in their rebellion, but He will show mercy and restore those who repent. In our own lives, we must remember that while God’s justice demands judgment for sin, His mercy provides a way for us to be forgiven and restored. We are called to extend that same mercy to others. Are there people in your life whom you need to forgive? God calls us to reflect His mercy in our relationships. Consider offering forgiveness and seeking reconciliation in your relationships, knowing that God has shown us the ultimate mercy through Christ.

Moses concludes his song by calling Israel to obedience. He emphasizes that the words of the song are not just idle words, but are the very life of Israel. By obeying these commands, the people will experience life and blessings; disobedience, however, will lead to their downfall (v. 46-47). Moses encouraged the people to meditate on God’s word and teach it to their children. God extends this encouragement to us, as well. The Bible can sit on your shelf collecting dust, or you can make it a central part of your life by consistently setting aside time to study it. As you uncover the wisdom in God’s message, you will desire to apply it to your life and share it with your family and others. The Bible isn’t just something to read—it’s practical guidance for everyday life.

The chapter ends with God commanding Moses to go up Mount Nebo, where he will see the land of Canaan but will not be allowed to enter because of his disobedience at Meribah (Numbers 20:12, v. 48-52). This final scene is bittersweet—Moses, the faithful leader of Israel, must now prepare to die, ultimately leaving the nation in the hands of Joshua.

Deuteronomy 33 is the final blessing Moses gives to the tribes of Israel before his death. This chapter records Moses’ prophetic words and blessings over each of the tribes of Israel, offering a beautiful and poetic summary of their individual characteristics, their relationship with God, and the future they will experience.

Moses begins his blessing by acknowledging that the Lord came from Sinai to give His law to Israel. He describes the greatness and holiness of God, emphasizing that God’s relationship with Israel is unique, as they are His people, chosen and beloved (v. 2-5). Moses then goes on to bless each tribe of Israel individually. While the blessings for each tribe reflect the characteristics of the tribes and their individual roles in the future, they also represent God’s ongoing faithfulness to His covenant with Israel.

Reuben was the eldest son of Jacob and hence is listed first. Moses blesses Reuben, asking that they be alive and prosperous, not dying out or losing their inheritance (v. 6). This reading could reflect the curse on Reuben in Gen. 49:3, 4. Moses blesses Judah with strength in battle, asking that the tribe be victorious over its enemies (v. 7). Since Judah marched at the head of the tribes (Num. 2:9), she was first in battle. So, this blessing was essentially a prayer for Judah’s military success by God’s help.

Moses blesses Levi, along with his tribe, for their faithfulness to God as priests and teachers. Moses prays that the tribe continues to be skilled instruments of God’s will on behalf of the people (v. 8-11). Moses blesses Benjamin with God’s favor and protection (v. 12). Moses’ prayer for Benjamin as the beloved of the Lord reflects Benjamin’s special status as Jacob’s youngest and particularly loved son. Moses blesses Joseph for his fruitfulness and abundance, receiving prosperity and great blessings in the land (v. 13-17).

Moses blesses both Zebulun and Issachar for their future prosperity. They are described as calling nations to worship and benefiting from “the abundance of the seas and treasures hidden in the sand” (v. 18-19). This may suggest a partnership—Zebulun as traders and Issachar as scholars or agriculturalists.

Moses blesses Gad for its courage and victory in battle and is promised land and blessing in the future (v. 20-21). The translation of some of these lines is unclear, but the overall meaning seems to suggest that even though Gad was given its territory east of the Jordan and chose the best land (3:12-17), the tribe still fought courageously (like a lion) during the conquest of Canaan. In doing so, the Gadites fulfilled the Lord’s will.

Moses blesses Dan for its strength and calls Dan a lion’s cub (v. 22). Moses blesses Naphtali for their abundant blessings and fullness of favor (v. 23). Naphtali is promised great prosperity and blessings from God with an inheritance southward to the lake. These blessings seem to locate Dan in the north of the land, predicting its migration to the north (see Judges 18). Naphtali’s land bordered the Sea of Galilee.

Moses blesses Asher with promises of abundance, wealth, and prosperity, assuring that the tribe will thrive in the land (v. 24-25). The name “Asher,” meaning “blessed” or “happy,” reflects the richness of the blessing. To bathe one’s feet in oil, rather than merely anointing them, symbolizes extravagant luxury. Olive oil, a precious resource used for food and fuel, represents the tribe’s material prosperity. Furthermore, the mention of iron and bronze bolts signifies the tribe’s military strength and security, ensuring their protection and stability.

Notice the different blessings God gave to each tribe—one received the best land, another strength, and another safety. It’s easy to look at someone else’s blessing and think that God must love them more than others. Instead, we should understand that God brings out the unique talents in each person. All of these gifts are necessary to fulfill His plan. Rather than feeling envious of others’ blessings, focus on discovering the gifts God has given you and commit to carrying out the tasks He has uniquely equipped you to do.

Moses concludes his blessings by praising the greatness of God and acknowledging that no one compares to Him. He describes how God is the eternal refuge for His people, and He provides strength and protection. Moses reminds Israel that God is their shield, and He will provide them with the victory and the blessings in the land He promised them. Moses then affirms that the blessings of Israel come from God alone, and that no one is greater than their God. The final verses focus on the blessings Israel will experience when they follow God, living in His promised land and under His protection (v. 26-29).

Deuteronomy 33 marks the end of Moses’ leadership, offering a final blessing for the tribes of Israel and a reminder of the faithfulness and greatness of God. Moses’ blessing emphasizes God’s provision, protection, and the covenant relationship that God has established with Israel. While each tribe is blessed according to its unique role and destiny, the overarching message is that God is the source of all blessings. As Moses transitions leadership to Joshua, Israel is reminded to remain faithful to God, trusting in His provision and faithfulness. For us today, this chapter calls us to remember God’s greatness, live in obedience, and trust in His faithful promises to bless and guide us. May we, like Israel, experience the blessings of being in a right relationship with God, trusting Him as our source of life and protection.

Deuteronomy 34 marks the final chapter of the book of Deuteronomy and the end of Moses’ life and leadership over Israel. It describes the death of Moses, his final views of the Promised Land, and the transition of leadership to Joshua.

The chapter begins by recounting how Moses ascended Mount Nebo, to the peak of Pisgah, which is located across from Jericho (v. 1). From this vantage point, Moses is able to see the Promised Land in its entirety: Gilead, Dan, Naphtali, Ephraim, Manasseh, Judah, the Negev, and the Jordan Valley (v. 2). This moment is significant because Moses, who had led Israel for over 40 years through the wilderness, is allowed to see the land that God promised to give to His people, even though he is not permitted to enter it himself. His journey as the leader of Israel comes to a close with the fulfillment of God’s promises, even though Moses himself will not enter the land (v. 4). After God’s declaration, Moses dies there in the land of Moab, in accordance with God’s command (v. 5). Even in moments of unfulfilled promises, God’s faithfulness remains evident. Sometimes we are called to serve faithfully even when we do not see the fulfillment of all of God’s promises in our lifetime. Trust that God’s plan continues beyond us.

Though Moses was being disciplined for his act of unbelief by not being allowed to enter the Promised Land, he died in faith and as an honored servant of the Lord. Additional honor was given to Moses, for the Lord Himself buried him. The text briefly mentions that God buried Moses in a valley in the land of Moab, near Beth Peor, but to this day, no one knows the exact location of his grave (v. 6). This mysterious burial is significant because it shows that God personally cared for Moses, even in his death. The same is true for us. God’s care extends beyond life, even to our death and burial. Trust in God’s sovereign care over all aspects of your life, including the end of your journey.

Due to its obscurity, the people of Israel were not permitted to worship or venerate Moses’ grave, ensuring that their worship remained focused solely on God rather than on the leader who had played a pivotal role in their deliverance from Egypt. However, after Moses’ death, the Israelites mourned for him in the plains of Moab for thirty days, a time of national grief that underscored Moses’ significance as their leader and spiritual guide (v. 7-8). His leadership was unparalleled, and his death marked a major turning point for Israel. The mourning period not only reflected the deep sense of loss the people felt but also served as a reminder of God’s sovereign control over Israel’s future.

With Moses’ death, Joshua steps into leadership. The passage tells us that Joshua, son of Nun, is filled with the spirit of wisdom because Moses had laid his hands on him, signifying the transfer of leadership (v. 9). The people of Israel obey Joshua as they had obeyed Moses, showing their trust in God’s decision and the continuation of God’s plan through new leadership.

This marks a new era for Israel, as the leadership shifts from Moses to Joshua, but the continuity of God’s promises remains unchanged. Joshua is tasked with leading Israel across the Jordan and into the Promised Land, a transition that underscores God’s faithfulness to His covenant with the people.

Moses is described as the greatest prophet who ever lived, and no one has ever risen like him again in Israel. God knew Moses face to face, and Moses performed miraculous signs and wonders in Egypt, across the wilderness, and before all Israel. These remarkable deeds demonstrated the power of God working through Moses. His unique relationship with God, his ability to speak directly with God, and his leadership set him apart as a pillar of Israel’s history (v. 10-12). God still works powerfully through His faithful servants today. The life of Moses should encourage us to remain faithful in the work God gives us, knowing that even when we are no longer present, the fruit of our labor will continue in the lives of others.

Deuteronomy 34 closes the Book of Deuteronomy with a poignant tribute to Moses and a transition to Joshua’s leadership. While Moses’ death marks the end of an era, God’s covenant with Israel remains unbroken. As the people mourn and the leadership transitions, we are reminded that God’s work continues beyond any individual, and His sovereign plan for His people will be fulfilled.

Moses’ life teaches us the importance of obedience, faithfulness, and godly leadership, leaving a legacy that honors God’s faithfulness in all generations. Moses’ life, though ending on this mountain, was not in vain. His legacy lives on in the hearts of the Israelites, and ultimately, in all of humanity through the faithfulness of God’s promises. His obedience to God, endurance through trials, and humble service inspire us to live with purpose, trusting that our obedience to God has eternal significance, even when we may not see the full fruit of our labor.

As Moses ascended that mountain, gazing out over the Promised Land he would never enter, we are reminded that sometimes, God calls us to faithfully serve in ways that may not lead to immediate rewards. But just as God was faithful to Moses, He is faithful to us, even beyond our time. Our impact in God’s kingdom extends far beyond our individual lives.

Moses’ final words and his life serve as a beautiful reminder to us all: God is with us in every season, and even when we face the end of a chapter, His work continues in new and powerful ways. Let us be encouraged to live our lives with purpose, knowing that God is writing our story, and our legacy can be one of obedience, faithfulness, and a life lived for His glory. Just as Moses was faithful to the very end, may we also be faithful in the calling God has placed on our lives, trusting that He will lead us and guide us into the future He has prepared.

Psalm 91

Psalm 91 is a powerful and comforting psalm that emphasizes God’s protection, refuge, and deliverance. While its author is unknown, Jewish tradition attributes the psalm to Moses, and it aligns with the themes found in Deuteronomy. The psalm speaks to the security and peace that come from trusting in God, especially in times of danger, fear, and adversity. It highlights the intimacy between the believer and God, portraying Him as a shelter, shield, and fortress. The psalm encourages believers to rely on God’s faithfulness and care, confident that He is always with them, even in the most difficult circumstances

The psalm begins with a declaration of God as the refuge and fortress of those who seek His protection. The psalmist confidently states that those who dwell in the secret place of the Most High will rest under the shadow of the Almighty (v. 1). This image of resting in God’s presence speaks to a deep sense of security and peace found in Him. The psalmist declares that God is not only a refuge but also a fortress, a place of strength and safety in times of trouble.

In verse 2, the psalmist personally affirms God as his refuge and fortress, declaring, “My God, in whom I trust” (v. 2). This statement emphasizes the personal relationship with God and the trust that the believer places in Him. The first two verses set the tone of the psalm as one that emphasizes God’s protection and the security found in Him.

God, today, is our refuge and fortress, offering protection, strength, and safety to those who trust in Him. Just as the psalmist finds refuge in God, we are called to place our trust in God, seeking His protection and peace in the midst of life’s challenges. Reflect on the areas of your life where you may feel vulnerable or exposed. Trust in God’s protection and take refuge in His presence, knowing that He is a fortress in times of trouble.

The psalmist continues to describe the protection and deliverance that God offers. He promises to deliver the believer from hidden dangers, such as deadly diseases and threats that might not be immediately visible (v. 3). God’s protection is further illustrated through the imagery of wings, as He will cover and shelter His people under His wings, like a mother bird protects her young (v. 4). This speaks of the tender care and faithfulness God shows toward His people.

Verses 5-6 describe the fear of things like terror by night and arrows by day—common dangers faced by the believer. Yet, the psalm assures the reader that God’s protection covers them from such threats, whether they are physical or spiritual dangers.

Verses 7-8 reassure the believer that, even though many may fall or suffer in the world, those who trust in God will be protected and will see the consequences of the wicked’s actions without suffering the same fate. This is not a promise of immunity from hardship but an assurance that God will protect His people from ultimate harm.

In verses 9-13, the psalmist emphasizes that those who make God their dwelling place and refuge will experience divine protection from evil and harm. God will send His angels to guard and protect them, keeping them from stumbling and from the traps set by the enemy. The psalm concludes with the promise that those who love God will be rescued, protected, and blessed. God promises to answer their prayers, be with them in times of trouble, and deliver them from distress (v. 14-16).

Psalm 91 offers a powerful message of comfort and hope. It reminds us that when we trust in God, we can find refuge and security in His protection. No matter the danger or fear we face, God promises to be with us, delivering us from harm and offering us peace in times of trouble. This psalm calls us to rest in God’s faithfulness, trusting in His protection and deliverance. As we reflect on this truth, let us be encouraged to love God more deeply and seek His presence as our refuge and fortress, knowing that He will keep us safe and honor us with His salvation.

Psalm 91 resonates with the themes found in Deuteronomy, reminding Israel (and believers today) of the importance of trusting in God’s sovereign care and protection as they move forward in faith, just as Israel was about to enter the Promised Land under God’s guidance.