Day 73 – Deuteronomy 8-10

Talking Points

• These chapters seem to be focused on remembering and warning.
• Remember — “…all the way which the LORD your God has led you…” (8:2). God was interested in knowing their hearts belonged to Him. He reminded them that He was their Provision. He pointed out how He had delivered them, acting on their behalf. He brought to mind how He had shown His graciousness in their sin and rebellion. And, He reminded them of His promises kept.
• He warned them — when you have entered the land “and are satisfied, you shall bless the LORD your God…” (8:10). God warned His people against pride and self-righteousness. He cautioned them not to set aside or neglect His commands and ordinances. He commanded them not to “forget” Him, especially in their times of abundance.
• God rewrites the Ten Commandments, this time on tablets of stone. Moses brings them to the people after interceding on their behalf.
• God reveals that His laws point to the true result that He desires in His people. He wants them totally given to Him, walking with Him. He wants their devotion, their hearts, and their minds. And, He wants that all to be motivated in their deep love for Him (10:12-13). God’s desire is for the intimacy of their relationship to result in Him being their “praise” and their joy (10:21). In giving the law, He is not a severe taskmaster, but rather a loving and compassionate God.
• It is awesome how obeying God in this land will be based upon their remembrances of Him in the past. Remembering how they had walked with God, they were to stay close to Him. Seeing God’s character in past events, they were to trust Him in the future. Whether in the wilderness or in the Promised Land — God is faithful!

Thoughts

One of the greatest challenges in our walks with God is battling arrogance. When things don’t go our way and we find ourselves in dire circumstances, we are more likely to cry out to Him for help, relief, wisdom, and mercy. But, when we have everything we need — food, housing, financial security, and success — it is easy to slip into prideful conceit and forget that every good thing we have is from our gracious God.

As they prepared to enter this good land of plenty, this was God’s warning to the Israelites. We would be wise to take the warning for ourselves today. Consider that whether God humbles and tests our hearts or brings us “into a good land,” we have the opportunity to remember who He is – His power, His goodness, His grace, His righteousness, His faithfulness – and to know it is from Him that all good gifts come (8:7).