Deuteronomy (Bible in 90 Days)

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Reading Deuteronomy is like reading a recap of the past several years since Moses led God's people out of Egypt. I have to be honest and say that it all feels really repetitive. But at the same time it is important to remember good and bad times and truly learn the lessons God teaches us.

The progression of Deuteronomy is like a textbook providing the guidelines for future generations as Moses hands over his leadership to Joshua.

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The first thing we learn is what God has already done for us. Then Moses reminds us of all the laws and how to live hold for the Lord. For me the condensed reminder of the Ten Commandments are the most powerful (Deuteronomy 5:1-22). He also reminds us of the rules for worship, leadership and relationships and the consequences of being disobedient.

My favorite verse in Deuteronomy is a simple yet beautiful one:
"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength." Deuteronomy 6:5

Moses then calls for a commitment for God:
"Now listen! Today I am giving you a choice between life and death, between prosperity and disaster. For I command you this day to Love the Lord your God and to keep his commands, decrees, and regulations by walking in his ways. If you do this, you will live and multiply, and the Lord your God will bless you and the land you are about to enter and occupy." Deuteronomy 30:15-16

Deuteronomy ends with Moses' death. He turns his leadership over to Joshua:
"Then Moses called for Joshua, and as all Israel watched, he said to him, "Be strong and courageous! For you will lead these people into the land that the Lord swore to their ancestors he would give them...Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the Lord will personally go ahead of you. He will be with you; he will neither fail you nor abandon you." Deuteronomy 31:7-8

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After a beautiful song, Moses climbs up Mount Nebo where God show him the Promised Land (Deut. 34:4). Moses dies there and the Lord buries him (Deut. 34:5-6). Moses was 120 years old when he dies and as strong as ever (Deut. 34:7). The people of Israel mourned for the loss of their faithful leader. Then after thirty days (the customary end of mourning) the Israelites set out to enter the Promised Land following Joshua (Deut. 34:8-9).

"There has never been another prophet in Israel like Moses, whom the Lord knew face to face." Deuteronomy 34:10