by Deuteronomy means “the second law.” Not a new law, but a rehearsal of the Law. The theme of Deuteronomy is “remember,” where the last phrase in this Book says, “thou shalt not forget it.” Deuteronomy is a series of sermons by Moses to a new generation of Israelite’s, preparing them to “go in and possess the land which the Lord sware unto your fathers” (8:1).
We have been promised another New Year, 2025, to possess for God’s honor and glory. With over 330 days remaining, God has some reminders from Deuteronomy 8 to encourage us along the way. This is a rehearsal of some blessings that should ring loud and clear in our hearts, especially after this month’s Presidential inauguration:
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We live in a good, beautiful land (8:7-8)
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We live in a fruitful, free land (8:9)
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We live in a blessed, wonderful house (8:10)
Moses goes on to tell Israel why they forget God. It was their heart, lifted in pride, assuming that all they had was from their own power (8:14-17). Moses lists a few things to intentionally remember, or we are in danger of forgetting as Israel did. Remember:
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Where God brought us from … [Egypt = this world]
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What God brought us through … [wilderness = journey in this world]
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What God has protected us from … [fiery serpent = Satan]
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What God has done for us … [He sustains us; rock = Jesus]
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What God is going to do for us … [later end = enter into our eternal life]
When you reach your later end, will you hear the blessed words, “Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord” (Matthew 25:23). If not, how then can you enter thou into the joy of thy lord? For one, by taking heed to Deuteronomy 8:11, “Beware that thou forget not the Lord thy God, in not keeping his commandments…”
