June 5, 2020

Read – Deuteronomy 32:48-33:29

What does it say?
Moses spoke a blessing on the Israelites before his death.

What does it mean?
Moses proclaimed God’s blessing on the nation of Israel, a nation that stood at the doorway of a new home accompanied by the presence of Almighty God. The blessings were words of promise and words of hope – reminders that they were a people with a special relationship with the God who loved them, provided for them, strengthened them, and guided them. As a nation, as a tribe, as a family, they were taking part in God’s plan for the entire world. After leading and teaching them God’s ways for over 40 years, Moses had an understanding of their strengths, weaknesses, and uniqueness. From that knowledge, he declared a prophetic blessing specific to each tribe with the hope that they would remember and share what God had done.

How should I respond?
Followers of Christ often talk about feeling or being “blessed.” But today’s passage gives us a better understanding of what it means to be blessed by the Lord. Believers who experience God’s blessing recognize that He is present and actively at work in their lives. How do you see God’s blessing in your life? Scripture promises blessing on those who live by faith – those who hear and obey the Word of God (Gal. 3:9; Luke 11:28). God’s blessing is a call to action. If we take part in God’s grace, we should take part in His plan. How are you fulfilling that responsibility?