“The LORD our God said to us in Horeb, ‘You have stayed long enough at this mountain.

Deuteronomy 1:6

Deuteronomy is the final book in the Pentateuch, and it is composed of sermons written by Moses, as he calls Israel to remember who God is and what He has done for them. Moses reminds them of the old generation who gave up in the wilderness, never finding the promised land. Moses then prepares the current generation to possess the promised land. He also restates the covenant to remind Israel of God’s promises to them.

Moses takes us on a journey to ensure past mistakes are not repeated and to encourage us that commitments must be fulfilled. Moses uses memories of past events to encourage and move us toward action. This book reminds us that because of what God has done, we should have hope alongside Israel to follow Him; because of what He expects, we should listen and obey; and because of who He is, we should love Him completely.

Moses now explains to the current generation of Israelites what the Lord has done for them, so the Israelites can confidently give their full allegiance to this One God, who has already proven Himself as their protector and guide. Even today it’s helpful for us to remember God’s faithfulness to earlier generations in our own families and nations. Our confidence in God is strengthened most when we recall how He has worked directly in our own lives to protect, provide for, and guide us. Voice Translation

As we read Deuteronomy, take time to remember how God has expressed His kindness in your life, remember promises He’s fulfilled, then commit yourself afresh to trust, love, and obey Him completely.