“FAITHFUL THEN AND NOW”
(Deuteronomy 1:1 – 3:29)
And I commanded Joshua at that time, “Your eyes have seen all that the Lord your God has done to these two kings. So will the Lord do to all the kingdoms into which you are crossing. You shall not fear them, for it is the Lord your God who fights for you.” – Deuteronomy 3:21-22
We made it! We’ve just finished a journey through the wilderness with the Israelites of 39 years and 10 1/2 months. Now we join them at the beginning of the book of Deuteronomy in the plains of Moab just east of the Jordan River.
Deuteronomy records Moses’ last words to the people of Israel before they enter the Promised Land. In a series of three sermons, Moses is recounting God’s faithfulness to Israel; what God expects of Israel; and what God has promised to do for Israel.
In these opening three chapters Moses recounts the previous generation’s disobedience and destruction, this new generation’s obedience, and the hope they have in God’s promises for their future. This is the pattern we ought to live by today as well. Remember the past and learn from the mistakes and sins of others. And consider how faithful God has been to us and live in obedience and hope.
Moses summarizes this in chapter three (vv. 21-22): “You have seen what I’ve [God] done to lead you to victory, I promise to do it again, so have faith and don’t fear.”
Let’s apply this truth today. Heed the words in Hebrews 12:1-2 … “lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith” for the promise of joy and hope.
If we remember God’s faithfulness we will love Him. If we love Him, we will obey Him. If we obey Him, He will lead us into future victory.
Pray for…
- Wisdom to learn from past examples and God’s grace to turn from sin and walk in obedience.
- Courage to face challenges as we trust in the promises of God for ultimate victory knowing that He is fighting battles for us.
- Hope is rooted in God’s steadfast promises that He is the same yesterday, today, and forever (Hebrews 13:8).
About our Author
John A Pra was born and raised in Queens, NY and has lived almost all of his life in the metropolitan area. After graduating from Bible college (now University of Valley Forge) he entered into full-time pastoral ministry. John and his wife, Diana, have been living in Carlstadt since 1990, pastoring Cornerstone Church and now at Transformation Life Church since 2022.
John and Diana have been married for 39 years and have three children and one granddaughter (who owns them). Besides loving time spent with family, he enjoys sports, reading, travel, and the golf course.
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