Deuteronomy 9:23-11:21
The people are reminded here of how Moses interceded again for them at Kadesh-barnea, when they murmured at the report of the spies, and would not go into the land. There again God had come in and spared them, as at Sinai.
Moses told them of how he went up into the mount the second time, and of how God gave him the law again, but on this occasion it was put into the ark. This is a beautiful type of how the Lord Jesus (the true “Ark”) is the only One who could meet God’s holy requirements, and — blessed be His Name — He has done this, magnifying the law and making it honorable.
New Life Necessary for Fruit
Since God had been gracious to them and shown His patient love, the people are called upon to show their appreciation by walking in obedience. Moreover Moses told them that it would be for their own good to do so, for God could then bless them abundantly, as He desired to do. It was not just the outward form of circumcision that God wanted, but a heart that walked in His ways. This was what He required, but alas they could not give it, for the law could not give new life, and this is what was needed before there could be any fruit for God. Though the people were, of course, still under trial, it was being proven over and over again that “they that are in the flesh cannot please God” (Romans 8:8). All God’s pleadings and entreaties, so lovingly given to them in these chapters, did not produce the desired result.
The people had seen the works of God before their very eyes. It was not just something they had heard, but wonders they had seen themselves, so they had no excuse if they did not believe, for full testimony had been given.
Earthly Blessing
Once again we notice that the promised blessings were of a material nature. God promised rain when they needed it, grass for their cattle, and good crops. All this is in direct contrast with our blessings as Christians now, for we are not promised good crops and earthly prosperity, but only food and raiment (1 Timothy 6:8). We are, however, told that we are, even now, “blessed with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ” (Ephesians 1:3). Some day soon, faith will be changed to sight, for we shall rise to meet the Lord in the air — to dwell forever in our heavenly home. Let us not look for earthly blessing, God may graciously grant it at times, but it is not our promised portion.
The charge for the children of Israel to teach their children the law is repeated here. We cannot overestimate its importance, especially in this present day, for as we look around we see so many Christian homes where the children have not walked in the ways of the Lord, but have wandered away into the world. May we not often trace it to a lack of faithfulness in the home? God wants our homes to be happy, as He promised Israel here that they might be “as the days of heaven upon the earth.” There is no sweeter spot on earth than a Christian home where there is God’s order, and as a result of God’s blessing. If, however, we try to arrange our homes according to our own thoughts, seeking the ease and comfort of the world, with position and high education for our children, we shall prove the foolishness of our choice. There will be sorrow instead of blessing. Let Christian parents be warned.
Further Meditations
1. What kind of material blessings were promised to Israel?
2. What are some of the proper attitudes that should be present in a Christian home? You might start your answer by looking at Ephesians 5.
3. Thinking about godly Christian homes is essential for any parent. Surprisingly enough you can find some excellent instruction in The Institution of Marriage and Related Subjects by P. Wilson.