# 39 2016 Dev. Dt. 31:8. The purpose of these devotionals is to draw closer to God by memorizing selected passages of Scripture. Further, to view the passage in context and grow spiritually by applying His Word to our daily living with family, friends and others. All passages are taken from the NIV.
Deuteronomy 31:8
“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.”
The meaning of the word “Deuteronomy” has been mistranslated as the law repeated or the second law but the meaning is: “a copy of the law”. The occasion is the transition from Moses’ leadership to Joshua and preparation to enter into the promised land. Broadly speaking the whole historical event of the enslavement of Abraham’s decedents in Egypt, the release of slavery under Moses’ leadership, the wandering in the desert and the entry into the promised land mirrors the Good News in Jesus Christ.
We were enslaved by sin, (Satan) we wandered in the desert of our broken world. God, Father, Son and Holy Spirit continued to guide us. When we accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior we are set free and are assured eternal life with Him. Historically speaking in this life we stand at the brink of the promised land but God who is outside of history has already recreated us into eternal life.
The verse for this week is in the context (Dt. 31:7-8) of that transition from Moses’ leadership to Joshua and from the desert to the promise land. This is the story behind our story. Today it applies to us, those who follow Jesus and applies to our individual context and situation.
“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you”. Whatever situation we may face today this holds true; He prepares the way ahead and he walks with us. “He will never leave you nor forsake you”. This is a promise; no matter how difficult things may become God promises never to leave us. “Do not be afraid” God says, do not give into fear, I am here with you! “Do not be discouraged”. How easily we are discouraged at times but God says to us I am in control, you are my children, I will take care of you. “Trust me” Jesus says!
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