Deuteronomy 34: The Death of Moses

Verses 1-3: “Now Moses went up from the plains of Moab to Mount Nebo, to the top of Pisgah, which is opposite Jericho. And the LORD showed him all the land, Gilead as far as Dan, and all Naphtali and the land of Ephraim and Manasseh, and all the land of Judah as far as the western sea, and the Negev and the plain in the valley of Jericho, the city of palm trees, as far as Zoar.”

Here, we find Moses at the end of his monumental journey, climbing the lofty heights of Mount Nebo. This moment signifies the culmination of his leadership and the unwavering faithfulness of God. The LORD, in His infinite grace, grants Moses a panoramic vision of the Promised Land, a land flowing with milk and honey. It is a touching fulfillment of His promise to the patriarchs, an affirmation of His unchanging faithfulness.

• Genesis 12:7: “To your offspring, I will give this land.”
• Genesis 28:13-14: “The land on which you lie I will give to you and to your descendants.”

Charles Spurgeon captures this beautifully: “God never forgets His promises. Our unbelief cannot rob Him of His faithfulness.”

As we reflect on this passage, let us consider our own journeys. Are we able to recognize God’s promises being fulfilled in our lives? Do we trust in His unwavering faithfulness, even when we may not see the end result ourselves?

Verse 4: “Then the LORD said to him, ‘This is the land which I swore to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, saying, “I will give it to your descendants”; I have let you see it with your eyes, but you shall not go over there.'”

God’s words to Moses are a poignant reminder of His unwavering faithfulness. Even though Moses will not enter the land, he is granted a vision of its beauty and abundance, a testament to God’s steadfast promises.

Let this be a moment of self-reflection: are there times when God shows us glimpses of His promises, yet we doubt? Do we hold onto the hope and trust that His plans are for our good, even when we cannot cross into the promised destination ourselves?

Verses 5-6: “So Moses, the servant of the LORD, died there in the land of Moab, according to the word of the LORD. And He buried him in the valley in the land of Moab, opposite Beth-peor; but no man knows his burial place to this day.”

Moses is affectionately referred to as “the servant of the LORD,” highlighting his humility and unwavering obedience. His unique burial, conducted by God Himself, signifies their extraordinary relationship.

• Numbers 12:3: “Now Moses was a very humble man, more humble than anyone else on the face of the earth.”
• Jude 1:9: “But Michael the archangel, when he disputed with the devil and argued about the body of Moses…”

Spurgeon reflected, “The sepulcher of Moses has never been discovered. Had it been, it might have been greatly revered.”

Consider Moses’ humility and obedience. Are we living lives marked by humility, serving faithfully without seeking recognition? Is our relationship with God characterized by a deep, personal connection that transcends worldly acknowledgment?

Verses 7-8: “Although Moses was 120 years old when he died, his eye was not dim, nor his vigor abated. So the sons of Israel wept for Moses in the plains of Moab 30 days; then the days of weeping and mourning for Moses came to an end.”

Moses’ physical strength and clear vision at 120 years old are a testament to his enduring vitality and the divine sustenance he received. His death marks the end of an era, and the people mourn him deeply, recognizing the immense void his departure leaves.

• Deuteronomy 34:10: “Since that time no prophet has risen in Israel like Moses, whom the LORD knew face to face.”
• Hebrews 11:24-29: Moses’ faith is celebrated in the “Hall of Faith.”

A.W. Tozer noted, “The true saint is one who acknowledges that every good thing he has is a gift from God.”

Reflect on Moses’ legacy. Do we recognize the gifts and strength that God bestows upon us? Are we living lives that inspire and leave a lasting impact on those around us? How do we want to be remembered, and what legacy are we building?

Joshua 1: God’s Charge to Joshua

Verses 1-2: “Now it came about after the death of Moses, the servant of the LORD, that the LORD spoke to Joshua the son of Nun, Moses’ servant, saying, ‘Moses My servant is dead; now, therefore, arise, cross this Jordan, you and all this people, to the land which I am giving to them, to the sons of Israel.'”

With Moses’ passing, God commands Joshua to take up the mantle of leadership and lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. This moment signifies the seamless continuity of God’s divine plan and His unfaltering commitment to His promises.

• Deuteronomy 31:7-8: “Be strong and courageous, for you shall go with this people into the land…”
• Numbers 27:18-20: The LORD instructs Moses to lay hands on Joshua, signaling the transfer of leadership.

John Calvin emphasizes, “God appoints His servants not for their own sake, but for the benefit of His people.”

Consider the mantle of leadership that God places on each of us. Are we ready to rise and cross our own Jordans, trusting in His guidance and provision? Do we recognize that our calling serves a greater purpose for His people?

Verses 3-5: “Every place on which the sole of your foot treads, I have given it to you, just as I spoke to Moses. From the wilderness and this Lebanon, even as far as the great river, the river Euphrates, all the land of the Hittites, and as far as the Great Sea toward the setting of the sun will be your territory. No man will be able to stand before you all the days of your life. Just as I have been with Moses, I will be with you; I will not fail you or forsake you.”

God’s promise to Joshua resonates with the same assurance and unwavering commitment He extended to Moses. The certainty of His perpetual presence is a wellspring of strength and courage for Joshua.

• Deuteronomy 31:6: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid…for the LORD your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.”
• Matthew 28:20: Jesus’ promise to His disciples: “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

Spurgeon writes, “Faithful is He that called thee, who also will do it.”

Reflect on God’s promises in your life. Do you trust in His continual presence and unfailing support? Are you stepping forward in faith, knowing that He goes with you, and that no obstacle can stand before His power?

Verses 6-9: “Be strong and courageous, for you shall give this people possession of the land which I swore to their fathers to give them. Only be strong and very courageous; be careful to do according to all the law which Moses My servant commanded you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, so that you may have success wherever you go. This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it; for then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have success. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”

God repeatedly commands Joshua to be strong and courageous, underscoring the paramount importance of obedience to the law and steadfast reliance on God’s Word.

• Deuteronomy 31:23: “The LORD gave this command to Joshua son of Nun: ‘Be strong and courageous…'”
• Psalm 1:2-3: The righteous man “delights in the law of the LORD, and on His law, he meditates day and night.”

A.W. Tozer challenges us with these words: “We must do God’s work in God’s way for it to be effective.”

As we ponder these verses, do we heed God’s call to strength and courage? Are we aligning our lives with His Word, meditating on it day and night? Are we careful to walk in His ways, trusting that He will make our paths prosperous?

Verses 10-11: “Then Joshua commanded the officers of the people, saying, ‘Pass through the midst of the camp and command the people, saying, “Prepare provisions for yourselves, for within three days you are to cross this Jordan, to go in to possess the land which the LORD your God is giving you, to possess it.”‘”

Joshua’s leadership begins with practical preparation and clear communication. He mobilizes the people, readying them for the monumental journey ahead.

Do we take practical steps in our own lives to prepare for the tasks God sets before us? Are we clear and effective in our communication, leading others with wisdom and foresight?

Reflections and Learnings:

What Did I Learn About God?

• God’s faithfulness is unwavering, and His promises endure through generations.
• God’s presence and guidance are essential for effective leadership and success.
• God values humility, obedience, and servitude in His leaders.

As we reflect on God’s nature, let us strive to emulate these qualities in our own lives. Are we anchoring our faith in His unchanging promises? Are we seeking His presence in every decision we make, understanding that true success comes from His guidance?

What Did I Learn About Man?

• Man is called to be obedient, courageous, and reliant on God’s strength and guidance.
• True leadership involves humility, faithfulness, and a commitment to God’s commands.
• Our legacy should reflect our faithfulness to God’s calling and our reliance on His grace.

Consider how we can embody these lessons in our daily lives. Are we walking in obedience and courage, trusting in God’s strength? Are we humble in our leadership, serving others with faithfulness and dedication? How will our legacy reflect our commitment to God’s calling and our reliance on His grace?

In the words of Spurgeon, “The grace that does not change my life will not save my soul.” And as Tozer aptly puts it, “It is not what a man does that determines whether his work is sacred or secular, it is why he does it.”

By immersing ourselves in these scriptures and drawing on the wisdom of these influential Christian thinkers, we can gain a deeper, more genuine understanding of God’s word and His call on our lives. May these insights inspire and guide your teaching, encouraging self-reflection and growth in faith and love.

Let us be reminded that every step we take, every decision we make, is an opportunity to draw closer to God and to fulfill His purposes for our lives. In humility, obedience, and unwavering faith, we find the strength and grace to navigate our own journeys, just as Moses and Joshua did.

What Will I Do About It?

1. Trust in God’s Promises:

• Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
• I will place my trust in God’s unwavering faithfulness, even when I cannot see the end result. I will hold onto the hope and assurance that His plans are for my good and His glory.

2. Embrace Humility and Obedience:

• James 4:10: “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.”
• I will strive to live a life marked by humility, serving faithfully without seeking recognition. I will deepen my relationship with God, seeking to honor Him in all I do, and acknowledging that every good thing I have is a gift from Him.

3. Lead with Courage and Faith:

• Deuteronomy 31:6: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid…for the LORD your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you.”
• I will rise to the leadership roles and responsibilities God places before me, trusting in His guidance and provision. I will step forward in faith, knowing that God goes with me and that no obstacle is too great for His power.

4. Meditate on God’s Word:

• Psalm 1:2-3: The righteous man “delights in the law of the LORD, and on His law, he meditates day and night.”
• I will align my life with God’s Word, meditating on it day and night. I will strive to walk in His ways, trusting that He will make my paths prosperous and guide me in righteousness.

5. Prepare and Communicate Effectively:

• Proverbs 22:3: “The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty.”
• I will take practical steps to prepare for the tasks God sets before me. I will communicate clearly and effectively, leading others with wisdom and foresight, ensuring that we are ready for the journeys ahead.

By integrating these reflections into my daily life, I aim to grow in faith, humility, and leadership, guided by God’s Word and the wisdom of those who have walked faithfully before me.