Deuteronomy·Chapter 31

How to Apply

Think about someone in your life who could use your support or mentorship. This week, reach out to that person and offer guidance, just like Moses did for Joshua. It could be a friend, a younger sibling, or a colleague. Share your experiences, offer encouragement, and help them prepare for their next steps. Also, reflect on areas in your life where you may need to let go and allow others to take charge. Embrace that change and trust the process!

Chapter Context

This verse is a crucial turning point in the story. Leading up to this moment, Moses has been guiding the Israelites through the wilderness for decades, facing challenges, doubts, and triumphs. Now, as they are on the edge of entering the Promised Land, the reality hits that Moses won't be leading them in. This moment of commissioning Joshua is essential—it’s about preparing for a future without Moses. It’s a blend of mourning and celebration, as Moses realizes he must empower Joshua to lead the people forward. This gives the chapter its dramatic tension, marking not just an end, but the beginning of a new journey.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• lord - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• said - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• moses - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• behold - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• days - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• approach - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• die - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• call - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• joshua - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• present - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

What does it mean for you to pass on your knowledge or support to someone else in your life, just like Moses did with Joshua?

Related Verses

• Joshua 1:1-2 - Right after Moses’ death, God tells Joshua to lead the people into the Promised Land, highlighting the immediate transition of leadership.
• Exodus 17:9 - Moses had already shown trust in Joshua by asking him to lead the battle against the Amalekites, establishing their connection and Joshua's capabilities.
• Numbers 27:18 - God tells Moses that Joshua has the spirit of leadership, reinforcing why Moses chose him, showing that this was a planned transition.
• Deuteronomy 34:5-8 - This verse shows Moses’ death and the mourning period, confirming the emotional weight of the moment of commissioning Joshua.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in Deuteronomy 31:14. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

Leadership Transition, Divine Guidance, Covenant Faithfulness, Importance of Law, Warning Against Idolatry, Public Remembrance, Strength and Courage

Key Verses

Deuteronomy 31:6, Deuteronomy 31:8, Deuteronomy 31:12, Deuteronomy 31:19, Deuteronomy 31:20

Historical Context

Deuteronomy 31 occurs within the broader narrative of Moses' farewell addresses to the Israelites, as he prepares them for their entry into the Promised Land. This chapter is crucial as it marks the transition of leadership from Moses to Joshua, highlighting the promise of God’s presence and support. It also serves as a reminder of the covenant relationship between God and Israel, emphasizing the importance of adherence to the Law and the consequences of turning away from God. The chapter is set against the backdrop of imminent change, as the Israelites prepare to leave behind their wandering in the wilderness for a new life in Canaan.