READING: Deuteronomy 32-34
When I first became dean of a seminary a number of years ago, I used Deuteronomy 32 to give a challenge to new students. I wanted every new student to know that everything we would do would be based on the Word of God. We would not waver from that commitment, regardless of the cost. And, we’d be willing to give our lives if necessary to get that Word to the nations.
You see, the Bible is not just another book. We know that, of course, but I’m not always so sure that we live like we know that. I’m not convinced we understand the Word the way that Moses did when he challenged the Hebrews toward the end of his life: “Take to heart all the words I have solemnly declared to you this day, so that you may command your children to obey carefully all the words of this law. They are not just idle words for you—they are your life” (Deut 32:46-47a).
It’s the last part of this verse that stops me every time I read it: “They are not just idle words for you — they are your life.”
They — God's words — are my life. And, here’s the question that both challenges me and haunts me as I read this text: if I did not have the Word of God, would I die?
Think about it.
ACTION STEPS: Consider these steps:
- Honestly evaluate whether the Word of God is your life.
- If not, pray that God would make you hungry for Him again. You might even fast for some time, praying that you’d hunger for Him more than food on your table.
PRAYER: “God, teach me that Your Word really is life. Make me hungry.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Joshua 1-4
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