“But thou shalt remember the LORD thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as it is this day.”
Context:Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Old Testament, which contains Moses’ final speeches to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land. In this particular chapter, Moses reminds the Israelites of God’s faithfulness and provision during their forty-year journey in the wilderness.
Key Message:Deuteronomy 8:18 emphasizes the importance of acknowledging God as the source of our abilities, opportunities, and blessings. It highlights that wealth and prosperity are not solely a result of human effort, but ultimately come from God’s gracious provision.
Study Points:
- Remembering the LORD: The verse begins with a call to remember the LORD. Throughout the Israelites’ journey, God had constantly provided for their needs, such as manna from heaven and water from the rock. It is crucial to maintain a posture of remembrance and gratitude for all that God has done in our lives.
- God gives the power to gain wealth: The verse acknowledges that it is God who grants the ability and opportunity to acquire wealth. It implies that success and prosperity should not lead to pride or self-sufficiency, but rather to a humble recognition of God’s involvement in our lives.
- Establishing the covenant: The purpose behind God granting the power to gain wealth is to fulfill His covenant with the Israelites’ forefathers. God had made promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and He intended to fulfill them through their descendants. Similarly, when God blesses us, it is often for the purpose of fulfilling His greater plans and purposes.
- God’s faithfulness to His promises: The verse emphasizes that God’s covenant with the Israelites’ forefathers remains in effect even in the present day. It reminds us of God’s faithfulness and the enduring nature of His promises. We can trust in His faithfulness as we seek to walk in obedience and honor Him with the resources He has entrusted to us.
Application:
- Gratitude and remembrance: Take time to reflect on the blessings and provisions God has bestowed upon you. Cultivate a heart of gratitude and regularly remember God’s faithfulness in your life.
- Recognize the source of your abilities and resources: Acknowledge that the talents, skills, and opportunities you have are gifts from God. Avoid the temptation to take credit solely for your achievements but humbly recognize God’s role in your success.
- Stewardship: Understand that wealth and resources are entrusted to us by God. Develop a mindset of stewardship, using your blessings wisely and in alignment with God’s principles. Seek to be a good steward by generously sharing your resources with others and supporting God’s work.
- Trust in God’s promises: Just as God fulfilled His covenant with the Israelites, He remains faithful to His promises today. Trust in His faithfulness, knowing that He will guide and provide for you as you seek to honor Him with your resources and talents.
