“And I fell down before the LORD, as at the first, forty days and forty nights: I did neither eat bread, nor drink water, because of all your sins which ye sinned, in doing wickedly in the sight of the LORD, to provoke him to anger.”
Context:The book of Deuteronomy is part of the Torah, the first five books of the Bible attributed to Moses. It contains Moses’ speeches and instructions to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land. In this particular passage, Moses recounts his experience during the forty-day period when he received the Ten Commandments from God on Mount Sinai.
Moses’ Encounter with God:In Deuteronomy 9:18, Moses recalls falling down before the Lord for forty days and forty nights. This event refers to the time when Moses was on Mount Sinai, communing with God and receiving the tablets of the Law. This incident is mentioned to emphasize Moses’ deep reverence and devotion to God.
Fasting and Prayer:Moses mentions that during those forty days and nights, he did not eat bread or drink water. This act of abstaining from food and drink is commonly known as fasting. Moses’ fasting and prayer demonstrate his complete dependence on God and his earnest desire to seek God’s favour and forgiveness on behalf of the Israelites.
The Sinfulness of Israel:Moses explains that he engaged in this period of intense intercession because of the sins committed by the Israelites. They had sinned greatly and acted wickedly in the sight of the Lord, provoking Him to anger. The Israelites had been rebellious, engaging in idolatry and disobedience, despite God’s numerous demonstrations of His power and faithfulness.
Moses’ Intercessory Role:Moses, as a mediator between God and the people, took on the responsibility of interceding for the Israelites. His actions display his deep concern for the people he led and his willingness to stand in the gap between them and God. Through his intercession, Moses sought to avert the severe judgment and consequences that the Israelites deserved for their transgressions.
Lessons for Believers:Deuteronomy 9:18 serves as a reminder of the importance of repentance, fasting, and intercession. It highlights the need for individuals to humble themselves before God, acknowledge their sins, and seek His forgiveness. Additionally, it teaches believers the value of interceding for others, displaying compassion and mercy, just as Moses did for the Israelites.
In summary, Deuteronomy 9:18 captures a significant moment in Moses’ encounter with God on Mount Sinai. Moses fell before the Lord, fasting for forty days and nights, as a result of the Israelites’ sinful actions. It underscores the importance of repentance, fasting, and intercession as essential aspects of seeking God’s mercy and forgiveness.
