“Observe and hear all these words which I command thee, that it may go well with thee, and with thy children after thee forever, when thou doest that which is good and right in the sight of the LORD thy God.”
Historical Context:The book of Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Old Testament and is attributed to Moses. It contains a series of speeches given by Moses to the Israelites just before they entered the Promised Land. In this particular verse, Moses is exhorting the Israelites to observe and obey the commandments of God, emphasizing that doing so will lead to blessings for them and their future generations.
Obedience and Blessings:The verse begins with the command to “observe and hear all these words.” This highlights the importance of attentively listening to and obeying God’s commandments. The purpose of this obedience is two‑fold: first, that it may go well with the Israelites, and second, that it may go well with their children after them.
Personal Well‑being:When the Israelites obeyed God’s commandments, it resulted in personal blessings and well‑being. Obedience to God’s instructions brings about a life that is aligned with His principles, leading to spiritual, emotional, and even physical blessings. God desires His people to live in harmony with His will, which brings about true fulfillment and flourishing.
Generational Blessings:The obedience of one generation can have a profound impact on the generations that follow. By following God’s commands, the Israelites ensured that their children and future descendants would also experience the benefits and blessings of a life lived in obedience to God. This demonstrates the generational nature of God’s covenant with His people.
Doing What Is Good and Right:The verse concludes by emphasizing the importance of doing what is good and right in the sight of the Lord. The Israelites were not only called to observe and hear God’s commandments but also to act accordingly. True obedience involves aligning one’s actions with God’s standards of righteousness and goodness.
Moral and Ethical Living:The phrase “that which is good and right in the sight of the LORD” refers to living a life that is characterized by moral and ethical conduct. God’s commandments provide guidance on how to live justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with Him (Micah 6:8). As God’s people, the Israelites were to exemplify His character and values in their daily lives.
Seeking God’s Approval:The focus on doing what is good and right in the sight of the Lord highlights the importance of seeking God’s approval rather than merely conforming to societal norms or personal preferences. The Israelites were called to live in obedience to God’s standards, recognizing that His assessment of their actions ultimately mattered the most.
In summary:Deuteronomy 12:28 encourages the Israelites to attentively listen to and obey God’s commandments. By doing so, they would experience personal well‑being and ensure generational blessings for their children and descendants. The verse also emphasizes the importance of living a life characterized by moral and ethical conduct, seeking to do what is good and right in the sight of the Lord.
