“Thou shalt follow that which is altogether just, that thou mayest live, and inherit the land which the Lord thy God giveth thee.”
Pursuing Justice: The verse emphasizes the importance of seeking justice and righteousness in all aspects of life. God’s command to the Israelites is clear: they are to follow what is “altogether just.” This implies a call to act with integrity and fairness in their dealings with one another and the world around them. As believers today, we are also called to pursue justice and righteousness in our thoughts, actions, and interactions with others.
Living Righteously: The verse indicates that by following what is just, one will experience life. In the context of the Israelites, it referred to living in accordance with God’s commandments and experiencing the blessings that come with obedience. Similarly, for believers today, living a life of righteousness, guided by God’s principles, leads to a deeper and more abundant life in Christ.
Inheriting the Land: In the Old Testament, the Israelites were promised the land of Canaan as their inheritance. By obeying God’s commandments and following what is just, they would be able to enter and possess the land. This concept extends beyond the physical land for believers today. Through obedience and righteousness, we can experience the abundant spiritual inheritance that God has prepared for us, including His presence, blessings, and eternal life.
God’s Provision and Promises: The verse highlights that the land being given to the Israelites is a gift from the Lord their God. It emphasizes that God is the source of their inheritance and that they can trust in His provision. This reminds us that as believers, our blessings and provision also come from God. When we pursue justice and live according to His commandments, we can trust that God will provide for our needs and fulfill His promises in our lives.
In summary, Deuteronomy 16:20 urges us to pursue justice and live righteously, leading to a blessed and abundant life. It reminds us of God’s provision and promises, encouraging us to trust in Him as we seek to follow His ways. As we study and reflect on this verse, let us be inspired to walk in God’s justice and righteousness, experiencing His abundant blessings in our lives.