“Blessed shalt thou be when thou comest in, and blessed shalt thou be when thou goest out.”
Context:Deuteronomy is the fifth book of the Bible and part of the Torah, which contains the laws and instructions given by God to the Israelites through Moses. In this chapter, Moses addresses the people of Israel, reminding them of the blessings they will receive if they obey God’s commandments.
The Blessing of Arrival:The verse begins by saying, “Blessed shalt thou be when thou comest in.” This phrase refers to the Israelites’ arrival into their promised land, Canaan. It emphasises that when they enter the land that God had prepared for them, they will experience His blessings. This suggests that God’s favour will be upon them as they settle in the land.
The Blessing of Departure:The second part of the verse states, “and blessed shalt thou be when thou goest out.” This refers to the Israelites’ journeys and ventures outside their homes. It indicates that God’s blessings will continue to accompany them as they leave their dwellings and engage in various activities, such as trade, warfare, or exploration.
God’s Comprehensive Blessing:This verse portrays God’s desire to bless His people in every aspect of their lives. It encompasses both their coming in and going out, representing the entirety of their experiences. It signifies that God’s favour and blessings are not limited to specific situations but extend to every area of their lives.
Spiritual Application:While this verse was specifically addressed to the Israelites, we can draw a spiritual application for believers today. As Christians, we are called to walk in obedience to God’s commandments and follow His will. When we align our lives with God’s Word, we can experience His blessings in various dimensions.
- The Promised Land:The promised land of Canaan, which symbolises God’s blessings for the Israelites, can be seen as a metaphor for the abundant life in Christ that believers can experience. When we enter into a personal relationship with Jesus, we become partakers of His promises and blessings. We are blessed as we enter into the realm of God’s kingdom and receive salvation through Christ.
- Journeying with God:The blessing of going out suggests that as believers, we are not confined to a limited spiritual experience. We are called to venture out into the world, carrying the message of the Gospel and impacting the lives of others. Whether it’s in our workplaces, communities, or any other sphere of influence, God’s blessings go with us as we fulfil our purpose and mission.
- Trust and Obedience:To receive God’s blessings, both in our coming in and going out, it is crucial to trust and obey Him. The preceding verses in Deuteronomy 28 describe the blessings that come from obeying God’s commandments and the curses resulting from disobedience. Trusting in God’s guidance and following His ways leads to a life marked by His favour and blessings.
In conclusion, Deuteronomy 28:6 highlights God’s desire to bless His people in every aspect of their lives. It reminds us of the comprehensive nature of God’s blessings and encourages us to trust and obey Him in our journey. As believers, we can find application in our relationship with Jesus, as we enter into the promised land of abundant life and embark on a purposeful journey with God.
