Deuteronomy 10:21
He is thy praise, and he is thy God, that hath done for thee these great and terrible things, which thine eyes have seen.
Deuteronomy 10:21 (KJV)
Context
Moses speaks these words to Israel as he recalls their wilderness journey. He reminds the people of what they have seen with their own eyes, not distant stories. The verse sits within a larger speech where Moses urges Israel to fear the Lord, walk in His ways, and serve Him with whole hearts.
Meaning
The phrase “He is thy praise” means that God Himself is the reason and object of worship. He is not merely one among many worthy of honor; He alone deserves it. The words “He is thy God” declare a personal covenant bond. This is not a distant deity but the God who chose Israel and remains faithful to them.
The “great and terrible things” are the mighty acts of deliverance and judgment that Israel witnessed. These include the plagues in Egypt, the parting of the Red Sea, and the provision of manna in the wilderness. The word “terrible” here means awe-inspiring and fearsome, not evil. It points to the overwhelming power of God that stirs reverent wonder. The Latin Vulgate renders this phrase as “magnalia et terribilia,” emphasizing the magnificent and fearsome nature of God’s works.
Biblical connections
This verse echoes the pattern of praise found throughout the Old Testament, where God’s past faithfulness becomes the foundation for present trust. The same God who acted for Israel is revealed fully in Jesus Christ, who calls believers into a personal relationship through Him.
Application
Believers today are called to make God the center of their praise, not merely to thank Him for blessings but to honor Him for who He is. The verse also invites personal testimony. Just as Israel could say “which thine eyes have seen,” each believer can recall specific ways God has worked in their own life. These deeds are not just history; they are personal experiences that shape worship.
Remember God’s mighty acts in your life and speak of them.
Let past faithfulness strengthen your trust for present needs.
Give praise to God alone, for He alone is worthy.
Reflection
God’s deeds are not only historical records; they are personal experiences that shape worship. When we recognize that He is our praise and our God, our lives become a response to His greatness. This verse calls us to look back with gratitude and forward with confidence, because the God who acted for Israel is the same God who acts for us.
