“Therefore shall ye lay up these my words in your heart and in your soul, and bind them for a sign upon your hand, that they may be as frontlets between your eyes.”
This verse is part of Moses’ final address to the Israelites before they entered the Promised Land.
In this section of the book of Deuteronomy, Moses reiterates the importance of obeying God’s commandments and keeping His statutes.
Laying up God’s words in your heart and soul:The verse begins by emphasizing the importance of internalising God’s words. It’s not enough to simply hear or read the words of God; they should be treasured in our hearts and deeply rooted in our souls. This implies a personal and intimate relationship with God, where His words become an integral part of our being.
Binding God’s words as a sign upon your hand:The reference to binding God’s words upon the hand suggests the idea of taking action. It signifies that God’s commandments should guide our actions and behaviour. It reminds us that our hands should be used to carry out His will and live in accordance with His teachings. This symbolises the practical application of God’s Word in our daily lives.
Frontlets between your eyes:The frontlets were small boxes containing Scripture verses worn on the forehead. This practice was known as phylacteries, and it originated from the commandment in Deuteronomy 6:8 to “bind [God’s commandments] for a sign upon thine hand” and “they shall be as frontlets between thine eyes.” The purpose of wearing frontlets was to serve as a visible reminder of God’s commandments and to keep His words constantly before their eyes.
In summary, Deuteronomy 11:18 urges the Israelites (and by extension, believers today) to internalise God’s words, let them guide their actions, and keep them ever before their eyes. This verse emphasises the importance of a deep personal relationship with God and the practical application of His commandments in our lives. It’s important to note that while this verse was specifically addressed to the Israelites, the principles contained within it can still be applied to believers today. The Bible, as a whole, provides guidance, wisdom, and instruction for all who seek to follow God’s ways.
