“For the LORD thy God hath blessed thee in all the works of thy hand: he knoweth thy walking through this great wilderness: these forty years the LORD thy God hath been with thee; thou hast lacked nothing.”
Historical Context:The book of Deuteronomy is part of the Pentateuch, the first five books of the Old Testament, traditionally believed to be written by Moses. It recounts the events of the Israelites’ journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. In Deuteronomy, Moses addresses the new generation of Israelites, reminding them of God’s covenant and instructing them before they enter the land.
God’s Blessings:In Deuteronomy 2:7, Moses emphasises that the Lord has blessed the Israelites in all the works of their hands. Despite their time in the wilderness, they lacked nothing because God was with them. This verse highlights God’s provision and care for His people. It reminds them that all they have, including their successes and blessings, ultimately come from God. It is a reminder that God is the source of their sustenance, prosperity, and overall well-being.
Awareness of God’s Presence:Moses assures the Israelites that God knows their every step through the wilderness. This statement signifies that God is intimately acquainted with His people’s lives. He is aware of their struggles, challenges, and journeys. The wilderness experience was a testing and refining period for the Israelites, where they had to rely solely on God. In the same way, God is aware of our own journeys and is present with us in our trials and tribulations.
God’s Faithfulness:The verse mentions that for forty years, the Lord had been with the Israelites. It is a testament to God’s faithfulness to His promises and His people. Despite their disobedience and grumbling, God remained with them, guiding and providing for their needs. This highlights the enduring nature of God’s faithfulness, even in the face of human frailty and shortcomings.
Application:As we reflect on Deuteronomy 2:7, there are several lessons we can draw from it for our lives today. Firstly, we should recognise that all our blessings and successes come from God. It encourages us to develop an attitude of gratitude, acknowledging God as the source of our provisions and accomplishments. Secondly, we can find comfort in knowing that God is aware of our circumstances. He is not distant or detached from our lives but rather intimately involved in every aspect. Lastly, the verse reminds us of God’s unwavering faithfulness. It encourages us to trust in Him, even in challenging times, knowing that He will never abandon us.
