Deuteronomy 31 recounts the momentous events that took place as Moses, the great leader of Israel, approached the end of his life. He declared to the people that he was no longer able to continue leading them and that Joshua would be their new leader. Moses assured them that God would go before them, just as He had done throughout their journey in the wilderness. Moses urged the people to be strong and courageous, emphasizing that God would never forsake them.
Moses then wrote down the law and commanded that it be read publicly every seven years during the Feast of Tabernacles. He instructed the Levites to take custody of the Book of the Law, which was to be kept as a witness against the Israelites in the future.
God spoke directly to Moses and Joshua, confirming that Joshua would lead the people into the Promised Land. God foretold that the Israelites would turn away from Him and face severe consequences, but He would never abandon them completely.
Moses summoned all the leaders of Israel and reminded them of God’s faithfulness. He then wrote a song as a testimony against the people, instructing them to teach it to future generations. Finally, Moses blessed Joshua and encouraged him, along with the entire nation, to be strong and confident in the Lord.
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