Tuesday 11 August 2009
- Bible Book:
- Deuteronomy
"Be strong and bold; have no fear or dread of them, because it is the LORD your God who goes with you; he will not fail you or forsake you." (v.6)
Background
In this passage, Moses publicly designates Joshua as hissuccessor and confers upon him a precise mission. He is called tolead the people of Israel into the Promised Land.
This change will not be an easy one, particularly because Moses hasled the Israelites for such a long time and through so much. ButMoses has confidence in Joshua, and in verses 7 and 8 the newleader is heartily encouraged and assured of God's help. It is aparallel to Moses' words to all of Israel.
But why couldn't Moses be the leader any more?
Moses is unable to lead the Israelites into Canaan - not because ofany physical disability - but because of his sin. Earlier in hiswork for God he chose to act in his own name instead of in God'sname (Numbers20:1-13).
Moses, therefore, misused the power which God had given to him, andnow here in Deuteronomy 31:1-8, is facing the consequences of hisactions.
To Ponder
Do you believe that you have a specific missionto fulfil for God on this earth? If your answer is 'yes', do youknow what your mission is?
How do you think that you can discover yourmission if you don't yet know what it is?
How can Christians help each other not to abusethe power that is invested in them?
Does institutionalism in the Christian Church gohand in hand with the abuse of power?