This chapter mainly contains a song God commanded Moses to teach the people.
“The Rock, his work is perfect, for all his ways are justice. A God of faithfulness and without iniquity, just and upright is he. They have dealt corruptly with him; they are no longer his children because they are blemished; they are a crooked and twisted generation. Do you thus repay the Lord, you foolish and senseless people? Is not he your father, who created you, who made you and established you? Remember the days of old; consider the years of many generations; ask your father, and he will show you, your elders, and they will tell you. When the Most High gave to the nations their inheritance, when he divided mankind, he fixed the borders[a] of the peoples according to the number of the sons of God. But the Lord’s portion is his people, Jacob his allotted heritage.” (v4-9)
In summary, the song tells the history of Israel from the initial salvation of Jacob (later renamed Israel) up to the inheritance of Canaan. It tells of God’s lavish provision, the people’s rebellion, consequences, and God’s forgiveness. It paints a clear picture for all to see and know.
The chapter also states the purpose of the song: “[Moses] said to them, ‘Take to heart all the words by which I am warning you today, that you may command them to your children, that they may be careful to do all the words of this law. For it is no empty word for you, but your very life, and by this word you shall live long in the land that you are going over the Jordan to possess.’ ” (v46-47) The purpose of learning the song and teaching it to their children is to remember God and His laws.
If Israel has the book of the law, why do they need a song as well? Possibly because we are a forgetful people, and we need mnemonic devices (memory / learning techniques) to help us retain important information. How else are we supposed to remember the mathematical order of operations without BEDMAS, or learn our ABCs without a familiar tune? God gives Israel this song to help them remember Him, who they were, and who they are now.
My challenge for today is to use mnemonic devices to help us remember God throughout our day. Perhaps we can set a chime on our electronic device, or maybe put a post-it note on the washroom mirror, or maybe have music playing, so every time we see/hear this reminder we think of Him. Let’s be creative – not every form of reminder works for every person. Learn what helps you to remember something, and use it as an aid to keep God in the forefront of your mind. You can even change it up weekly, so the reminder doesn’t become background noise/wallpaper. The point is, when Israel forgot the Lord their God, they fell back into their old ways (those of Egypt and false gods). Let’s be wise and build safeguards into our lives to help minimize complacency and forgetfulness.
Father God, our Lord and King we worship and adore You. You have glorified Yourself through our rescue and redemption. You have brought us out of slavery, and we ask for Your help to keep us from returning to the old ways. Father please help us to guard our hearts and minds against forgetfulness, keeping us attentive to Your heart and will. Please teach us to remain steadfast on our Rock, and cling to Your loving presence. In the name of Christ Jesus our King, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training