This first chapter of Deuteronomy is a short summary of the Israelites journey and their relationship with God. The chapter, like the previous book, Numbers, is marked with the joys they experienced when they trusted God and the troubles they went through when they did not trust God. In the middle of all these highs and lows of life is a nugget that describes God’s love for us. I am adapting and sharing this verse about God’s relationship with you and His care for you below. Read it – and when you come across the word “you” or “your” insert your name and read it with your name.
The Lord your God is going ahead of you. He will fight for you, just as you saw Him do all your life. And you saw how the Lord your God cared for you along the way as you traveled through the wilderness, just as a father cares for his child. Now He has brought you here.
Whenever we look back, as God’s children, we will always be able to recognize the times God rescued us, protected us, and rebuilt our lives. If you are going through a difficult time in this season of life, remember this truth from His word: The Lord was with you. The Lord is with you. The Lord is carrying you tenderly and lovingly as a loving father carries his child.
