Deuteronomy 28 begins with beautiful promises—blessings overflowing from obedience. God assures Israel of abundant prosperity in every aspect of life: fields fruitful, families flourishing, victory in battles, and honor among nations. Notice the poetic language employed, the repetition of the word “blessed” (Hebrew: בָּרוּךְ barukh), which emphasizes the comprehensive nature of divine favor. Yet, these remarkable blessings have conditions: obedience, careful observance, and wholehearted devotion to God’s commands.
This principle echoes throughout Scripture. Jesus later summarized the heart of obedience with simplicity: “If you love me, keep my commands” (John 14:15, New International Version). Historically, Christian theologians like John Calvin and Matthew Henry saw these Old Testament blessings primarily as representing spiritual wellness and the joy of a close covenant relationship with the Creator.
Culturally, these blessings would have been vividly tangible to an agricultural ancient Near Eastern society. Healthy livestock, fertile lands, and national prominence would indicate divine approval in an undeniable way. Archaeological discoveries from the ancient Near East, such as agricultural artifacts, ancient granaries, and inscriptions about victory in warfare, underscore how central and practically meaningful these promises were to Israel.
Yet, as believers today, we balance this Old Covenant promise with New Testament revelation, recognizing that material blessings are subordinate to the greater spiritual blessings found in Christ: forgiveness, freedom from sin’s mastery, and eternal relationship with God (Ephesians 1:3).
Suggested Cross References: Psalm 1; Matthew 6:33; John 14:15; Ephesians 1:3-14.
Suddenly, the tone shifts dramatically in verse 15. From abundance, the passage descends to stark warnings. What follows is one of the most sobering sections in all of Scripture, systematically outlining devastating consequences for disregarding God’s commands.
The curses described bear a startling resemblance—all exact opposites—to the previously mentioned blessings. The fields wither, the heavens become brass—impenetrable to prayers—the enemy conquers, and the nation falls into humiliation and ruin. It is instructive to note verse 20: “The Lord will send on you curses, confusion and rebuke in everything you put your hand to…” (New International Version). The Hebrew term for confusion, מְהוּמָה (mehumah), indicates panic, turmoil, and helplessness—a vivid portrayal of a society collapsing from within.
These verses have often troubled modern readers who struggle with the severity depicted. Yet historically, scholars have seen these severe warnings as evidence of how earnestly God desired Israel’s thriving and holiness. The strength of these warnings indicates the seriousness with which God regards the covenant, and Israel’s special responsibility as God’s chosen and set-apart people. The medieval theologian Thomas Aquinas noted that God’s warnings were always rooted in love, aiming at repentance, healing, and restoration, rather than mere punitive cruelty.
Contextually, ancient Near Eastern covenants typically incorporated a “blessing-and-curse” formula like we see here, commonly called a “Suzerainty Treaty” format. Modern archaeological discoveries, such as Hittite and Assyrian treaty documents, have shed historical light on this passage. Israel would recognize this formal covenantal language vividly, knowing full well the severity and deep truth embedded in it.
Suggested Cross References: Hebrews 12:5-11; Revelation 3:19; Psalm 103:8-18; Luke 13:34.
What then, is our response to Deuteronomy 28 today? The chapter doesn’t merely offer ancient conditions, but a timeless principle: a heart that trusts in God flourishes spiritually, while one that rebels—not because God cruelly punishes, but because rebellion naturally leads us toward ruin—experiences spiritual decay and broken fellowship.
As Christians, we stand in the New Covenant established by Christ’s sacrifice, forgiven and freed, gifted with the indwelling Holy Spirit. Does this remove responsibility? Absolutely not! Rather, it magnifies it. Our covenant loyalty is rooted deeply in our gratitude for grace already given, rather than the fearful pursuit of blessing or avoidance of curse.
To love God and follow His commandments sincerely is still foundational for spiritual wellness. Material blessings may come or not—this is less important than the enduring blessing of God’s love, presence, and sustaining grace. Remember Paul’s testimony of endurance amidst trial: God’s grace was always sufficient (2 Corinthians 12:9).
A hymn worth reflecting upon here is “Trust and Obfligations” by Frances Ridley Havergal, expressing our joyful loyalty (“Trust and obey, for there’s no other way / to be happy in Jesus…”).
Gracious Father, You have called us into covenant relationship through Your son Jesus Christ. Teach our hearts to trust You fully, not for the sake of temporary earthly blessings, but for the joy of walking closely with You. Bring to our memory Your grace when we stray, and lead us ever closer into faithful obedience from a heart filled with genuine love. In Christ’s name, Amen.
Narrated version of this devotional on Deuteronomy Chapter 28