As we delve into chapter 3 of Deuteronomy, Moses recounts the great victory given by God in defeating Og, the king of Bashan. Historically, Bashan was a rich and fruitful region, located east of the Sea of Galilee, notable for its fertile pasturelands, large cattle herds, and strong fortified cities. Its king, Og, is described dramatically, highlighting his massive iron bed (verse 11), symbolizing formidable strength and power. Archaeologists recognize ancient beds carved from basalt stone in this region, underscoring this detail’s historical authenticity.
This victory, however, was not due to Israel’s military might but solely through trusting God’s promise and power. Moses emphasizes clearly that it was the Lord God who delivered Og into their hands, reinforcing the theme of reliance on the Lord’s sovereignty as Israel advances towards the promise.
Indeed, the Psalmist later captures the spirit of these victories in poetry, writing:
“He struck down great nations and killed mighty kings—Sihon king of the Amorites and Og king of Bashan—and gave their land as an inheritance to His people Israel.” (Psalm 135:10-12, New International Version)
As Christians today, we must remember that our spiritual victory is never achieved by our own strength but “in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” (Romans 8:37, New International Version).
Consider today: what battles or challenges do you face? Take heart and trust God, knowing that victory is secured by His promise and power, not by our own limited strength.
Hymn Suggestion: “A Mighty Fortress is Our God” by Martin Luther, a song celebrating God as our fortress and strength against mighty foes.
Moses details the land allocations given east of the Jordan River to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh. Still, significantly, these tribes were commanded not to settle comfortably until their brothers had also received their inheritance and found rest on the west side of the Jordan River.
This principle of communal responsibility and unity is crucial yet often overlooked. God shows here the importance of solidarity among His people: Israel will find rest together, or they will not find it at all.
This communal responsibility is echoed in the New Testament community of believers, illustrated aptly in Galatians 6:2 (English Standard Version):
“Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.”
As modern readers, we live in societies marked by individualism. But here, we learn the biblical value of community and mutual care. Our well-being, spiritually and materially, is bound up with our commitment to one another. Pause today and reflect on how you might better serve your brothers and sisters in faith, ensuring that none are left behind or forgotten.
In the closing verses of chapter 3, Moses recounts a deeply personal exchange he had with God. He earnestly pleaded to be allowed to cross over and see the Promised Land. God’s answer was firm and gracious: Moses would not enter personally, yet God allowed him to view the land from Mount Pisgah (verse 27).
Even Moses, the faithful leader, had to accept God’s sovereignty and wisdom. God’s decision might seem harsh to modern readers, but historically interpreters across Christian traditions have thoughtfully emphasized the lesson: all—even leaders—must humbly accept divine limitations and trust fully in God’s good intentions.
The rich Hebrew term used in Moses’ plea (“אֶעְבְּרָה” transliterated “e’ebrah,” meaning “let me cross over”) expresses heartfelt yearning and emotional depth, highlighting Moses’ earnest desire for divine favor. Yet, like us, Moses learned that unanswered prayers might indeed be a divine gift rather than a disappointment—as God has a greater plan.
Moses’ obedient acceptance prefigured Christ’s ultimate surrender in Gethsemane—where Jesus accepted the Father’s will rather than His human desire (Matthew 26:39, New International Version). Submission to God’s wisdom remains a difficult yet essential mark of spiritual maturity. If your prayers seem unanswered today, trust the infinite wisdom and love of God who sees beyond our immediate desires into eternal purposes.
In Deuteronomy 3, we have journeyed from triumph in battle, intimacy in community, to humility before God’s sovereignty. Each of these aspects reminds us of the depth and richness of our journey with God.
Let us thoughtfully ask ourselves today:
- Whose strength am I relying on in the trials I face?
- Who around me needs my support and commitment as a brother or
sister in Christ?
- Am I willing to lay down my desires for God’s better, wiser
purpose as Moses did?
May we have the grace to internalize these truths deeply today.
Heavenly Father, you alone give victory to your people. Thank you for providing strength when ours fails. Teach us greater dependence on you and greater devotion to each other, as you commanded Israel thousands of years ago. Give us hearts to trust your wisdom when our prayers seem unanswered. Lord, grant us the grace to see your benevolent hand even in difficult circumstances. In Christ’s precious name we pray. Amen.
Narrated version of this devotional on Deuteronomy Chapter 3