“For you are a people holy to the LORD your God. The LORD your God has chosen you out of all the peoples on the face of the earth to be his people, his treasured possession.” (Deuteronomy 7:6, New International Version)
In Deuteronomy Chapter 7, we see Moses reminding Israel of their special status as God’s chosen people. At first glance, modern readers may perceive some passages in this chapter as challenging. God’s command to drive out or even destroy particular Canaanite nations (Deuteronomy 7:1-2) has sometimes provoked confusion or discomfort. Yet, when diligently read in its historical and theological context, these passages deepen our understanding of God’s holiness, the danger of idolatry, and the priority God places on protecting the covenant community.
From a historical standpoint, the Canaanite culture was deeply entrenched in pagan worship, with practices documented by archaeologists as involving child sacrifice, ritual prostitution, and widespread moral depravity. God’s intent was not arbitrary destruction, but protection of His covenant people and preservation of their identity. The depth and intensity of the threat demanded clear boundaries.
In verse 5, Israel is instructed to “break down their altars, smash their sacred stones…”(NIV). Archaeological findings in the region confirm the pervasive presence of altars and pillars used in idolatrous rituals by the ancient inhabitants of Canaan. These discoveries reinforce the biblical warnings: idolatry was pervasive, alluring, and potentially lethal to Israel’s spiritual vitality.
Idolatry for the modern believer may not look like literal stone idols, but it remains equally perilous. Today’s believer faces subtle forms of idolatry—comfort, wealth accumulation, social approval, or entertainment addiction. Just as Israel needed to tear down tangible idols, we must vigilantly examine our hearts to destroy spiritual idols that compete with devotion to Christ.
A suggested hymn for reflection: “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing” by Robert Robinson; its reflective melody and lyrics remind us to keep our hearts tuned to God’s grace and free of idolatries.
The theological anchor of Chapter 7 rests heavily in verses 7-9:
“The LORD did not set his affection on you and choose you because you were more numerous…but it was because the LORD loved you and kept the oath he swore to your ancestors.” (Deuteronomy 7:7-8, New International Version)
Here, the Hebrew word for “love” is “אַהֲבָה” (ahavah), denoting intimate and loyal affection. God’s relationship with Israel was rooted not in merit or numbers, but in committed covenant love—God’s “hesed” (steadfast love)—seen throughout the Old Testament narratives. This vital concept underlies the biblical theology of God’s unwavering loyalty despite human failure.
These verses encourage us, too, reminding us that God’s covenantal love remains unchanging and grounded in His faithfulness—not our achievement. Christian theologian John Calvin emphasized this when he wrote extensively on God’s sovereign, elective love: It is never conditional upon human greatness or goodness, but always rooted in God’s mercy and covenant promise.
Cross-reference and ponder Romans 5:8 (New International Version)—“But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” The covenant love displayed in Deuteronomy finds its climatic fulfillment in Christ, who embodies and completes God’s redemptive promises.
Chapter 7 closes by reassuring Israel of God’s absolute faithfulness to His promises and His commitment to blessing them when they obey (Deuteronomy 7:11-26). Throughout the narrative of Israel and even into the New Testament, God’s character remains consistent: obedience to God’s instructions brings blessings—not transactional reward—but because His commands lead naturally to flourishing.
Have you considered that divine “commandments” (Hebrew “mitzvot”) are not merely rules, but guidelines fostering abundant life? God’s “burden,” as Jesus says, is truly “light” (Matthew 11:30, New International Version). Obedience out of love leads to joy, harmony, and genuine well-being.
As you reflect today, consider your own calling and identity in Jesus Christ. Just as Israel was distinctively chosen, the apostle Peter reminds us similarly:
“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood… God’s special possession…” (1 Peter 2:9, New International Version)
As a modern disciple, reflect also on your relationship to surrounding culture. Have any modern idols subtly compromised your spiritual integrity? Like Israel, you must courageously confront these and re-affirm the centrality of God’s covenant love in your life.
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for choosing us, not because of our worthiness but because of Your steadfast love and grace. Guard our hearts against modern idols that seek our attention and affection. Teach us humility, that we might daily rely on Your strength. Help us fully embrace our identity as beloved, chosen children, set apart for Your glory. Remind us always to rest securely in Your unwavering faithfulness and covenant promises, beautifully sealed in Your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Narrated version of this devotional on Deuteronomy Chapter 7