Deuteronomy 33
-Moses, described as “the man of God,” is now in a position
near physical death where he pronounces his final blessing upon the sons of
Israel and His Almighty God who has been ever faithful in bringing him and his
people to the verge of the Promised Land. The great prophet, speaking much like
the patriarchs of previous generations, reiterated the fact that the LORD
indeed loved His people as they, the holy ones, followed in His steps receiving
His words. They were charged with a Law; it was the “possession for the
assembly of Jacob.” They were together as a free people about to enter their
inheritance, as God’s chosen and adored, each by their tribe (Deuteronomy 33:1-5).
Ruben is blessed that he will live and not die with multiplicity of descendants
(Deuteronomy 33:6). Judah has contended for his people and has been brought to them.
God would help him against all of his enemies (Deuteronomy 33:7). The Godly men
of Levi received the word of God through means like the Urim and Thummin. They contended
for the LORD at places like Massah and Meribah. They were to be teachers of the
laws and ordinances of the LORD in their nation burning the incense and making
sacrifices on the altar before God. Their substance was blessed by the fellow Levite,
Moses, as he beckons God to favor the work of their hands and shatter the ones
that rise up against them in hate (Deuteronomy 33:8-11). Benjamin was beloved
of the LORD and would dwell securely by Him, “between His shoulders (a place of
affection and protection),” who shields all the day (Deuteronomy 33:12). Joseph
was blessed on multiple levels. His land and the choicest things of the land
were mentioned over him. Even things under the land in springs of water and all
the animals of his territory were blessed. Joseph was one distinguished among
his brothers; majesty was his with double portion, and his tribes would be conquerors
to the ends of the earth (Deuteronomy 33:13-17). Zebulun should rejoice in his
going forth and Issachar would be able to have joy in his tents. They will call
people to worship the LORD on the mountain where they will offer righteous
sacrifices. They will be sea faring people who draw out the abundance of the
seas and hidden treasures of the sand (Deuteronomy 33:18-19). Gad will be
enlarged with blessing as “he lies down as a lion” and “tears the arm, also the
crown of the head.” The first part will be for himself, and he would execute “the
justice of the LORD and His ordinances with Israel (Deuteronomy 33:20-21).” Dan
is a lion’s whelp (cub, offspring) that leaps forth from the northern country
of Bashan, which was northeast of the Sea of Galilee in what is today the Golan
Heights (Deuteronomy 33:22). Naphtali, who was satisfied with favor and full of
blessing, was to take possession of the sea and the south (Deuteronomy 33:23).
Asher had pronounced favor by all of his brothers and would have dipped feet in
oil (enjoying prosperity) with locks of iron and bronze (a protective barrier blessing
for fortification along the highway where invaders would likely attempt to
invade the Holy Land) in a leisurely walk (Deuteronomy 33:24-25). The final
phase of the blessing glorified the Great God of Heaven and earth. There was
none like Him. He helps His people. He is eternal and is a dwelling place for
the righteous. Israel is safe in His everlasting Arms. He drives out the enemy
before them and destroys the opposition. Therefore, Israel will dwell securely
in a land of grain and new wine with moisture to provide abundance. Israel as a
whole is blessed because they have been saved by the LORD. God is the shield of
their help and the sword of their majesty frightening their enemies as they
tread on the high places in victory (Deuteronomy 33:26-29).
-*Application* These blessings were more than empty wishes
and once uttered carried the promise of fulfillment (from Deuteronomy: An
Introduction & Commentary, J.A. Thompson, Inter-varsity Press: Leicester,
England & Downers Grove, Illinois, 1974, pg. 306). Our words also carry
much meaning. Are you speaking blessing with your mouth, or are you cursing and
condemning people? In the final analysis, speak life, not death (see https://www.bing.com/search?q=speak+life+video&form=EDGHPC&qs=AS&cvid=109655b7dabf4ab199c3696cad722ebb&pq=speak%20life%20vid).
Verse to Memorize:
Deuteronomy 33:27
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