Focal Passage: Deuteronomy 4:1-9, 15-20
The word remember can apply to the past, present, and future. We say, “Remember when we went on that trip?” “I don’t remember where I put my keys,” or “Remember to clean your room before Mom gets home.” Remembering touches every part of life.
Teachers know students forget quickly. That’s why repetition, reminders, and review are essential. God, the Master Teacher, uses the same approach with His people. In Deuteronomy 4, Moses calls Israel to remember God’s covenant. Forgetfulness is the enemy of faith. Israel’s greatest danger was not outside enemies but inward drift — the same danger we face when we forget God’s goodness.
Sinquefield
In vv. 1-4, there is a call to remember God’s Word. Moses urges Israel to listen and obey, because God’s Word brings life and blessing. Obedience isn’t optional — it is the key to wisdom. Jesus affirms this in Matthew 7:24-27, comparing those who obey His words to wise builders who build on solid ground. Just as Israel needed obedience to possess the land, we need obedience to walk in God’s blessing.
Not only are they challenged to remember God’s Word, but to also remember God’s Ways. Israel’s obedience was meant to impact others. If they kept God’s commands, surrounding nations would recognize His greatness (v. 6). God’s ways glorify Him as His people live faithfully. This section ends with a clear challenge: “Make them known to your children and your children’s children” (v. 9). Faith must be passed down. We hand down recipes, stories, and traditions — but how much more important to pass down the truth of God’s Word? Psalm 78:4-7 reminds us to tell the next generation so that they too will set their hope in Him.
The final section reminds us to remember God’s Warning (vv. 15-20). Moses warns them not to worship idols or images (vv. 15-20). God is jealous for His glory (Exodus 34:14) and will not share it with another.
Instead, Israel must remember God redeemed them from Egypt to be His treasured possession. Forgetting God always leads to false worship. Each generation faces the temptation to exchange the glory of God for created things (Romans 1:22–23). Idolatry may not be carved statues today, but it shows up in success, possessions, relationships, or anything elevated above God. That’s why remembering is vital. Remembering keeps our worship true and our hearts anchored in God.
Moses’ message is timeless: Remember God’s Word. Remember His Ways. Remember His Warning. Forgetfulness leads to drifting, but remembering anchors us in obedience, worship, and hope. Just as God redeemed Israel from Egypt, He has redeemed us in Christ. Remembering His redemption keeps us faithful in the present and hopeful for the future. B&R
