Moses is referred to here as a “man of God.” How do you hope to be remembered some day–as a man or woman of God? I certainly do. God has used Moses in some amazing ways as we look back on his life and teaching. What a prophet! A prophet who had Facetime with God! That certainly doesn’t happen every day. But we can be still and listen for God’s voice.
I was talking with another business coach the other day, and we were comparing notes about how God is moving in our lives. She lamented about how she had really struggled lately not knowing which direction she should go with her business. She wondered where God was. So she asked him. His answer back was, “you haven’t been listening.” Is that us? Are we too busy to listen for God’s voice?
As Moses brings this book to a close as his life is coming to an end, we see him calling out each of the twelve tribes of Israel. These tribes are the people God rescued from Egypt. Their inheritance was promised to their ancestors. It was “go-time now. Did any of Moses’ words surprise you? What comes to mind for you as you read through these blessings?
If you counted them, there were only 11 tribes accounted for. I have no answer for why Simeon was omitted. But as David points out, Joseph’s two sons, Manasseh and Ephraim, are often referred to as having their own tribes. There is a story in Genesis 49 where Jacob proclaims Simeon’s descendants would be scattered.
There are some beautiful word pictures in these promises. While not from the tribe of Levi, being a pastor’s family does bring with it many challenges. This part of Moses’ blessing to Levi really spoke to my heart. “Bless the ministry of the Levites, O Lord, and accept all the work of their hands. Hit their enemies where it hurts the most; strike down their foes so they never rise again.” I’m not so sure I’d go so far as to want to strike down my foes for good, but there were times in ministry when the uphill battle against people nearly broke us.
It was also interesting that some of the brothers (tribes) got a small mention and others a much bigger blessing. I don’t know the whys and wherefore here, but I do know God knows exactly what we need when we need it. I’ve been doing a lot of work on my own mindset to try and push away the negative thoughts that can cripple us when we put God’s power in a box or otherwise limit his blessings.
How ready are you to receive your blessing from God? Where are your stumbling blocks that keep you from trusting? Ask God to help you knock them down.
Let’s pray…Lord, forgive me for when I compare myself to others. You have given me exactly what I need to do your will. Give me clarity and assurance that I am in the right place. Guide my steps, guard my tongue, refresh me and make me new. Watch out for my loved ones, keeping them safe. Bring encouragers alongside them to help them see you more clearly. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
