When You Come into the Land

      Perhaps what is most significant is the order of priorities—the first task the people of Israel were to perform was the building of an altar to the L‑rd (27:5-8). We could well say that it would make more sense to prepare for battle with the Canaanite nations, because that was coming. But, the L‑rd wanted Israel to remember that the most important responsibility it had was to maintain its relationship with the L‑rd, not battling the enemy.

      That is a crucial lesson for us to learn. When we feel besieged by the enemy and his hosts, our attention turns to him. Our problem is that when we engage in spiritual battles, we become consumed with them. It is crucial for us to remember that if we keep our attention riveted on the L‑rd, everything else, including our spiritual [and emotional] battles will fall into place. Moses challenges (in 29:1-8) the people of Israel to search their memory banks. Now, facing the Jordan River, they are waiting nervously for their combat with the big, bad giants of Canaan. They are probably wondering whether they have what it takes to lick the giants.

      Moses' challenge to them is this: "Remember Who is on your side. Remember the miracles that the L‑rd performed for you—how He kept you going with special food and with water; how He enabled you to lick the Moabite Kings, Sihon and Og. He will do what is necessary to help you overcome the Canaanite giants. The key for you is this: "Make sure that you stay on the straight and narrow—don't deviate from the L‑rd's instructions and you'll do fine," [Urbach paraphrase]. 

            We all face crises from time to time. If we learn to hold tightly to our Father's hand and not stray from Him, He'll help us through these crises. Our challenge: "Where is our focus, on the giants, or, on the L‑rd?"