Daily Devotional | The Song of Moses

Children learn many things through songs, from the alphabet to their colors. When the time comes to pick up the toys in our church nursery, this tune can be heard: “Clean up, clean up, everybody do their share. Clean up, clean up, everybody everywhere.”

Even for us as adults, songs can help us learn and remember. Through the song of Moses, God wanted the Israelites to remember the necessity of covenant obedience. The header in your Bible might match today’s devotional title, but we could also call this “The Song of God.” Moses didn’t compose this song. God told him that after he died the nation would again rebel and pursue idolatry (Deut. 31:16–18). Moses was to write down this song as a witness for the Lord against them (Deut. 31:19–22). They should consider themselves warned!

The song narrates the relationship between God and Israel. While God is the perfect and faithful Rock (Deut. 32:1–4), His people had often been fickle (vv. 5–6). The Lord had chosen Israel (vv. 7–14); they were the beloved apple of His eye. He’d cared and provided for them. Yet they’d rejected their gracious God in favor of idols (vv. 15 18). As a result, they would experience His righteous wrath (vv. 19–35; see Rom. 10:19). God, however, would eventually relent and take vengeance on Israel’s enemies (vv. 36–43). These last two sections look far ahead to the conquest, exile, and return. One day, God Himself would pay the price and make atonement for their sins (v. 43)!

Moses also exhorted the people: “Take to heart all the words I have solemnly declared to you this day, so that you may command your children to obey carefully all the words of this law. They are not just idle words for you—they are your life” (vv. 46–47).

>> Songs can help you remember God’s promises and commands. Listen to a few of these songs today. Ask Him to use those songs to help you remember His words for you.