Contemplative Bible Reading

Some thoughts about Bible verses

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I Wish that They were Wise

January 9th, 2011 · No Comments

Deuteronomy 32:28-29 (New English Translation)

28 They are a nation devoid of wisdom,

and there is no understanding among them.

29 I wish that they were wise and could understand this,

and that they could comprehend what will happen to them.”

God’s people are about to enter the Promised Land. Moses will not enter with them. Instead, Joshua will lead. In his final address to the people, Moses sings a song. The verses above are a part of this song.

Moses merely wishes that the people were wise. He wishes that they would understand the difference between right and wrong and the consequences of their actions.

I guess the more things change, the more people stay the same. I can’t think of a time in man’s history where we didn’t stray out into areas where wisdom did not lead. The results were predictable. If you walk out into the street without looking both ways, you may be run over by an ox cart or an SUV. Somehow we still can’t understand this.

When we disregard God’s advice to love one another, and to be kind, gentle, forgiving, and on and on, we only hurt ourselves. It is as if we are trying to kick through a brick wall barefoot. It isn’t wise.

God, grant me wisdom this and every day.

Tags: Deuteronomy · Old Testament

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