What lessons about obedience can we learn from Israel's conquest in Deuteronomy 3:4? Reading the Verse “ At that time we captured all sixty of his cities—there was no city that we did not take from them—the whole region of Argob, the kingdom of Og in Bashan.” (Deuteronomy 3:4) Why This Moment Matters Israel had just faced two giant‐led kingdoms, Sihon and Og (Numbers 21:21-35). Deuteronomy 3:4 records the outcome against Og: total conquest. Behind that military headline stands a spiritual storyline of obedience—Israel acted exactly as God directed (Deuteronomy 2:31-33; 3:2-3). Lessons on Obedience • Trust in God’s Word brings complete victory – God promised, “I have delivered him into your hands” (Deuteronomy 3:2). Israel’s obedience let them experience the promise exactly as spoken—“all sixty cities.” – See Joshua 21:45: “Not one of all the LORD’s good promises to Israel failed; every one was fulfilled.” • Obedience tackles the impossible – Forty years earlier the people feared fortified cities (Numbers 13:28-29). Now, through obedience, those very walls fall. – Compare Jericho’s walls in Joshua 6: the pattern repeats—when God leads, obstacles crumble. • Partial obedience is not obedience – The verse notes “there was no city that we did not take.” Incomplete surrender to God’s command would have left enemy strongholds. – Saul’s failure with Amalek (1 Samuel 15:2-23) shows the danger of selective obedience. • Collective obedience unites the community – “We captured…” underscores shared commitment. Obedience isn’t merely personal; it binds God’s people together in purpose (Philippians 1:27). • Obedience today safeguards tomorrow – Conquering Bashan secured land east of the Jordan for future generations (Numbers 32:33). Our present obedience often opens doors for those who follow us (2 Timothy 1:5). Walking It Out Today • Hold to every part of God’s revealed will, not just the convenient parts. • Face intimidating “walled cities” (addictions, anxieties, cultural pressures) with confidence that God’s directives are stronger than any fortress. • Encourage corporate obedience—families, churches, small groups—knowing shared faithfulness multiplies impact. • Remember that today’s obedience is kingdom groundwork for children and new believers who will walk where we have cleared the way. |
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