Deuteronomy 9:26

And I prayed to the LORD and said, "O Lord GOD, do not destroy Your people, Your inheritance, whom You redeemed through Your greatness and brought out of Egypt with a mighty hand.

Study Bible

I prayed to the LORD
This phrase highlights the act of intercession by Moses, a central figure in the Old Testament. The Hebrew root for "prayed" is "פָּלַל" (palal), which means to intercede or mediate. Moses stands as a mediator between God and the Israelites, reflecting the role of Christ as the ultimate mediator in the New Testament. This act of prayer underscores the importance of intercession in the life of a believer, emphasizing that prayer is a powerful tool for seeking God's mercy and intervention.

and said, 'O Lord GOD
The use of "O Lord GOD" in Hebrew is "אֲדֹנָי יְהוִה" (Adonai Yahweh), a combination that denotes both the sovereignty and the covenantal faithfulness of God. "Adonai" signifies God's lordship and authority, while "Yahweh" is His personal, covenant name, reminding the Israelites of His promises and faithfulness. This duality in addressing God reflects a deep reverence and acknowledgment of His power and His intimate relationship with His people.

do not destroy Your people
The plea "do not destroy" is a direct appeal to God's mercy and compassion. The Hebrew word for "destroy" is "שָׁחַת" (shachat), which means to ruin or annihilate. Moses is reminding God of His covenant with Israel, emphasizing that they are "Your people." This phrase underscores the concept of divine ownership and the special relationship between God and Israel, which is based on His promises to the patriarchs.

Your inheritance
The term "inheritance" in Hebrew is "נַחֲלָה" (nachalah), which refers to a possession or heritage. Israel is described as God's inheritance, highlighting their unique status as His chosen people. This concept is deeply rooted in the Abrahamic covenant, where God promised to make Abraham's descendants a great nation. It also points to the New Testament understanding of believers as God's inheritance, chosen and set apart for His purposes.

whom You redeemed
The word "redeemed" comes from the Hebrew "גָּאַל" (ga'al), meaning to buy back or rescue. This term is rich with theological significance, as it points to God's deliverance of Israel from slavery in Egypt. Redemption is a central theme in both the Old and New Testaments, foreshadowing the ultimate redemption through Christ's sacrifice. It speaks to God's power to save and His willingness to intervene on behalf of His people.

through Your greatness
The phrase "through Your greatness" emphasizes God's mighty power and majesty. The Hebrew word for "greatness" is "גָּדֹל" (gadol), which conveys the idea of magnitude and excellence. This acknowledges that it was not by Israel's strength but by God's unparalleled power that they were delivered. It serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and His ability to accomplish His purposes despite human weakness.

and brought out of Egypt
The act of bringing Israel "out of Egypt" is a pivotal event in the history of God's people, symbolizing liberation and new beginnings. Egypt, in this context, represents bondage and oppression. The Exodus is a foundational narrative that demonstrates God's faithfulness and His commitment to fulfilling His promises. It serves as a powerful metaphor for spiritual deliverance and the journey from sin to salvation.

with a mighty hand
The phrase "with a mighty hand" is a common biblical expression denoting God's powerful intervention. The Hebrew word for "mighty" is "חָזָק" (chazaq), which means strong or firm. This imagery conveys the idea of God's irresistible force and His ability to overcome any obstacle. It reassures believers of God's omnipotence and His capacity to protect and deliver His people from any adversary.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Moses
The leader of the Israelites who intercedes on behalf of the people, demonstrating his role as a mediator between God and Israel.

2. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who is appealed to by Moses for mercy and remembrance of His promises.

3. The Israelites
Referred to as God's people and inheritance, whom He redeemed from Egypt, highlighting their special status and relationship with God.

4. Egypt
The place of bondage from which the Israelites were delivered, symbolizing God's power and faithfulness in redemption.

5. The Wilderness
The setting of the Israelites' journey and testing, where Moses intercedes for them after their rebellion.

Teaching Points

The Power of Intercession
Moses' prayer demonstrates the importance and power of intercessory prayer. Believers are encouraged to pray for others, standing in the gap as Moses did.

God's Faithfulness to His Promises
Moses appeals to God's past actions and promises, reminding us that God is faithful and His past faithfulness is a foundation for our trust in Him today.

The Importance of Remembrance
Moses reminds God of His actions in Egypt, teaching us the importance of remembering and recounting God's past deeds in our lives as a source of encouragement and faith.

The Role of a Mediator
Moses' role as a mediator points to the ultimate mediation of Christ. Believers can find assurance in Christ's intercession on their behalf.

God's Mercy and Patience
Despite Israel's rebellion, God's willingness to listen to Moses' plea highlights His mercy and patience, encouraging us to rely on His grace in times of failure.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Moses' intercession in Deuteronomy 9:26 inspire you to pray for others in your life?

2. In what ways can remembering God's past faithfulness help you in your current circumstances?

3. How does Moses' role as a mediator foreshadow the work of Jesus Christ as our ultimate intercessor?

4. What are some practical ways you can remind yourself and others of God's mighty works in your life?

5. How can understanding God's mercy and patience in this passage encourage you when you face personal failures or challenges?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Exodus 32
Moses' intercession for Israel after the golden calf incident parallels his plea in Deuteronomy 9:26, emphasizing his role as an intercessor.

Psalm 106
Reflects on Israel's history, including their rebellion and God's mercy, reinforcing the themes of intercession and divine patience.

1 Samuel 12
Samuel's intercession for Israel mirrors Moses' actions, showing a consistent biblical theme of leaders praying for God's mercy on His people.

Hebrews 7
Jesus as the ultimate intercessor, drawing a parallel to Moses' mediatory role but highlighting the superiority of Christ's eternal priesthood.