Today's Reading: Deuteronomy 32:1-29

 

He is The Rock

Moses is now an old man.  He has lived a long and very hard life.  And he has learned a lot about the LORD, his God during his lifetime.  As he nears his last few hours on earth, he sits down to write a song.  A song about this God he has met and...

followed. He gathers the people together and recites the words of this song to them.  Today, we call it “The Song of Moses.”  Being aware of the people’s tendency to rebel against God, Moses left with them with this song that he wanted everyone to take to heart.

The lyrics of this song paint an amazing picture of who God is, what He has taught the people, and how the people of God should move forward without Moses.  He reminds them of the character of God and the corruption of humanity – exhorting them to remember the great power and kindness of God.   The song reminded the people of God’s loving care for them and of the need for faithfulness on their part towards Him.

It is important to note that Moses refers to God as “The Rock” at least five times in this song. Not just “a” rock, but “The” Rock.  By one count, the LORD is called “The Rock” some 59 times in the Bible, with Psalm 18:2 being perhaps the most well-known verse, “The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, My God, my rock, in whom I take refuge; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.”

The metaphor of The Rock points to God being strong, solid, steadfast, and consistent, not easily moved or shaken and a refuge for those in need.  To the Israelites, a rock spoke to them as a place of safety and security.  A place to hide from danger.  A rock can provide security, a "fortress" and place of "protection.”  They were well aware that the best place to hide from their enemies was in and amongst the solid protection of a rock.  The expression evokes vivid imagery and a sense of security. God is a trustworthy, rock-solid Savior.  Moses tells them that this same Rock who has brought you this far, will continue to be your Rock as you move forward.  Hide in Him.  Seek safety in His strength. Continue to follow and obey Him.

Later on, Jesus would build on this imagery and teach that those who listened to His teachings and applied them to their lives were like those who build their house on a rock – a solid foundation (Matthew 7:24).  There are spiritual dangers and hazards all around you and me.  Don’t build your life exposed to these hazards.  Build your life on the strong, solid, steadfast, and consistent Rock of your salvation.  This same Rock who has brought you this far, will continue to be your Rock as you move forward in Him.  Hide in Him. Seek safety in His strength. Continue to follow and obey Him.