The Value of Past Experiences. (Deuteronomy 3: 1-29)

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Welcome to the Podcast Episode: "The Value of Past Experiences" (Deuteronomy 3:1-29)

Today, we're exploring Deuteronomy 3:1-29, a passage that highlights the importance of reflecting on past experiences, especially victories, as a way to strengthen our faith for future challenges.

In our journey through Deuteronomy 3, we see Moses recount the victory over Og, King of Bashan, and the subsequent distribution of the conquered land among the tribes of Israel. This chapter isn't just a historical record; it's a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness and a call to remember how past victories can prepare us for future battles.

As we unpack this passage, we'll explore how Moses was instructed to encourage and strengthen Joshua, the next leader of Israel. This encouragement was more than just kind words; it was a transfer of faith, confidence, and strength, rooted in the remembrance of God's previous works. We’ll also connect these lessons to New Testament teachings, particularly the principles found in Hebrews 10:24-25, which emphasize the power of presence, consideration, and connection in offering true encouragement.

Study Notes for "The Value of Past Experiences" (Deuteronomy 3:1-29)

Key Themes:

• Reflection on Past Victories: Deuteronomy 3 recounts Israel's victory over Og, King of Bashan, emphasizing the importance of remembering God's faithfulness in past battles to build confidence for future challenges.
• Encouragement as a Spiritual Practice: Moses was commanded to encourage and strengthen Joshua, reminding him that just as God had granted victories in the past, He would continue to do so in the future. This highlights the power of encouragement in leadership and spiritual growth.
• Divine Judgment and Obedience: The chapter also touches on the consequences of disobedience, as seen in God's refusal to allow Moses to enter the Promised Land. This serves as a sober reminder of the importance of following God's commands.

Key Verses:

• Deuteronomy 3:21: "And I commanded Joshua at that time, saying, ‘Your eyes have seen all that the Lord your God has done to these two kings; so will the Lord do to all the kingdoms through which you pass.’"
• Deuteronomy 3:22: "You must not fear them, for the Lord your God Himself fights for you."

Practical Application:

1. Remember Past Victories: Reflect on how God has worked in your life before, and use those experiences to strengthen your faith for current and future challenges.
2. Encourage Others Thoughtfully: Whether in a leadership role or in everyday interactions, follow Moses' example by being present, understanding others' situations, and using carefully chosen words to uplift and strengthen their faith.
3. Trust in God’s Faithfulness: Just as God led Israel to victory, He is with us in our battles today. Lean on His promises and encourage others to do the same.

Reflection Questions:

1. How have

Transcript

The Value of Past Experiences. (Deuteronomy 3:1-29)

Full Transcript

 Introduction.

As a general rule, when people reflect on their past, they tend to focus on their fears and failures rather than their successes. This tendency might be more pronounced in older individuals, but it is a common human experience. However, I'd like to suggest that there are compelling reasons to reflect on past successes, particularly spiritual victories. 

The most significant reason for this, I think is demonstrated in Deuteronomy chapter 3But before I begin to look at the text let me provide some context.

The book of Deuteronomy consists of Moses' sermons delivered before his death. We're currently in the middle of the first of those sermons, which began in chapter one verse 6.

Up to this point, in the first two chapters, Moses has retraced the history of Israel since they left Egypt. It began at Sinai, then they journeyed to Kadesh Barnea. At Kadesh Barnea, spies were sent into the Promised Land. Upon their return, ten of the spies reported that the land was inhabited by giants, and the people concluded that they could not conquer it. 

Despite the fact that two spies, Joshua and Caleb, believed they could, the majority ruled, and the people decided not to enter the land. Consequently, the Lord declared that they would wander in the wilderness for forty years.

The actual period of wandering was thirty-eight years, as the total of forty years includes the time spent at Sinai and other locations. 

After that generation died out, the Lord instructed them to prepare the second generation to enter the Promised Land. It's important to remember that Israel left Egypt, journeyed to Mount Sinai, and eventually reached the east side of the Jordan River. To reach the Promised Land, they had to cross the territories of Edom and Moab, which we discussed in the second chapter.

Now, in Deuteronomy 3, we learn about the territory still further north. 

This chapter recounts the conquest of that territory, which positioned the Israelites across the Jordan River, ready to enter the Holy Land at Jericho. 

Chapter three can be divided into two parts: the first details the victory over the nations north of Edom and Moab, and the second highlights the value of reflecting on that victory.

With this background in mind, let's quickly look at the opening part of this chapter. There are many city names mentioned that may not hold much significance for us, but I want us to grasp the overall narrative. So, let's begin with verse 1.

The Victory Over Og, King of Bashan

Verse 1 states, 

"Then we turned and went up the road to Bashan, and Og, king of Bashan, came out against us, he and all his people, to battle at Edrei."

This verse introduces us to the territory I mentioned earlier, north of Edom and Moab. The battle took place about 30 miles east of the southern tip of the Sea of Galilee, far north of where the Israelites needed to be to cross the Jordan River and enter Jericho.

In verse 2, the Lord reassures Moses, saying.

"Do not fear him, for I have delivered him and all his people and his land into your hand; you shall do to him as you did to Sihon, king of the Amorites, who dwelt at Heshbon."

The text goes on to say that the Lord our God also delivered Og, king of Bashan, into their hands. They fought the battle, and there were no survivors.

What's crucial here is that Moses gives credit to the Lord for the victory. The Israelites fought the battle, but it was the Lord who delivered Og into their hands. This is the key point.

Now, the first three verses of this chapter are straightforward. They simply describe how the Israelites went into this part of the land, engaged in battle, and, with the Lord’s help, emerged victorious. That’s the essence of the first three verses.

Starting in verse 4 and continuing through verse 7, the text shifts focus to the spoils of war. Verse 4 tells us.

 “We took all his cities at that time; there was not a city which we did not take. There were sixty cities in all.” Verse 5 adds that “all these cities were fortified with high walls, gates, and bars, besides a great many rural towns.”

So, what we’re seeing here is a significant military achievement.

The Israelites conquered sixty cities, each one fortified with high walls and gates secured with bars. Additionally, there were many rural towns in the area, all of which were taken by the Israelites. This was no small feat; it was an extensive and challenging campaign, yet they captured it all. This, as the text says, was the spoil of war.

In verse 6, the narrative continues: 

“We utterly destroyed them, as we did to Sihon king of Heshbon, utterly destroying the men, women, and children of every city.”

This may seem harsh, but it’s important to understand that this was a judgment from God on these people for their sins, particularly their idolatry and other wicked practices. The utter destruction of these cities was a form of divine judgment.

Verse 7 tells us that while the inhabitants were destroyed.

All the livestock and the spoils of the cities we took as booty for ourselves.”

In other words, verses 4-7 are not just recounting a victory; they’re detailing the extent of what was conquered. Sixty fortified cities and countless rural towns were taken, and the Israelites seized the livestock and other spoils as their own.

Now, moving on to verse 8 and continuing through verse 11, the passage describes the land that was taken. Verse 8 says

“And at that time we took the land from the hand of the two kings of the Amorites who were on this side of the Jordan.”

The verses that follow, 9 through 10, provide the specific locations of these lands, though these places may not hold much significance for us today. However, it’s important to note that this territory was on the east side of the Jordan River and included notable landmarks such as Mount Hermon, which is of particular interest.

Mount Hermon stood 9,200 feet high and marked the northern border of the territory captured by Israel. This was a significant geographical and military accomplishment for the Israelites.

In verse 11, we learn that 

“Only Og king of Bashan remained of the remnant of the giants.”

This is a critical detail. Do you remember back when the Israelites were at Kadesh Barnea, their initial objection to entering the Promised Land? They feared the giants who lived there. 

Here we see the second generation of Israelites conquering a part of the land on the east side of the Jordan River—a land that also had giants.

Starting from verse 12. The text begins to outline the division of the conquered land among the tribes of Israel. The first part of verse 12 says, “And this land, which we possessed at that time,” and then it goes on to specify the dimensions and locations. It mentions that the rest of Gilead and the area of Bashan were given to the half-tribe of Manasseh.

The passage lists several names and locations, some of the text again placed within brackets to indicate that this list is an editorial note later added to give the contemporaneous reader context.

This might not hold much meaning for us today but the key point, however, is that this was the land God had promised, and now, after their victory, it was being distributed among the tribes. God had fulfilled His promise, and the Israelites were now in possession of a significant portion of the land.

Verse 19 shifts focus slightly, addressing the practicalities of what was to happen next. It says

But your wives, your little ones, and your livestock (I know that you have much livestock) shall stay in your cities which I have given you, until the Lord has given rest to your brethren as to you, and they also possess the land which the Lord your God is giving them beyond the Jordan. Then each of you may return to his possession which I have given you.’

(Deuteronomy 3: 19-20)

This verse clarifies that while the men of the 2 1/2 tribes were to cross the Jordan River and help conquer the western side of the Promised Land, their families and livestock would remain in the cities they had already captured. 

The men were expected to fulfil their military obligations by helping their fellow Israelites secure the rest of the land. Only after the entire land was conquered could they return to their families and their possessions without fear.

In verse 21, Moses shifts his focus to Joshua, saying, 

And I commanded Joshua at that time, saying, ‘Your eyes have seen all that the Lord your God has done to these two kings; so will the Lord do to all the kingdoms through which you pass.

(Deuteronomy 3: 21)

This verse is pivotal. Moses is preparing Joshua for his upcoming leadership role. Joshua has witnessed firsthand the Lord’s victory over the Amorite kings. Moses is reminding him that the same God who granted them victory in the past will be with them as they continue to conquer the land.

This is a critical lesson for Joshua—and for us as well. The victories of the past are not just historical records; they are reminders of God’s faithfulness and power. Moses is urging Joshua to trust in the Lord, knowing that God will fight for them in the future battles just as He has in the past.

Moses continues in verse 22,

 “You must not fear them, for the Lord your God Himself fights for you.’

(Deuteronomy 3: 22)

This is a recurring theme in Deuteronomy: the assurance that God is the one who fights for Israel. The people did the physical fighting, but it was God who gave them the victory. Moses is now passing this assurance to Joshua, encouraging him to trust in God’s continued support as they face future challenges.

However, even amidst the victory and encouragement, we see a poignant moment in Moses’ life. In the following verses Moses recounts how he pleaded with the Lord at that time, saying,

Then I pleaded with the Lord at that time, saying: ‘O Lord God, You have begun to show Your servant Your greatness and Your mighty hand, for what god is there in heaven or on earth who can do anything like Your works and Your mighty deeds? I pray, let me cross over and see the good land beyond the Jordan, those pleasant mountains, and Lebanon.’

(Deuteronomy 3: 23-25)

Moses is expressing a deep desire to enter the Promised Land. He acknowledges God’s greatness and the miraculous deeds He has performed. Moses is hoping that perhaps, given the recent victories and blessings, God might allow him to cross over into the land, even if just for a short visit.

But God’s response is firm, Moses says, 

But the Lord was angry with me on your account and would not listen to me. So, the Lord said to me: ‘Enough of that! Speak no more to Me of this matter.

(Deuteronomy 3: 26)

The Hebrew text suggests that Moses may have repeatedly asked God for this Favor, but God’s answer remained unchanged. He was angry with Moses, and He would not allow him to enter the land.

This is one of the most sombre moments in the Bible. God’s refusal to grant Moses’ request is a stark reminder of the consequences of disobedience. 

Despite Moses’ faithful service and leadership, his earlier disobedience at the waters of Meribah—where he struck the rock twice instead of speaking to it as God commanded—meant that he would not be allowed to enter the Promised Land. 

God tells Moses, in no uncertain terms, that this matter is settled and that there would be no further negotiation.

In verse 27, God gives Moses a final command:

“Go up to the top of Pisgah, and lift your eyes toward the west, the north, the south, and the east; behold it with your eyes, for you shall not cross over this Jordan.”

((Deuteronomy 3: 27)

God instructs Moses to climb Mount Nebo, where he would be able to see the Promised Land in every direction. However, Moses would not be permitted to cross over into it. This was both a blessing and a consequence—Moses could see the land, but he could not enter it.

This passage is a powerful reminder of God’s justice and mercy. While Moses was denied entry into the Promised Land, he was still granted a glimpse of it. It also serves as an important reminder that while God is faithful to His promises, He also holds us accountable for our actions. Moses’ experience teaches us the importance of obedience and trust in God, even when His decisions are difficult to accept.

As we approach the end of Deuteronomy 3, the closing verses 28 highlights a critical moment where God instructs Moses

8 But command Joshua and encourage him and strengthen him; for he shall go over before this people, and he shall cause them to inherit the land which you will see. “So, we stayed in the valley opposite Beth Peor.

(Deuteronomy 3: 28-29)

The passage closes by saying that Joshua will lead the people into the land and help them to inherit it. The chapter concludes with them staying in the valley, but the focus here is on the importance of Moses’ role in encouraging Joshua.

So, why is this so significant? 

The value of past victories always lies in the encouragement they provide for future battles. The victories that Israel had experienced under Moses’ leadership were meant to serve as a foundation for the future, specifically for Joshua as he prepared to take the reins.

But how does one effectively encourage someone, particularly in a spiritual context of how it should be applied by the teaching of Jesus and the New Testament writers?

This is where the message becomes highly relevant for us today. 

Encouragement is not just about offering kind words; it’s about strengthening and empowering others to face their challenges with faith and confidence.

To understand how to encourage someone effectively, let’s turn to Hebrews 10:24-25, for a moment, which says, 

Let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.

(Hebrews 1) 24-25)

This passage provides a New covenant blueprint for encouragement, highlighting three key principles:

1.     Be Present:

The first and most crucial step in encouraging someone is to be there for them. Hebrews 10:25 emphasizes the importance of not forsaking the assembly. While this initially referred to the early Jewish Christians who were tempted to abandon their gatherings, the principle applies to us today in a broader sense.

You cannot encourage someone if you are not present in their life, whether physically or through other forms of communication like calls, messages, or letters.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, many of us learned the value of in-person presence. While technology can bridge gaps, there is no substitute for being physically present when it comes to offering genuine support and encouragement. Simply being there, showing up, can make a world of difference.

2.     Consider Others:

Hebrews 10:24 urges us to “consider one another,” which means to take note of others, to perceive their needs and circumstances carefully. It’s not enough to be physically present; you must also be mentally and emotionally present. This involves listening—really listening—to what someone is going through.

You can’t encourage someone effectively if you don’t understand their situation. Listening is the key to understanding. 

Often, we think we know what someone is dealing with, but until they open up and share their thoughts and feelings, we’re just guessing. And even then, as every counsellor knows, it might take time for them to fully express what’s on their mind. Oour role is to listen attentively and consider their needs thoughtfully.

3.     Identify and Connect:

Once you understand what someone is going through, you can identify with them. This might involve sharing a personal story that parallels their experience. Doing so can help them feel understood and less isolated in their struggles. However, it’s crucial that the story you share is relevant and truly reflects their experience. If your situation doesn’t match theirs, it might be better to simply listen and offer empathy.

When you share a story that resonates with them, it creates a connection that says, “I understand what you’re going through.” This kind of identification if genuine can be incredibly comforting and can strengthen the bond between you, making your encouragement more impactful.

Returning to Deuteronomy 3, Moses was told to encourage Joshua. He was to remind Joshua of the victories they had already experienced and assure him that God would continue to fight for them. 

Moses’ task was to transfer his own faith and confidence to Joshua, preparing him for the challenges ahead.

In the same way, when we encourage others, we’re not just offering words; we’re transferring strength, confidence, and faith. We’re helping them see that the same God who was with them in the past will be with them in the future. 

Encouragement, therefore, is not just about making someone feel better—it’s about empowering them to face what lies ahead with courage and faith.

To effectively encourage someone, you need to be present, consider their situation carefully, and connect with them by identifying with their experiences. Whether it’s a friend facing a difficult situation, a family member in need of support, or a fellow believer preparing for a new challenge, your encouragement can make a significant difference in their journey. 

As Moses encouraged Joshua, so too are we called to strengthen and uplift those around us, helping them to trust in God’s faithfulness for the battles yet to come.

Conclusion: The Power and Practice of Encouragement.

As we close out our exploration of Deuteronomy chapter 3, we reach the important moment where Moses is instructed by God to command, encourage, and strengthen Joshua. This directive is not just a passing thought but a crucial part of preparing Joshua for the monumental task ahead, that of leading the Israelites into the Promised Land.

Moses was told to go up Mount Nebo, look over the land, but ultimately, he would not enter it. Instead, his role was to encourage Joshua, the next leader of Israel. This moment underscores the profound value of encouragement, particularly when preparing someone for a significant challenge or transition.

People need to feel understood before they can be comforted or encouraged. Even if you haven’t experienced the exact same situation, it’s essential to let them know that you’re trying to understand, and sometimes that means simply listening to them share their story. 

Professional counsellors often use a technique called Rogerian rhetoric where they repeat back what the person has said, to ensure they’ve understood correctly. This approach is effective because it shows the person that you’re truly listening and trying to grasp their situation.

One of the most significant things you can do for someone is to listen to them. In many cases, people are not looking for solutions right away; they want someone to hear them out and understand what they’re going through. 

This is particularly relevant for Christian who sometimes can have a tendency to be too quick to offer biblical answers without first fully understanding the person’s situation.

Before offering any advice or encouragement, it’s important to ask questions, listen carefully, and assess the situation. 

This principle is universal, whether you’re dealing with grief, fear, doubt, or any other challenge. The key steps in ministering to someone include being there for them, considering their situation carefully, and identifying with their experience as best as you can.

Encouragement should become our normal spiritual practice

In the New Testament, the Greek word for “exhort” can also mean “comfort” or “encourage.” This is seen in passages like 1 Thessalonians 4:18 and Hebrews 10:25, where believers are urged to encourage one another. 

The focus is always on helping others maintain their faith, particularly during difficult times.

Christian encouragement is about helping someone believe in what God says and in what He can do in their lives. It’s about reassuring them that they can trust God’s promises and that He will come through for them just as He has in the past.

So, let’s all try and apply these principles seen here in Deuteronomy chapter 3. 

Moses was there for Joshua. Even though Moses could not enter the Promised Land, he was present to support Joshua. 

Moses had carefully considered Joshua’s situation, knowing the immense responsibility that lay ahead. He had also identified with Joshua’s fears but reminded him of past victories and urging him not to be afraid. 

Moses encouraged Joshua by pointing to what God had already done, thereby strengthening Joshua’s faith for the challenges to come.

Encouragement is not just about positive words; it’s about reminding someone of their past victories and God’s faithfulness. 

When you want to encourage someone, think back to a time when God came through for them, and use that experience to strengthen their faith for the future.

You can’t underestimate the importance of using carefully chosen words.

Encouragement is an important business and deserves careful attention.

Encouragement in Christian fellowship is more than just social interaction; it has eternal significance. Encouragement from a Chistian perspective involves the careful selection of words that are intended to uplift and strengthen others in their faith.

When encouraging someone, it’s not just about what you say but how you say it. Your words should be thoughtfully chosen to build up their faith and confidence in God. 

Whether you’re dealing with fear, grief, or any other challenge, the goal is to help the person trust in God’s promises and believe in their ability to overcome through His strength.

In summary, let me close by saying that the gift of encouragement is a powerful tool in the life of a believer. 

It requires presence, understanding, and carefully chosen words. 

Moses’ encouragement of Joshua serves here as a timeless example of how past victories can be used to strengthen faith for future battles. 

As you go about trying to encourage others, remember the importance of listening, understanding, and connecting their experiences with God’s faithfulness. This approach not only uplifts others but also helps them to trust in God’s provision and strength for whatever lies ahead.

And we can be thankful for the lessons we can learn from Moses and Joshua. And I trust that in the future you can also be present for others, listen carefully to people, and to encourage them with words that strengthen their faith in God.