The Days of Old

When the future feels uncertain, where do you look? Moses told Israel to remember the days of old, because recalling God’s faithfulness builds confidence for what’s ahead.

“Remember the days of old, consider the years of many generations; ask your father, and he will show you, your elders, and they will tell you” (Deuteronomy 32:7).

In one of his last acts as their leader, Moses gathered Israel to hear the words of a song. This song reminded them of their exodus from Egypt, 40 years in the wilderness, and all that God had done for them. It described times when they doubted God, but concluded that He had been their “Rock” and His work had been “perfect” (vs. 3–4).

Some Israelites had been “foolish and senseless” (v. 6), but God remained faithful. When in doubt, they just needed to ask their parents or elders who would tell them the truth: They were nothing without God, yet He “cared for” them “as the apple of his eye” (v. 10). They neglected the Lord at times and, as a result, suffered. But when they returned to Him, He brought them victory over all their enemies.

Looking forward, Moses wanted future generations to realize that they could experience this same blessing—if they served and obeyed God. They were to sing this song so future generations could remember. “It is no empty word,” Moses told them, it was their very life, for “by this word you shall live long in the land” (v. 47).

Let the words of Moses remind you to think about your past and all God has done for you. Don’t take His blessings for granted. As you remember the past, you can be confident about the future. God is with you!

Reflection Question: Are you aware of the amazing inheritance God has prepared for you?

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the “Song of Moses” in Deuteronomy 32?

It is a poem God gave Moses to teach Israel before his death, rehearsing God’s faithfulness and their tendency to forget Him. It was meant to be memorized and sung so later generations would remember (Deuteronomy 31:19–21).

What does “the apple of his eye” mean (Deuteronomy 32:10)?

The Hebrew idiom refers to the pupil—the most sensitive, carefully guarded part of the eye. To be the “apple of God’s eye” is to be treasured and protected, an image echoed in Psalm 17:8 and Zechariah 2:8.