Bible reading: Song of Moses
I finished the Pentateuch today. There were many small things that struck me throughout the book of Deuteronomy this time, and I kept notes on very few of them because I (foolishly) read out of any handy Bible rather than sticking with my own. Live and learn - I hope those things will jump out at me again next time so that I can take better notes.
Yesterday I was so struck by the “preface” to the Song of Moses that I read the entire passage aloud to the sick children who stayed home from church with me.
We have all heard of the Song of Moses, and maybe some of us (not me!) remember what it is about. But do you remember why it was written? It was not a “farewell, enjoy the Promised Land” speech. No, no, no.
Deu 31:19 “Now therefore write this song and teach it to the people of Israel. Put it in their mouths, that this song may be a witness for me against the people of Israel.
Deu 31:20 For when I have brought them into the land flowing with milk and honey, which I swore to give to their fathers, and they have eaten and are full and grown fat, they will turn to other gods and serve them, and despise me and break my covenant.
Deu 31:21 And when many evils and troubles have come upon them, this song shall confront them as a witness (for it will live unforgotten in the mouths of their offspring). For I know what they are inclined to do even today, before I have brought them into the land that I swore to give.”
That just sends chills up and down my spine. Music wields great influence in our minds and in our lives. For better or worse, its effects can last for generations.
What is our pop music today doing to us and our offspring? What effects are we seeing today from the music of generations past?
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Filed under: Bible
Music is deeply affecting us. Even when we do not listen to the lyrics they sneak into our subconscious. Even the beat can influence your mood. The grunge stuff is terrifying to me. No wonder there is so much wickedness in our young people today. I love Deuteronomy.
What a wonderful passage, Kim! Danny and I are reading through Deut. again right now — what wonderful promises and awesome warnings! I had never really caught the significance of the song in this passage.
I am a musician, and, in fact, I believe the beauty and mathematical order of music is prime evidence for Creation (although God said it, that’s all that matters — sidetracked granny here). You are right about the lasting influence of music — and it is an area the church needs to be careful to be Biblical about. Thanks, Kim!