One of the tools I use to encourage myself in the memory of Holy Scripture is the Fighter Verse app. It is a really helpful way to get weekly passages hidden in my heart, that I might not sin against God (Psalm 119:11).
This week, the passage is from the book of Deuteronomy and the story of Israel. After their rebellion against God and forty years in the wilderness, wandering, they are now on the cusp of the Promised Land. Before they enter, Moses launches into an extended sermon, preparing the people for obedience and blessing in their new home. A few minutes into his exhortation, we find our memory passage:
Hear, O Israel:
Yahweh our God,
Yahweh is one.
You shall love Yahweh your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.
(Deuteronomy 6:4-5, ESV)
"Hear, O Israel."
Hear.
Huh. Why would Moses utter what seems like such a rudimentary and simple command at this point in the life of God's people? What might be bound up in the word, "hear"? And how might such an exhortation continue to apply to God's people today?
Well, thanks to the folks over at The Bible Project, we've got a great start on meditating on this passage and its ongoing significance. Take a few minutes to watch and hear.
