1. The Lord speaks of Moses' death (32:48-52)

Moses' task was finished. It was time for him to go to be with God. He was not permitted to enter the promised land--but he could look over into it from the heights of Mt. Nebo. God was strict with him because he was a shepherd. A shepherd must honor God among the people at all times (Nu 20:9-13).

2. Moses blesses the tribes (33:1-29)

Moses had a bright vision of God who loved his people and who had escorted them through the desert with his angels. The Lord is King and he rules by his Law. Moses' shepherd's love is poured out in his blessings; he prays for each tribe. [Simeon is missing; there are 2 tribes of Joseph.] He especially remembered how the Levites had defended God's honor at Sinai, even standing against their own loved ones (Ex 32). In verses 26-29, he reminds them that belonging to God is the only real security in this world or the next. There is no one like God and no people like his people.

Application: Lord, I trust the security of your everlasting arms; help me to be faithful to you.
One Word: Underneath are the everlasting arms