Old Testament: Deu 2.4

To read the Bible in a year, read Deuteronomy 1–2 on March 6, In the year of our Lord Christ 2023

By Don Ruhl 

Israel was not a threat to Esau. However, although they were brothers, the nation of Esau would fear Israel as they marched from Egypt to the Land of Canaan. Therefore, the Lord said: 

“And command the people, saying, ‘You are about to pass through the territory of your brethren, the descendants of Esau, who live in Seir; and they will be afraid of you. Therefore watch yourselves carefully.’”

– Deuteronomy 2.4 

We have to understand their fear, whether it was founded or not. Think of a minimum of 3.5 million marching out of one nation and then moving toward your nation. You would question their motives and what they might do to you. 

However, the Lord had already given Esau their land. Therefore, he would not use Israel to displace them or destroy them. 

Nevertheless, the nation of Esau would fear Israel, and that fear could prompt them to war against Israel. Therefore, the Lord warned Israel to watch them. 

Even if we do not intend harm to someone, they may fear us simply because of what we believe and how we live. The best thing to do is to watch them, but also to do good toward them. 

Questions: 

• Who were the parents of the men Israel and Esau? 
• Do you mean harm to anyone? 

To subscribe go to EmailDevotionals.com and click “Follow” 

Don preaches with the Savage Street Church of Christ in Grants Pass, Oregon. 

Listen to his sermons here: GrantsPassChurchOfChrist.com