Deuteronomy 17:19 – “It is to be with him, and he is to read it all the days of his life so that he may learn to revere the Lord his God and follow carefully all the words of this law and these decrees.”
Extended Explanation
Deuteronomy 17:19 instructs the king of Israel to keep a personal copy of God’s law with him at all times and to read it daily throughout his life. This command highlights the importance of the king’s constant engagement with God’s Word, not just as a rulebook but as a guide for living a life that honors God. By reading the law every day, the king would continually remind himself of God’s commands, ensuring that his decisions, actions, and leadership aligned with God’s will.
The purpose of this daily reading was twofold: first, to cultivate a deep respect and reverence for God, and second, to help the king carefully obey all that God had commanded. This verse emphasizes that the king’s relationship with God was foundational to his role as a leader. The discipline of daily reading and meditation on the law was meant to shape his heart and mind, guiding him to lead with wisdom, humility, and a commitment to God’s standards.
Historical Context
When Moses gave this command, the Israelites were preparing to enter the Promised Land, and God was setting the framework for how they would be governed. The concept of a king reading the law daily was revolutionary compared to other ancient monarchies, where kings often ruled by their own decrees, feeling above the laws that governed their subjects. In Israel, the king was not above the law but under it, accountable to God’s commands.
This practice set Israel’s leadership apart from the practices of surrounding nations. It reinforced that the true King of Israel was God, and the human king was merely a servant leader called to uphold God’s laws. Throughout Israel’s history, when kings neglected God’s Word, the nation suffered. Conversely, when kings like David and Josiah returned to God’s law, the nation experienced renewal and blessing.
Theological Implications
Theologically, Deuteronomy 17:19 underscores the importance of God’s Word as the foundation for godly leadership and daily living. It teaches that regular engagement with Scripture is crucial for cultivating a heart that reveres God and follows His ways. The command for the king to read the law daily reminds us that no one, not even a king, is exempt from the need for constant instruction and correction from God’s Word.
This verse also highlights the concept of reverence—having a deep respect and awe for God. It shows that reverence is developed through consistent exposure to God’s commands and a humble recognition of His authority. The king’s daily reading of the law was intended to keep him grounded, reminding him that his power and authority were given by God and were to be exercised in submission to His will.
Literary Analysis
Deuteronomy 17:19 is written in a straightforward and prescriptive manner, emphasizing the importance of the king’s personal engagement with Scripture. The phrases “it is to be with him” and “he is to read it all the days of his life” are commands that stress the ongoing, lifelong commitment to God’s Word. This is not a one-time event but a daily discipline that shapes the king’s character and actions.
The verse also includes a purpose statement: “so that he may learn to revere the Lord his God.” This language makes it clear that the daily reading of the law is not just for information but for transformation. It’s about developing a relationship with God that is rooted in respect, obedience, and a desire to honor Him in all things.
Biblical Cross-References
Other biblical passages highlight the importance of engaging regularly with God’s Word:
- Psalm 1:2: “But whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night.”
- Joshua 1:8: “Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it.”
- Psalm 119:97: “Oh, how I love your law! I meditate on it all day long.”
These verses echo the call to immerse oneself in Scripture, showing that a consistent connection with God’s Word is key to living a life that pleases Him.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For today’s Christian, Deuteronomy 17:19 serves as a reminder of the importance of daily Bible reading and meditation. Just as the king was instructed to keep the law close and read it daily, believers are encouraged to engage regularly with God’s Word. This daily discipline helps us grow in our reverence for God and guides our decisions and actions.
This verse challenges Christians to prioritize Scripture in their lives, recognizing that it is not just a book of rules but a guide to knowing God’s heart. By spending time in God’s Word each day, we allow it to shape our thoughts, attitudes, and behaviors, helping us live in a way that honors God.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s instruction for the king to read the law daily is a reflection of His love and desire for a close relationship with His people. God knows that His Word is life-giving, offering wisdom, guidance, and correction. His command is not about legalism but about helping His people stay connected to Him.
God’s love is seen in His provision of His Word as a constant source of encouragement and instruction. By calling the king—and by extension, all of us—to engage with His Word daily, God is inviting us into a deeper relationship with Him, where we can learn, grow, and be transformed.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus Christ perfectly modeled the importance of knowing and living by God’s Word. Throughout His life, Jesus frequently quoted Scripture, demonstrating His deep connection to God’s commands. In Luke 4:16-21, Jesus read from the Scriptures in the synagogue, showing His commitment to God’s Word and fulfilling it in His ministry.
Jesus taught that His followers are to remain in His Word, saying in John 15:7, “If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.” Jesus’ life and teachings underscore that God’s Word is not just to be read but to be lived, shaping our hearts and guiding our steps.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How can you make daily Bible reading a consistent habit in your life, and what changes might it bring to your relationship with God?
- What does it mean to you to revere God, and how does engaging with Scripture help develop that reverence?
- How does understanding the king’s need to read the law daily challenge you to stay connected to God’s Word, no matter your role or responsibilities?
- In what ways does Jesus’ example of living by God’s Word inspire you to deepen your own commitment to Scripture?
This article encourages reflection on the vital role of God’s Word in our daily lives, the call to reverence God through Scripture, and the transformative power of engaging with His commands regularly.