Definition: And now, Israel, what doth the LORD thy God require of thee, but to fear the LORD thy God, to walk in all his ways, and to love him, and to serve the LORD thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul,
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down Deuteronomy 10:12. It's a really important verse about how we should live our lives as a people, and it’s packed with meaning! Here’s a simplified explanation: Basically, this verse is telling us to prioritize God above all else. Let's unpack each part: “And now, Israel…” : This refers back to the Israelites – the people God chose to follow. It’s like saying “Now, remember that people you were before.” “…what doth the LORD thy God require of thee…” : This is a direct instruction from God. He's giving us specific things to do. "...but to fear the LORD thy God…” : This means to respect and worship God with reverence – to be humble and aware of his power and holiness. It’s not just about being polite; it’s about recognizing that God is in charge. "...to walk in all his ways…” : This is a big one! "Walk in all his ways" means to follow God’s will exactly – to live according to His principles and commands, even when they're not easy or comfortable. It suggests a life of obedience and commitment. "...and to love him…” : This is the core of the verse. It's about having a deep, genuine affection for God. It’s more than just saying “I like God”; it means truly loving Him – recognizing His worthiness and goodness. "...and to serve the LORD thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul.” : This is a strong command to live your life as a reflection of your love for God. "With all your heart" means genuinely feeling this love; “with all thy soul” means you’re truly dedicating yourself to loving him. In short, Deuteronomy 10:12 is a call to be devoted and obedient to God, living a life that honors Him and demonstrates His goodness. It's about being a people who are deeply connected to God and committed to following His will. Why is this important? It’s a foundational principle for the whole Bible. It emphasizes that true faith isn't just about believing in something; it's about doing what God requires of you. --- Do you want me to: Explain any of these points in more detail? Give some examples of how this verse applies to our lives today?