Carried By the Father (Deuteronomy 1:31)

“In the wilderness thou hast seen how the Lord thy God bare thee, as a man doth bear his son, in all the way that ye went.” — Deuteronomy 1:31

 

Summary:

God’s care for his people is portrayed as a father carrying his young child through the wilderness. Human tenderness helps explain the image, but every human weakness must be set aside when it is applied to God. Earthly parents may be absent, ignorant, unable, or changeable; God is always present, perfectly wise, almighty, and unchanging in love. Remembering how he has carried us should awaken wonder and gratitude, strengthen our confidence for the remaining journey, and shape how we treat others. Those who know the Father’s mercy should show kindness to the needy, commend his care to the young, and direct the bereaved to the One who can more than repair their losses. 

 

Outline:

• God’s care is fatherly
  • The Lord carries, comforts, and provides for his children.
• His people are weak and dependent
  • Like a young child unable to travel alone, they need to be borne throughout the way.
• Divine care has no human defect
  • God is never absent, weary, ignorant, powerless, changeable, negligent, or cruel.
• Past mercy encourages the future
  • The God who carried his people will remain with them until they reach their rest.
• The Father’s mercy becomes our example
  • Believers should help the needy, guide the young, comfort the bereaved, and commend God to others.