Main Idea
Moses recounts Israel’s victory over King Og and the division of land east of the Jordan, affirming God’s faithfulness and preparing the people to follow Joshua into the Promised Land.
Key Verse
“Do not be afraid of them, for I have delivered them into your hands, along with their lands.” (Deuteronomy 3:2)
Commentary
Deuteronomy 3 continues Moses’ historical review, focusing on Israel’s conquest of Og, king of Bashan, after their earlier victory over Sihon. Both of these Amorite kings ruled territories east of the Jordan River, and their defeat marked the beginning of Israel’s possession of the promised inheritance. These victories served as tangible proofs of God’s power and a preview of the triumphs that awaited Israel in Canaan.
Og’s kingdom was no minor opponent. He was the last of the Rephaites, a race of giants, and his iron bed—more than thirteen feet long—is mentioned to underscore his intimidating stature (v. 11). Yet, God tells Moses the same thing He said before the battle with Sihon: “Do not be afraid of him.” The repetition of this command is significant. It reminds Israel—and us—that no enemy, no matter how imposing, is beyond God’s power to defeat.
The destruction of Og’s kingdom was complete, and the territory became part of Israel’s inheritance. Moses then turns to the division of this land among the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. This passage shows that God had already begun to fulfill His promise of giving the land to His people, and Moses wants the next generation to see that His word never fails.
Importantly, Moses instructs the eastern tribes that although they’ve received their inheritance, their warriors must continue to fight alongside the other tribes until all of Israel possesses the land. This highlights the value of unity, mutual responsibility, and shared mission within the covenant community.
The chapter ends on a more personal note. Moses shares his own plea to enter the Promised Land—his heartfelt desire to see the fulfillment of God’s promises with his own eyes. But God denies the request and tells him to view the land from a distance. He also instructs Moses to commission Joshua and encourage him, for Joshua will lead the people in. This moment underscores God's justice, Moses' humility, and the orderly transition of leadership.
Life Application
Deuteronomy 3 reminds us that God is both faithful to His promises and sovereign in His decisions. The victories over Sihon and Og were not accidents of timing or military skill—they were direct acts of God. When we look back on our lives, we can often see how God prepared the way and gave us victories that we could not have achieved on our own.
God’s repeated command not to fear is a call to trust His power, not our strength. Israel faced terrifying enemies, but God's word to them was clear: He had already delivered the victory. When we face overwhelming challenges, we must remember that God’s promises carry His power with them. If He calls us to something, He will provide the strength and resources to accomplish it.
This chapter also emphasizes the importance of shared responsibility. The eastern tribes could have settled into comfort, but God required them to keep fighting for the good of the whole nation. In the church today, we are called to stand with one another, even when our own needs seem met. Unity in purpose and mission is essential to God's plan.
Finally, Moses’ personal disappointment teaches us something profound. Even faithful leaders experience unanswered prayers. Moses accepted God's "no" with grace, and instead of retreating into bitterness, he poured himself into encouraging Joshua. That’s the mark of a godly leader—one who champions the next generation and remains faithful to the mission even when his own role is reduced.
What Can I Do?
Face your fears with faith – Identify something in your life that feels intimidating or overwhelming. Bring it before God in prayer, and choose to trust that He has already gone before you.
Support the mission beyond your own needs – Look for a way to serve or support someone else’s spiritual journey, even if your own “inheritance” feels secure.
Ask Yourself
What "giants" am I facing that God is calling me not to fear?
How have I seen God's faithfulness in past battles, and how does that encourage me today?
Am I tempted to settle into comfort while others still need help fighting their battles?
How do I respond when God says "no" to something I deeply desire? Can I still serve with joy and purpose?
What can I do to build up and encourage the next generation of leaders in my church or family?
Guided Prayer
Thanksgiving: Thank God for the victories He has already given you, for fulfilling His promises in your life, and for the faithful leaders who have gone before you.
Intercession: Pray for those who are currently facing spiritual battles—ask God to strengthen their faith and surround them with a supportive community.
Petition: Ask God for courage to face the challenges ahead and for a heart that willingly supports others in their journey of faith.
Confession: Confess any fear, complacency, or self-focus that has kept you from joining God’s mission with your whole heart.
Praise: Praise God for His power, justice, and faithfulness. Worship Him as the God who defeats giants, shares blessings, and raises up new leaders for every generation.
