We are finally approaching the end of the book of Deuteronomy and the end of Moses’ career and life. His remaining days are few. He’s about to utter his last words, his final remarks to the nation and then turn over the leadership to Joshua.

Last words are often very important. They often say something about the one who utters them.

Here are the last words of several famous people:

All my possessions for a moment of time. ~~ Elizabeth I, Queen of England, d. 1603

It is very beautiful over there. ~~ Thomas Alva Edison, inventor, d. October 18, 1931

I must go in, the fog is rising. ~~ Emily Dickinson, poet, d. 1886

That was the best ice-cream soda I ever tasted. ~~ Lou Costello, comedian, d. March 3, 1959

Friends applaud, the comedy is finished. ~~ Ludwig van Beethoven, composer, d. March 26, 1827

Lord help my poor soul. ~~ Edgar Allan Poe, writer, d. October 7, 1849

One of the main ideas in Deut 31 is that Moses is going to die and Joshua will be taking over. This chapter records some of Moses’ last words. Moses has a few further things to say after this, but this passage contains his final exhortations to Israel. These statements are quite profound; he says some important things about leadership and the courage leaders need.

Let’s see how this passage records some of Moses’ final remarks to Israel.