This verse holds profound wisdom about the knowledge and understanding of God's ways and His revealed truths. Let's explore its meaning using quotes from the World English Bible translation.
The verse begins by acknowledging that there are secret things that belong to Yahweh, our God. These secret things refer to the mysteries, hidden purposes, and knowledge that are known only to God. They are beyond human comprehension and understanding. God, being all-knowing and sovereign, holds the depths of wisdom that surpass human understanding.
On the other hand, the verse states that the things that are revealed belong to us and to our children forever. These revealed things encompass the truths, commands, and teachings that God has chosen to make known to His people. Through His Word and His self-disclosure, God reveals His will, His character, and His plan for humanity.
The purpose of God's revelation is not merely to satisfy curiosity, but to guide and instruct His people. By revealing His truths, God provides us with the knowledge we need to live in obedience and righteousness. It is through understanding His revealed truths that we are equipped to follow and honor God's commands.
The verse emphasizes that the purpose of possessing this revealed knowledge is to fulfill God's will and live in obedience to His law. It is not enough to merely know the truths that God has revealed; we are called to apply them in our lives, to obey His commands, and to align our actions with His will.
Furthermore, the verse highlights the continuity of this revealed knowledge from generation to generation. It states that these revealed things belong to us and to our children forever. God's revelation is not limited to a specific time or generation but extends throughout the ages. It is a heritage to be passed on to future generations, ensuring that the knowledge and understanding of God's ways are perpetuated.
The purpose of passing down this revealed knowledge is for us to "do all the words of this law." The emphasis is on action and obedience. God's revealed truths are meant to shape our behavior, guide our decisions, and transform our lives. The goal is not only to possess knowledge but to live according to that knowledge, allowing it to influence our thoughts, attitudes, and actions.
Deuteronomy 29:29 offers a profound perspective on the relationship between God's secret things and His revealed truths. While there are aspects of God's wisdom and knowledge that remain hidden to us, He has graciously chosen to reveal what is necessary for us to know and live faithfully. It is our responsibility to embrace and apply His revealed truths in our lives, passing them down to future generations.
As we strive to understand and live according to God's revealed truths, we can find comfort and assurance in the fact that God holds the secret things. We may not comprehend everything, but we can trust in His wisdom and rest in His sovereignty. Our focus should be on faithfully walking in obedience to the revealed truths and following the path that God has illuminated for us.
In summary, Deuteronomy 29:29 reminds us that while there are secret things known only to God, He has graciously revealed truths that belong to us and to our children. These revealed things are meant to guide our actions and shape our lives according to His will. It is our responsibility to embrace and apply these revealed truths, passing them down to future generations. As we walk in obedience to God's revealed truths, we can trust in His wisdom and sovereignty, knowing that He holds the secret things in His hands.
Deuteronomy 29:29. The secret things belong to Yahweh our God; but the things that are revealed belong to us and to our children forever.