In Deuteronomy 11:26–16:17, Moses sets before Israel the choice of blessing or curse. God gives this same charge later in Deuteronomy 30 and again commands—“Choose life!” The Hebrew word Re’eh is in the imperative form, meaning “you see!” The call is personal. Each person is responsible to see clearly and to make faithful choices that align with God’s will. Obedience isn’t just about grand acts of faith. It is often lived out in daily decisions, the little choices that shape our direction. Choosing life is both a responsibility and a blessing, for in following God’s way, we find provision, protection, and purpose. The Lord makes the options plain. The decision, however, rests with us. In all matters of life, our choices matter.
God then moves quickly into instruction: destroy the Canaanite religious centers, avoid idolatry, and offer sacrifices only in the place the Lord chooses. That place, He says, is where He will put His name. Ultimately, this was revealed to be Jerusalem and the Temple, the center of worship for Israel. God warns not to add or subtract from His word, and to be wary of false prophets who seek to lure people away from His truth. He also revisits dietary laws and introduces tithing, the Sabbatical year, and the pilgrimage festivals. These commands were designed not only to ensure worship, but also to sustain community life. In God’s economy, spiritual devotion and practical provision are always connected. Obedience secures both.
The tithing commands in Deuteronomy point to something deeper than obligation. There were actually two tithings of a tenth, one for the Levites and a tenth of produce and livestock for the tither to enjoy themselves in God’s presence during the festivals. Tithing ensured that those who ministered before God had provision, while also reminding Israel to rejoice in the Lord’s goodness. Though the original tithe was specific to the land of Israel, the practice of giving a tenth became a model for generosity. Abraham and Jacob tithed even before the Torah was given. Later, Jesus affirmed the principle of supporting teachers of the Word in Matthew 10:10, and Paul taught that elders who labor in the Word deserve support (1 Timothy 5:17-18). Giving, in God’s plan, was never just a duty—it was an act of worship.
Today, we’re not bound by the same agricultural laws of ancient Israel, but the heart of giving remains. We are called to give to our congregations, to the poor, and to those teaching the Word. A tithe is a good starting place, but true discipleship asks, “How much more can I give, and with joy?” The sages taught that giving with a joyful heart reflects trust in God’s provision. Generosity ensures the needs of all are met, strengthens community, and keeps our hearts aligned with God’s purposes. The call of Re’eh is clear: see what the Lord has set before you, choose life, and rejoice in giving. When we give joyfully, we walk in blessing, and our hearts are shaped by the goodness of God. As is written in Deuteronomy 16:17, “Every man shall give as he is able, according to the blessing of the Lord thy God which He has given you.”
