Old Testament
Deuteronomy 31:17
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
When that happens, my anger will burn against them. I will abandon them and hide my face from them. They will be destroyed, and disaster after disaster will crash down on them. Then they'll say, 'Aren't these terrible things happening because our God is no longer with us?'
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Then my anger shall be kindled against them in that day, and I will forsake them, and I will hide my face from them, and they shall be devoured, and many evils and troubles shall befall them; so that they will say in that day, Are not these evils come upon us, because our God is not among us?
What Deuteronomy 31:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, God warns that when people turn away from Him, His anger will rise. He will withdraw His presence, leading to their downfall. Without His guidance, they will face a series of disasters. In their suffering, they will realize that their troubles stem from being separated from God. This highlights the importance of staying close to Him. When we ignore His ways, we risk losing the protection and support He offers. The consequences of turning away can be severe, leading to a life filled with challenges and despair. Ultimately, this serves as a reminder of the need for a relationship with God, as His presence brings hope and strength. Recognizing our dependence on Him is crucial for our well-being and peace. We must seek Him actively to avoid the pitfalls of life without His guidance and love. His absence can lead to chaos, but His presence brings clarity and purpose to our lives. Understanding this can help us make better choices and stay aligned with His will.
How to apply Deuteronomy 31:17 to your life
Reflect on your relationship with God. Are there areas in your life where you feel distant from Him? Make a conscious effort to reconnect through prayer, reading, and community. Remember, staying close to God can help you navigate life's challenges more effectively and find peace in difficult times. Seek His presence daily for strength and guidance. “God is always there for you.” “His love is unconditional.” “Trust in Him.”
Curated for this public verse page. Deuteronomy Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: “Be Strong and Courageous” (Deuteronomy 31:1–23)
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Moses
Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Bethel
Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.
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At a Glance — the Book of Deuteronomy
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites about to enter the Promised Land
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Deuteronomy 31:17 mean?
Deuteronomy 31:17 warns that when people turn away from God, He will withdraw His presence, leading to their downfall and suffering. It emphasizes the consequences of separation from God and the importance of maintaining a relationship with Him.
What is the significance of God's anger in Deuteronomy 31:17?
God's anger in Deuteronomy 31:17 signifies His response to disobedience and turning away from Him. It serves as a warning that distancing oneself from God can lead to serious consequences and hardships.
What are the consequences of turning away from God according to Deuteronomy 31:17?
According to Deuteronomy 31:17, turning away from God results in His anger, abandonment, and a series of disasters. People will realize that their troubles stem from being separated from God.
How can we apply the message of Deuteronomy 31:17 in our lives?
We can apply the message of Deuteronomy 31:17 by reflecting on our relationship with God and making efforts to reconnect through prayer and community. Staying close to God helps us navigate challenges and find peace.
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