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Today’s reading from Deuteronomy 17–20 reminded me of the importance of immersing oneself in the Word of God. The best way to learn a language or culture is through immersion. I took three years of Spanish in high school and could barely remember how to say ¿Cómo se llama? But after living a year in Costa Rica and three more in Paraguay—¡Bob’s your uncle!—I’m now considered “fluent” in Spanish. Recently, I’ve started having coffee chats with my Deaf friend, Jeremy, because I know that immersion works—and it’s the best way for me to learn American Sign Language.

Even though we’re not kings, the principle still applies. Listen to how Deuteronomy 17:18 frames it:

“When [the king] sits on the throne of his kingdom, he shall write for himself in a book a copy of this law, approved by the Levitical priests.”

That’s immersion! Just like we’re walking through Scripture together now, the kings of Israel were expected to make a copy of the Law. That’s how a person learns the language and culture of God’s kingdom.

One theme that stood out and is seen throughout Scripture—I often say at Kapahulu Bible Church—is this: “We must be a people who are desperately dependent on God for all things.” In Deuteronomy 20:5–8, we see that desperate dependency nurtured in the instructions Israel is given before battle:

“Is there any man who has built a new house and not dedicated it? …planted a vineyard and not enjoyed its fruit? …betrothed a wife and not taken her? …fearful and fainthearted? Let him go back to his house…”

Why allow soldiers to return home for these reasons? Because it was—and still is—important for God’s people to understand that our victory does not rest on our strength—it comes from the Lord. The message is clear: God wins the battle, not us.

If God could turn back the Philistines with one shepherd boy named David, how much more could He do with a nation—or a church—fully dependent on Him?

When we immerse ourselves in God’s Word, we begin to understand that the pressure to thrive doesn’t rest on us. As His children, He takes care of His own when we trust Him fully.

Takeaway: Victory belongs to the Lord. Whether in battle or in daily life, God honors those who trust in Him. Immersion in His Word shapes our hearts, reminds us who truly fights for us, and strengthens our dependence on Him. Be in His Word. Rely on His strength. And watch what He can do when you surrender fully. Hosanna! Lord, save us—we look to You.