◄ Deuteronomy 20 ►
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Laws of Warfare 1When you go out to war against your enemies and see horses, chariots, and an army larger than yours, do not be afraid of them; for the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, is with you. 2When you are about to go into battle, the priest is to come forward and address the army, 3saying to them, “Hear, O Israel, today you are going into battle with your enemies. Do not be fainthearted or afraid; do not be alarmed or terrified because of them. 4For the LORD your God goes with you to fight for you against your enemies, to give you the victory.” 5Furthermore, the officers are to address the army, saying, “Has any man built a new house and not dedicated it? Let him return home, or he may die in battle and another man dedicate it. 6Has any man planted a vineyard and not begun to enjoy its fruit? Let him return home, or he may die in battle and another man enjoy its fruit. 7Has any man become pledged to a woman and not married her? Let him return home, or he may die in battle and another man marry her.” 8Then the officers shall speak further to the army, saying, “Is any man afraid or fainthearted? Let him return home, so that the hearts of his brothers will not melt like his own.” 9When the officers have finished addressing the army, they are to appoint commanders to lead it. 10When you approach a city to fight against it, you are to make an offer of peace. 11If they accept your offer of peace and open their gates, all the people there will become forced laborers to serve you. 12But if they refuse to make peace with you and wage war against you, lay siege to that city. 13When the LORD your God has delivered it into your hand, you must put every male to the sword. 14But the women, children, livestock, and whatever else is in the city—all its spoil—you may take as plunder, and you shall use the spoil of your enemies that the LORD your God gives you. 15This is how you are to treat all the cities that are far away from you and do not belong to the nations nearby. 16However, in the cities of the nations that the LORD your God is giving you as an inheritance, you must not leave alive anything that breathes. 17For you must devote them to complete destructiona —the Hittites, Amorites, Canaanites, Perizzites, Hivites, and Jebusites—as the LORD your God has commanded you, 18so that they cannot teach you to do all the detestable things they do for their gods, and so cause you to sin against the LORD your God. 19When you lay siege to a city for an extended time while fighting against it to capture it, you must not destroy its trees by putting an axe to them, because you can eat their fruit. You must not cut them down. Are the trees of the field human, that you should besiege them? 20But you may destroy the trees that you know do not produce fruit. Use them to build siege works against the city that is waging war against you, until it falls. Footnotes: 17 a Forms of the Hebrew cherem refer to the giving over of things or persons to the LORD, either by destroying them or by giving them as an offering. Berean Standard Bible (BSB) printed 2016, 2020, 2022, 2025 by Bible Hub and Berean.Bible. Produced in cooperation with Bible Hub, Discovery Bible, unfoldingWord, Bible Aquifer, OpenBible.com, and the Berean Bible Translation Committee. This text of God's Word has been dedicated to the public domain. Free downloads and unlimited usage available. See also the Berean Literal Bible and Berean Interlinear Bible. Bible Hub Deuteronomy 20 Summary Laws of Warfare Verses 1–4 – Assurance in Battle Israel is reminded that the size and technology of enemy armies—horses, chariots, and numbers—do not decide the outcome. “For the LORD your God, who brought you up out of Egypt, is with you” (v 1). Before fighting, the priest speaks courage into the ranks, declaring that the battle belongs to God and He “goes with you to fight for you against your enemies, to give you the victory” (v 4). Verses 5–9 – The Exemptions Three groups are released from duty: a man who has built a house but not dedicated it, one who has planted a vineyard but not enjoyed its first fruit, and one who is engaged to a woman but not yet married her. A fourth exemption lets anyone “afraid or fainthearted” return home so that fear will not spread. Officers implement these rules, showing God’s concern for life milestones and unit morale. Verses 10–18 – Terms of Peace and Total Destruction Cities “far away” receive an offer of peace; if they accept, they become tribute-paying laborers. If they refuse, Israel may lay siege. Canaanite cities, however, are placed “under the ban” and must be fully destroyed so that Israel will not learn their detestable practices. This sharp distinction guards Israel’s worship and identity. Verses 19–20 – Protecting the Trees Even in siege, Israel must spare fruit trees: “For is the tree of the field a man, that it should be besieged by you?” (v 19). Non-food trees may be cut for siege works, but food-producing trees are preserved, revealing ecological restraint amid conflict. Deuteronomy 20 delves into the instructions given to the Israelites regarding warfare. In this chapter, a profound trust in God's leadership, protection, and justice is underscored. The passage uniquely marries the grim realities of war with a deep concern for ethics, humanity, and reverence for God’s creation. ________________________________________ Historical Setting and Warfare in the Late Bronze Age Israel stood on the eastern side of the Jordan in roughly the 15th–13th century BC, facing fortified Canaanite city-states armed with chariots (Joshua 17:16; Judges 4:3). Chariotry signaled a professional army, yet God says, “Do not be afraid” (20:1), echoing Exodus 14:13 and 2 Chronicles 20:15. Ancient Near-Eastern treaties often invoked national gods to bless war, but Israel’s covenant uniquely ties victory to obedience rather than superior weaponry. The Role of the Priest and Officials The priest’s pep talk (vv 2-4) mirrors Numbers 10:9 and 2 Samuel 7:3, blending worship and warfare. Military leadership is spiritual first, strategic second. Officers then manage exemptions (vv 5-9), much like a chain of command today. Fear spreads quickly (Judges 7:3), so God removes it at the source. Compassionate Exemptions: God’s Care for Ordinary Life 1. New house: Dedication included prayer (Deuteronomy 6:9) and a family celebration. 2. New vineyard: Fruit was untouchable for three years (Leviticus 19:23-25), so missing the first harvest felt like loss of promise. 3. Engagement: A year between betrothal and marriage (Deuteronomy 24:5) ensured family stability. 4. Fearful hearts: God values quality over quantity (1 Samuel 14:6). These rules honor everyday joys and responsibilities, showing war is never meant to swallow normal life. Holy War and the Ban (Devoted to Destruction) Canaanite cities (vv 16-18) faced total destruction (Hebrew herem). Genesis 15:16 said their sin had to “reach its full measure.” By Joshua’s day their culture included child sacrifice (Deuteronomy 12:31), ritual prostitution, and divination. The ban is judicial, not racial. Rahab and the Gibeonites prove repentance opens mercy (Joshua 2; 9). Cities Far Away: Offer of Peace and the Ethics of Siege Warfare International custom allowed vassal treaties; Israel’s offer (v 11) reflects ANE diplomacy but tempers it: forced labor replaces annihilation. Rage is restricted, not unleashed. 2 Kings 6:22 later shows Elisha forbidding execution of a captured Aramean army, extending mercy further. Trees in Wartime: Environmental Wisdom Cutting food trees jeopardizes future harvests and life itself. God teaches stewardship even while assaulting walls. This principle foreshadows prophetic visions of peace where vines and figs symbolize security (Micah 4:4; Zechariah 3:10). Archaeological Notes • Chariot hubs and bronze fittings found at Hazor match the “horses and chariots” fear (v 1). • Four-room Israelite houses unearthed at Shiloh and Beersheba illustrate the new homeowners in v 5. • Wine presses carved into bedrock across the Shephelah attest to vineyards (v 6). • Assyrian records describe non-fruit trees stripped for siege ramps at Lachish (701 BC), a practice Deuteronomy 20 already regulates. Echoes Elsewhere in Scripture • Encouragement in battle: Joshua 1:9; Psalm 27:3. • Exemptions mirrored: Proverbs 24:27 (finish your work, build your house). • Devoted destruction applied: 1 Samuel 15 and Saul’s failure with Amalek. • Mercy to distant nations: Solomon’s trade alliances (1 Kings 9:20-21). • Protection of creation: Romans 8:21 anticipates a redeemed earth. Christ and the Larger Story Jesus speaks of counting the cost of war and building before starting (Luke 14:28-33), echoing Deuteronomy 20’s practical wisdom. He wins ultimate victory not by chariots but by the cross (Colossians 2:15), fulfilling the promise that God Himself fights for His people. The inclusiveness hinted at by spared outsiders blossoms in the gospel invitation to every nation (Matthew 28:19). Key Takeaways • Courage comes from God’s presence, not military strength. • Everyday responsibilities matter to God even during crises. • Justice and mercy guide Israel’s warfare, setting moral boundaries. • Creation care is woven into the fabric of God’s commands. • The chapter points forward to Christ, the true Captain who secures final peace. Connections to Additional Scriptures Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go. This verse echoes the assurance of God's presence in Deuteronomy 20. Psalm 46:1 God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble. This psalm reinforces the theme of divine support in adversity. Romans 12:18 If it is possible on your part, live at peace with everyone. This New Testament verse aligns with the call to pursue peace in Deuteronomy 20. Teaching Points Divine Assurance in Battle Deuteronomy 20:1 states, When you go out to war against your enemies and see horses and chariots and an army larger than yours, do not be afraid of them, for the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, is with you. This verse underscores the importance of relying on God's presence and past deliverance as a source of courage. Role of the Priest Verses 2-4 highlight the priest's role in encouraging the troops, reminding them of God's faithfulness and urging them not to fear. This reflects the spiritual leadership necessary in times of crisis. Exemptions from Battle Verses 5-9 provide exemptions for those who have built a new house, planted a vineyard, or are betrothed, as well as those who are fearful. This demonstrates God's compassion and understanding of human needs and fears. Offer of Peace In verses 10-12, God instructs the Israelites to offer peace to a city before engaging in battle, showing a preference for peaceful resolutions when possible. Rules of Engagement Verses 13-20 outline the treatment of conquered cities and the preservation of resources, emphasizing justice and stewardship even in warfare. Practical Applications Trust in God's Presence Just as the Israelites were encouraged to trust in God's presence, we too can find courage in knowing that God is with us in our battles, whether they are physical, emotional, or spiritual. Seek Spiritual Guidance The role of the priest in encouraging the troops highlights the importance of seeking spiritual guidance and encouragement from faith leaders in our own lives. Recognize Personal Limitations Understanding the exemptions from battle can remind us to recognize our own limitations and seek rest and renewal when needed. Pursue Peace The instruction to offer peace first encourages us to seek peaceful resolutions in our conflicts whenever possible. Exercise Justice and Stewardship The rules of engagement remind us to act justly and responsibly, even in challenging situations. People 1. The Priest The priest is instructed to approach and speak to the people before they go into battle. He is to encourage them not to be afraid, reminding them that the LORD their God is with them to fight for them and give them victory (Deuteronomy 20:2-4). 2. The Officers The officers are responsible for addressing the army and making proclamations to the people. They are to release certain individuals from battle, such as those who have built a new house, planted a vineyard, become engaged, or are fearful and fainthearted (Deuteronomy 20:5-9). 3. The Man Who Has Built a New House This person is allowed to return home so that he may dedicate his house, lest he die in battle and another man dedicate it (Deuteronomy 20:5). 4. The Man Who Has Planted a Vineyard This individual is permitted to return home to enjoy the fruit of his vineyard, lest he die in battle and another man enjoy it (Deuteronomy 20:6). 5. The Man Who Is Engaged to a Woman He is allowed to return home to marry his fiancée, lest he die in battle and another man marry her (Deuteronomy 20:7). 6. The Fearful and Fainthearted Man This person is permitted to return home so that he does not cause the hearts of his fellow soldiers to melt like his own (Deuteronomy 20:8). 7. The Enemy The chapter refers to the enemies of Israel, against whom they are to go to war. Specific instructions are given on how to approach cities and conduct warfare, including offering terms of peace and dealing with those who refuse (Deuteronomy 20:10-18). 8. The Women, Children, Livestock, and Everything Else in the City These are the spoils of war that the Israelites are allowed to take for themselves from cities that are far away and not among the cities of the nations that the LORD is giving them as an inheritance (Deuteronomy 20:14). In the original Hebrew text, terms like "priest" (כֹּהֵן, kohen) and "officers" (שֹׁטְרִים, shotrim) are used, reflecting their specific roles within the Israelite community. The chapter emphasizes the importance of faith and obedience to God's commands in the context of warfare. Places 1. General Instructions for Warfare The chapter begins with instructions on how the Israelites should conduct themselves when they go to war against their enemies. It emphasizes reliance on God for victory rather than on military strength. 2. Exemptions from Battle Certain individuals are exempted from battle, such as those who have built a new house, planted a vineyard, become engaged, or are fearful and fainthearted. 3. Approach to Cities The Israelites are instructed on how to approach cities they intend to attack. They are to offer terms of peace first, and if accepted, the people become forced labor. If peace is refused, they are to besiege the city. 4. Treatment of Distant Cities vs. Canaanite Cities There is a distinction between how to treat cities that are far away and those within the land of Canaan. The latter are to be completely destroyed to prevent the Israelites from adopting their detestable practices. 5. Preservation of Trees During a siege, the Israelites are instructed not to destroy fruit trees, as they provide food. Non-fruit trees can be used to build siege works. While Deuteronomy 20 does not list specific places, it provides a framework for understanding the conduct of warfare from a biblical perspective, emphasizing obedience to God's commands and ethical considerations even in times of conflict. Events 1. Encouragement Before Battle The Israelites are instructed not to fear their enemies when they go to war, as God is with them. The priests are to reassure the people: "When you go out to war against your enemies and see horses and chariots and an army greater than yours, do not be afraid of them, for the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, is with you" (Deuteronomy 20:1). The Hebrew root for "fear" (יָרֵא, yare) emphasizes reverence and awe, reminding the Israelites of God's power. 2. Role of the Priest The priest is to address the army, offering words of encouragement and reminding them of God's presence: "He shall say to them, 'Hear, O Israel, today you are going into battle against your enemies. Do not be fainthearted or afraid; do not be alarmed or terrified because of them'" (Deuteronomy 20:3). The Hebrew term for "fainthearted" (רַךְ, rak) suggests a softness or weakness that is countered by faith in God. 3. Exemptions from Battle Certain men are exempt from battle, including those who have built a new house, planted a vineyard, become engaged, or are fearful: "The officers shall say to the army, 'Has anyone built a new house and not dedicated it? Let him go home, or he may die in battle and another man dedicate it'" (Deuteronomy 20:5). The Hebrew word for "dedicated" (חָנַךְ, chanak) implies a consecration or setting apart for a special purpose. 4. Appointment of Officers After exemptions are given, officers are appointed to lead the people: "Then the officers shall add, 'Is anyone afraid or fainthearted? Let him go home, so that the hearts of his brothers will not melt like his own'" (Deuteronomy 20:8). The Hebrew root for "melt" (מָסַס, masas) conveys the idea of dissolving or losing courage. 5. Terms of Peace When approaching a city to fight, the Israelites are to offer terms of peace first: "When you approach a city to fight against it, you are to make an offer of peace" (Deuteronomy 20:10). The Hebrew word for "peace" (שָׁלוֹם, shalom) encompasses completeness, welfare, and harmony. 6. Treatment of Conquered Cities If a city accepts peace, its people become forced laborers; if not, the city is besieged: "If they accept your offer of peace and open their gates, all the people there will become forced laborers to serve you" (Deuteronomy 20:11). The Hebrew term for "forced laborers" (מַס, mas) indicates a levy or tribute. 7. Destruction of Certain Nations Specific nations are to be completely destroyed to prevent idolatry: "However, in the cities of the nations the LORD your God is giving you as an inheritance, you must not leave alive anything that breathes" (Deuteronomy 20:16). The Hebrew root for "destroy" (חָרַם, charam) implies a devotion to destruction for a sacred purpose. 8. Preservation of Trees Fruit trees are to be preserved during a siege, as they provide sustenance: "When you lay siege to a city for a long time, fighting against it to capture it, do not destroy its trees by putting an ax to them, because you can eat their fruit" (Deuteronomy 20:19). The Hebrew word for "destroy" (שָׁחַת, shachat) means to ruin or corrupt, highlighting the importance of preserving life-giving resources. Lessons from Deuteronomy 20 1. Trust in God's Presence When facing battles, Deuteronomy 20:1 reminds us, "Do not be afraid of them, for the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, is with you." This verse encourages us to trust in God's presence in our lives. Just as He was with the Israelites, He is with us today, guiding and protecting us through our own challenges. Remember, you are never alone in your struggles. 2. Courage Over Fear The chapter emphasizes courage over fear. In Deuteronomy 20:3, the priest tells the people, "Do not be fainthearted or afraid; do not panic or be terrified by them." This is a call to face life's battles with bravery, knowing that God equips us with the strength we need. Fear can paralyze, but faith empowers us to move forward. 3. The Power of Faith Faith is a powerful tool in overcoming obstacles. Deuteronomy 20:4 assures us, "For the LORD your God is the One who goes with you to fight for you against your enemies, to give you victory." This verse highlights that our faith in God can lead to triumph over adversity. Trust in His promises and watch how He works in your life. 4. Prioritize Your Commitments In verses 5-7, the Israelites are instructed to prioritize their commitments, such as building a house, planting a vineyard, or marrying. This teaches us to focus on what truly matters in our lives. By aligning our priorities with God's will, we can live more fulfilling and purposeful lives. 5. Recognize When to Step Back Verse 8 advises those who are fearful to return home, "lest the hearts of his brothers melt like his own." This lesson teaches us the importance of recognizing when to step back and allow others to lead. Sometimes, stepping aside can be the most courageous act, allowing God's plan to unfold through others. 6. Seek Peace First Before engaging in battle, the Israelites were instructed to offer peace (Deuteronomy 20:10). This principle encourages us to seek peaceful resolutions in our conflicts. By prioritizing peace, we reflect God's love and grace, fostering harmony in our relationships and communities. 7. Understand the Consequences of Choices The chapter outlines the consequences of rejecting peace (verses 12-14). This serves as a reminder that our choices have consequences. By aligning our decisions with God's guidance, we can avoid unnecessary hardships and experience His blessings. 8. Protect and Preserve Deuteronomy 20:19-20 instructs the Israelites not to destroy fruit trees during a siege, teaching us the value of preservation. This lesson encourages us to protect and nurture the resources and relationships God has entrusted to us, ensuring they continue to bear fruit for His glory. 9. Obedience Brings Blessing Throughout the chapter, obedience to God's commands is emphasized. By following His instructions, the Israelites were assured of victory. This principle holds true today; obedience to God's Word brings blessings and aligns us with His perfect plan for our lives. 10. God's Sovereignty in All Things Finally, Deuteronomy 20 reminds us of God's sovereignty. He is in control of every situation, guiding us according to His divine purpose. Trusting in His sovereignty allows us to rest in His peace, knowing that He works all things for our good and His glory. Topics 1. Encouragement in Battle (Deuteronomy 20:1-4) This section provides assurance to the Israelites as they face their enemies. The passage emphasizes that God is with them, stating, "Do not be afraid of them, for the LORD your God, who brought you up out of the land of Egypt, is with you" (Deuteronomy 20:1). The Hebrew root for "afraid" (יָרֵא, yare) conveys a deep sense of fear or reverence, highlighting the need for trust in God's presence. 2. Exemptions from Military Service (Deuteronomy 20:5-9) Certain individuals are exempt from battle, including those who have built a new house, planted a vineyard, or are betrothed. The officers are instructed to say, "What man is there who has built a new house and has not dedicated it? Let him go and return to his house" (Deuteronomy 20:5). The Hebrew word for "dedicated" (חָנַךְ, chanak) implies a consecration or setting apart for a specific purpose. 3. Approach to Cities of Distant Nations (Deuteronomy 20:10-15) When approaching a city to fight, the Israelites are to offer terms of peace first. If accepted, the people become forced laborers. If not, the city is to be besieged. The text states, "When you approach a city to fight against it, you are to make an offer of peace" (Deuteronomy 20:10). The Hebrew term for "peace" (שָׁלוֹם, shalom) encompasses completeness, welfare, and harmony. 4. Treatment of Canaanite Cities (Deuteronomy 20:16-18) In contrast to distant cities, the cities of the Canaanites are to be completely destroyed. The command is clear: "You must devote them to complete destruction" (Deuteronomy 20:17). The Hebrew word for "devote" (חָרַם, charam) indicates a ban or dedication to destruction, often for religious purposes. 5. Preservation of Trees (Deuteronomy 20:19-20) During a siege, fruit trees are not to be cut down, as they provide food. The passage instructs, "Do not cut them down, for you can eat their fruit" (Deuteronomy 20:19). The Hebrew root for "cut down" (כָּרַת, karat) suggests a severing or cutting off, emphasizing the importance of preserving resources for sustenance. Themes 1. Divine Assurance in Battle Deuteronomy 20:1 emphasizes God's presence and assurance when facing enemies: "When you go out to war against your enemies and see horses and chariots and an army greater than yours, do not be afraid of them, for the LORD your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, is with you." The Hebrew root for "afraid" (יָרֵא, yare) underscores the call to trust in God's power rather than fear human strength. 2. Role of the Priest Verses 2-4 describe the priest's role in encouraging the Israelites before battle: "He shall say to them, 'Hear, O Israel, today you are going into battle against your enemies. Do not be fainthearted or afraid; do not be alarmed or terrified because of them.'" The priest serves as a spiritual leader, reminding the people of God's deliverance and presence. 3. Exemptions from Battle Verses 5-8 outline exemptions for those who have built a new house, planted a vineyard, betrothed a wife, or are fearful: "Is there any man who is afraid or fainthearted? Let him go back to his house, lest the heart of his brothers melt like his own." This reflects a compassionate understanding of personal circumstances and the importance of morale. 4. Appointment of Officers Verse 9 discusses the appointment of officers after exemptions are made: "When the officers have finished addressing the army, they are to appoint commanders over it." This theme highlights the importance of leadership and organization in preparing for battle. 5. Offer of Peace Verses 10-12 describe the protocol for offering peace to a city before attacking: "When you approach a city to fight against it, you are to make an offer of peace." This reflects a preference for peaceful resolution and the value of diplomacy. 6. Rules of Engagement Verses 13-14 provide instructions for dealing with cities that do not accept peace: "When the LORD your God delivers it into your hand, you must put every male to the sword." The rules of engagement emphasize obedience to God's commands in warfare. 7. Preservation of Trees Verses 19-20 instruct not to destroy fruit trees during a siege: "Do not cut them down. Are the trees of the field human, that you should besiege them?" This theme underscores the importance of preserving resources and respecting God's creation even in times of war. The Hebrew word for "destroy" (שָׁחַת, shachat) indicates a prohibition against unnecessary destruction. Prayer Points Pray for the courage to trust in God's presence and provision in the face of life's battles. Ask for wisdom and guidance from spiritual leaders and mentors. Seek God's peace and strength to pursue peaceful resolutions in conflicts. Pray for the ability to act justly and responsibly in all situations. Thank God for His faithfulness and past deliverance, using it as a foundation for future trust. Answering Tough Questions 1. How can a loving God command the complete destruction of entire cities, including women and children (Deuteronomy 20:16–17)? 2. If the historical conquest described lacks concrete archaeological evidence, does it undermine the credibility of Deuteronomy 20? 3. Why does this chapter prescribe total annihilation of certain nations, while other biblical texts call for mercy and justice (Deuteronomy 20:17–18)? 4. How can God’s people be told to offer terms of peace in one situation but show no mercy in another (Deuteronomy 20:10–18)? 5. How should we reconcile the war commands of Deuteronomy 20 with New Testament teachings on love and peacemaking? Bible Study Discussion Questions 1. How does the assurance from the priests mirror God's promises in our personal battles today? 2. Why do you think God provided specific exemptions from war? How does this demonstrate His concern for individual life stages? 3. How do the rules for distant cities reflect God’s mercy and justice? 4. What significance might there be in distinguishing the treatment of nearby cities from distant ones? 5. How does the command to spare fruit-bearing trees align with the broader themes of the Bible? 6. How can we apply the principle of preserving resources in today's context? 7. Why was there such a stark difference in dealing with men compared to women, children, and livestock in captured cities? 8. How do the instructions about warfare teach us about God's character? 9. In what ways can we offer "terms of peace" in our personal conflicts? 10. How can the balance between justice and mercy seen in this chapter be applied in modern situations? 11. What are the potential consequences of not setting apart what is deemed unholy, as illustrated by the instructions for nearby cities? 12. How do you handle situations where you are vastly outnumbered or outpowered, like the Israelites in battle? 13. How might we recognize when God is calling us to a battle versus when it's time to abstain or be exempt? 14. Why is it important to consider the long-term impacts (e.g., fruit-bearing trees) in our decisions today? 15. In what areas of your life are you being called to trust God's victory? 16. How do these wartime rules compare to modern rules of warfare? 17. How can we differentiate between battles we should fight and those we should avoid? 18. How do you reconcile the violent aspects of this chapter with the loving nature of God? 19. In what ways are you protecting the "fruit-bearing trees" in your life? 20. What strategies can we employ to remember God’s presence and assurance during personal struggles? Bible Hub Chapter Summaries and Bible Study Questions