8
At that time the LORD set the tribe of Levi apart. He appointed them to carry the ark of the covenant of the Lord. He wanted them to serve him. He told them to bless the people in his name. And they still do it today.
9
That's why the Levites don't have any part of the land the LORD gave the other tribes in Israel. They don't have any share among them. The LORD himself is their share. That's what the LORD your God told them.
10
I had stayed on the mountain for 40 days and nights, just as I did the first time. The LORD listened to me that time also. He didn't want to destroy you.
11
"Go," the LORD said to me. "Lead the people on their way. Then they can enter the land and take it over. I have taken an oath. I promised I would give the land to their fathers. I promised it to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob."
Have Respect for the LORD
12 And now, Israel, what is the LORD your God asking you to do? Have respect for him. Live exactly as he wants you to live. Love him. Serve him with all your heart and with all your soul.
13
Obey the LORD's commands and rules. I'm giving them to you today for your own good.
14
The heavens belong to the LORD your God. Even the highest heavens belong to him. He owns the earth and everything in it.
15
But the LORD loved your people very much long ago. You are their children. And he chose you above all of the other nations. His love and his promise remain with you to this very day.
16
So don't let your hearts be stubborn anymore. Obey the Lord.
17
The LORD your God is the greatest God of all. He is the greatest Lord of all. He is the great God. He is mighty and wonderful. He treats everyone the same. He doesn't accept any money from those who want special favors.
18
He stands up for widows and for children whose fathers have died. He loves outsiders. He gives them food and clothes.