Study Tip: Study Like a King

After checking Ezra's and Daniel's Bible study examples, this week we'll look at the model for kings.

In Deuteronomy, in some of Moses' final teachings to Israel, he gives the standard for future kings of Israel.

Also it shall be, when [the king] sits on the throne of his kingdom, that he shall write for himself a copy of this law in a book, from the one before the priests, the Levites. And it shall be with him, and he shall read it all the days of his life, that he may learn to fear the Lord his God and be careful to observe all the words of this law and these statutes, that his heart may not be lifted above his brethren, that he may not turn aside from the commandment to the right hand or to the left, and that he may prolong his days in his kingdom, he and his children in the midst of Israel. Deuteronomy 17:18-20

Did you catch those details?
1. Write out a copy – longhand.
2. Keep it close.
3. Read it every single day

Moses then lists several reasons and benefits for the king if he follows this program.
1. He'll learn to fear God
2. He'll be careful to obey it God's laws. If he knows the law by heart, he won't deviate from it.
3. He won't think he's better than his subjects.
4. His reign will be extended, and his children will succeed him.

Sadly, the Old Testament history books show that few of the kings took Moses' advice.

Do you think the model is still valid?