Deuteronomy 32:39

See now that I, even I, am he, and there is no god with me: I kill, and I make alive; I wound, and I heal: neither is there any that can deliver out of my hand.

Deuteronomy 32:39 stands in the song of Deuteronomy 32:1-43 that recounts God's dealings with Israel. Moses was commanded to frame that song from those dealings and to teach it to Israel's children, so that parents could teach it to their children and the whole story could be repeated when children inquired. The history was thus to be preserved as a lasting reminder, set up as a waymark and memorial to be kept in sight and often repeated. Its purpose was to keep in mind God's providential dealings and His marked goodness and mercy in His care and deliverance of His people.

The verse declares that God alone has sovereign power over life and death, wounding and healing, and deliverance. There is no other god or power with Him, and neither is there any that can deliver out of His hand. In the song this declaration stands with His judgment on His unfaithful people and His vengeance on enemies, alongside His promise to be merciful to His land and to His people.

The song presents God as the Fountain of life and power who can make the wilderness a fruitful field for the people who keep His commandments for the glory of His name. What He has done for His chosen people should inspire every heart with thanksgiving and with joy and gladness. He desires His obedient children to claim His blessing and to come before Him with praise and thanksgiving.

The song also points forward to future events, including the final victory of the faithful when Christ returns in power and glory. The hand of God that has been strong to save will be strong to destroy when the Lord's appointed time comes if proud, ambitious human beings have no change of heart. No earthly power can stay His hand, and no building material can preserve buildings from destruction when the time comes to send retribution for insolence and disregard of His law.

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