Catholic Public Domain Version
Deuteronomy 9:27
“Remember your servants, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Do not look upon the stubbornness of this people, nor upon their wickedness and sinfulness.”
Verse Explanation
A saved explanation for Deuteronomy 9:27.
Plain-language explanation
Moses asks God to remember the promises made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. He urges Israel not to focus on their own faults or on the people’s stubbornness, but to trust that God’s mercy and covenant love will sustain them despite their sin.
Catholic context
Many Catholics read this as a reminder that God’s faithfulness comes before human merit. God’s “remembering” points to His covenant mercy—seen fully in the New Covenant promised in Christ—where salvation is ultimately grounded in God’s initiative and kindness, not in our ability to be perfect.
Historical background
This verse sits in Moses’ plea for Israel after the people have been deeply unfaithful. In Deuteronomy 9, Moses is explaining that Israel’s history includes serious wrongdoing, and yet God had bound Himself to them through the patriarchs. Moses is effectively saying: “Lord, don’t treat them only by what they deserve—remember Your promises.”
Reflection
It can be easy to feel trapped by our failures or to despair when we see stubbornness in ourselves or others. This verse invites a different posture: bring the reality of sin to God, but hold on to the truth that God is still merciful and faithful to His word.
Practical takeaway
When you’re discouraged by your own weakness, start by asking God to “remember”—to renew your hope in His promises. Also, avoid the temptation to wallow in blame; instead, respond with repentance and a sincere willingness to change.
Prayer
Lord God, remember Your servants Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and in Your mercy remember me. Look not on my stubbornness or sinfulness, but on Your faithful love. Give me a contrite heart, strengthen my resolve to do what is right, and lead me always in Your ways. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.