Moses begins recalling in Israel's hearing the events that lead them to the place in which they found themselves: on the brink of entering the land promised to them by God so many years ago. He reminds them of the promises made and kept by a faithful God; he brings to their recall the responses they themselves had to God's goodness - the doubt and fear that lead to their wandering throughout the desert wilderness for 40 years. He rehearsed to them the continued goodness of God in providing for them while they were being disciplined; allowing them to be well-fed and victorious in battle. He reminded them that he himself was subject to this discipline and would not be going into the promised provision of land. This was no ordinary retirement speech; this was the beginning of a great challenge to the nation to do what was right in spite of their past failings and their present feelings in inadequacy. The challenge to do right is timeless. Would they obey?
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