READ: Deut. 8:7-20: then you say in your heart, ‘My power and the might of my hand have gained me this wealth.’
The journey through the wilderness was continuous education from the LORD, like a man teaching his son obedience (v. 5). They were never to forget that journey. Otherwise, they would also forget the LORD Himself. Their dependence during the journey caused them to direct their hearts to the LORD.
But would such dedication continue when they came to the good land and lived in abundance and prosperity? Would they then live with and for God and resist the idolatry of the heathens? God’s guidance aimed to enable them to reach the good land, where they would lack nothing. Thus, God would keep His oath to the patriarchs (v.18). After much testing, He would indeed make them prosperous (v. 16). Then they would enjoy their blessings fully, with the aim of praising the LORD God for that good land and for the strength He gave them to become rich (v. 10,18).
But what if they forgot all of that? If they even exalted their hearts against God and forgot Him (v.14)? What if they said, “My own strength and the power of my hand have made me rich” (v.17), and completely forgot God and even went after other gods to serve and bow down to them (v.19)? In that case, God would cause them to perish, just as the heathens before their eyes would be destroyed. Here, God’s loving care, faith education, and warning come together.
He also speaks to us as a loving Father. He makes us rich in faith, giving us His Son as Savior. He wants to bring us through suffering to glory. Let us continue to expect everything from Him, direct our lives and service towards Him, and give Him thanks and praise in everything, whether we are currently experiencing difficulties or doing well.
Can you compare the journey through the wilderness to your own life?
Singing: Ps. 147:4