“Furthermore the Lord was angry with me for your sakes and sware that I should not go over Jordan and that I should not go in unto that good land which the Lord thy God giveth thee for an inheritance.”
Context: The book of Deuteronomy is part of the Pentateuch (the first five books of the Bible), and it primarily contains Moses’ farewell address to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land. In this chapter, Moses reminds the people of Israel of God’s commandments, the importance of obedience, and the consequences of disobedience.
Moses’ Experience: In this verse, Moses is recounting the time when God was angry with him. The phrase “the Lord was angry with me for your sakes” refers to an incident that occurred at the waters of Meribah (Numbers 20:1-13). Moses struck the rock twice instead of speaking to it as God had instructed, and as a result, God decreed that Moses would not enter the Promised Land.
God’s Judgment: The verse reveals that God’s anger was directed at Moses because of the people’s sake. Although the Israelites had repeatedly tested God’s patience and faithfulness during their wilderness journey, God’s decision to exclude Moses from entering the Promised Land was a significant consequence for his disobedience. It highlights the principle that leaders bear a great responsibility for their actions and the impact those actions have on the people they lead.
The Promised Land: Moses also mentions that he was not allowed to cross the Jordan River and enter the “good land” that God had promised to give the Israelites as their inheritance. This land was described as flowing with milk and honey, a prosperous and fertile land. Moses’ exclusion from entering this land served as a sobering reminder of the consequences of disobedience, even for someone as esteemed as Moses.
Lessons and Applications:
- Obedience to God: The verse underscores the importance of obedience to God’s commands. It teaches us that even those in positions of leadership and authority are accountable to God for their actions. It is a reminder that disobedience can have significant consequences, both for ourselves and for those we lead.
- God’s Justice and Holiness: The verse reflects God’s justice and holiness. Despite Moses’ close relationship with God and his instrumental role in leading the Israelites, God’s judgment was impartial and upheld His righteous standards. It reminds us that God’s justice is always rooted in His perfect character.
- Grace and Forgiveness: Although Moses was barred from entering the Promised Land, God still demonstrated His mercy and grace by allowing Moses to see the land from a distance before his death. Even in discipline, God’s love and mercy are evident.
- Leadership and Accountability: The verse serves as a reminder to leaders of their accountability to God and the impact their actions can have on those they lead. Leaders should strive to lead with humility, obedience, and integrity, seeking God’s guidance in their decision-making.
Overall, Deuteronomy 4:21 provides valuable insights into the consequences of disobedience, the justice and holiness of God, and the importance of leadership and accountability. It encourages us to live in obedience to God’s commands, recognizing the weight of our actions and their impact on both ourselves and those around us.
