Book of Deuteronomy - Chapter 4 - Verse 21

In this verse from the book of Deuteronomy, Moses is recounting to the Israelites how the LORD was angry with him for their sake. This punishment was a consequence of Moses disobeying a direct command from God. The Israelites had provoked God's anger with their disobedience, and as their leader, Moses bore the consequences of their actions. As a result, God swore that Moses would not be allowed to enter the promised land of Canaan, which He had promised to give to the Israelites as their inheritance.

This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of obedience and faithfulness to God's commands. It also highlights the interconnectedness of the Israelites as a community, where the actions of one individual can have consequences for the entire group. Despite Moses' faithful leadership and his dedication to leading the Israelites out of Egypt, his moment of disobedience led to a significant punishment. This serves as a cautionary tale for believers, reminding them of the need to remain steadfast in their faith and obedience to God's will.

This verse from Deuteronomy 4:21 highlights the consequences Moses faced for disobeying God. The phrase "the LORD was angry with me for your sakes" indicates that Moses' punishment was not solely for his own actions but also for the benefit of the Israelites. The idea that God's actions are often for the greater good of His people is a common theme throughout the Bible. By swearing that Moses would not be able to enter the promised land, God was teaching a lesson to the Israelites about the importance of obedience and faithfulness. The mention of the Jordan River symbolizes the boundary between the wilderness and the land of Canaan, which represents the ultimate destination of God's chosen people. The phrase "that good land, which the LORD thy God giveth thee for an inheritance" emphasizes God's promise and provision for His people, even when they fall short. Overall, this verse serves as a powerful reminder of God's justice, mercy, and faithfulness to His people.