Moses addresses the people in preparation for the transfer of leadership. He knows that his life is near the end. He is keenly aware that his sins have kept him from entering the land of Caanan, the Promised Land. Any yet in many of his statements, he seems to be transferring the blame away from himself and on the people. He seems to have forgotten the "striking of the rock" incident. In fact many of Moses' words seem to be in contrast to what is recorded earlier. Check out Deuteronomy 1:19-25 and compare with Numbers 13.

In his first address, Moses mentions that when they camped at Horeb they were only 11 days out from the Promised Land, and yet it took them 40 years, because of their disobedience and lack of trust. The words of the old hymn Trust and Obey come to mind.

Moses gives the people a history of their nation, their relationship with God and their purpose in the conquest of the land. God's plan was for the people to take the land regardless of what they found there.

Moses reminded the people to obey God's laws, to teach them to their children, to stay away from idols. Good advice for us today too!

“Do not be afraid of them; the Lord your God himself will fight for you.”
When God says He has given us victory, CLAIM IT. TRUST HIM!