Moses reminded the Israelites of the commands and laws God had given, instructing them to obey these when they entered the land across the Jordan. He told them that by keeping God's commands, they and their children would live long and prosper in the land flowing with milk and honey, just as the Lord had promised their ancestors.
He declared, "The Lord our God is one. Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and strength." These words were to remain in their hearts, spoken to their children, discussed at home and on the road, morning and night. They were to tie them as symbols on their hands, bind them on their foreheads, and write them on their doorposts and gates as constant reminders.
Moses warned them not to forget the Lord when they entered the land with cities they did not build, houses filled with good things they did not provide, wells they did not dig, and vineyards and olive trees they did not plant. They were to fear and serve only the Lord, never following other gods, for He is a jealous God who would destroy them if they turned away.
He reminded them not to test God as their ancestors did at Massah but to do what is right and good in His sight. If they obeyed, the Lord would drive out their enemies and fulfill His promise.
And when their children asked why they followed these laws, they were to tell them: "We were once slaves in Egypt, but the Lord delivered us with mighty signs and wonders. He brought us out to give us this land. Therefore, He commanded us to obey Him so we may live and prosper — and our obedience will be our righteousness."