Deuteronomy 8: This was all a test

Synopsis:

We are now reminded about all the suffering that occurred over the past 40 years in the desert. This, we are told, was a test to make sure only those whose hearts were pure would enter the Promised Land. Everyone else who suffered and died, apparently did so because they weren't holy enough. But you .... you all are the elite and will get a land that is amazing to behold.

In other words

Everyone is told that they are special and deserve to enter this new land.  How do we know they are special? Everyone else died.

Favorite bit:

The entire chapter.  You know all that suffering we went through and the whole eating of manna thing that was so annoying? Yeah, that was done on purpose to humble you and prepare you for entry into this wondrous new land you are getting.

2nd favorite bit:

Deuteronomy 8: 7-10 – I love how a rosy picture is painted for us about what this new land is going to be like. There are brooks, water and fountains, wheat, barley, vines, fig trees and pomegranates. It is a land of oil and honey. You shall be able to eat without scarceness and you will not lack for anything. (Deuteronomy 8:9)

Least favorite bit:

That not only is this all a lie, it’s a lie that has been causing continued conflict over this very land for millennium.

Moral Lesson Learned: 

If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is (Deuteronomy 8)