Knowing that the Israelites would be entering the promised land, Moses warned them. Do not think that you enter the promised land due to your righteousness. Moses reminded them of their earlier sins when they worshipped the Golden Calf and rebelled against the LORD when told to attack the giants. On both occasions, Moses had to lay prostrate before the LORD for forty days and nights for God’s anger to subside.

Why did Moses say that? Did he say it to take credit? The two occasions had nothing to do with the present group of Israelites. They were committed by the earlier generation, who had all passed on.

The simple reason was in any of the occasions, God could have destroyed their forefather immediately, and thus, they would not have a chance to enter the promised land. Secondly, God allowed Moses to prostrate before Him for forty days and nights to show the people the severity of the problem. Thirdly, even though the sins were committed by their forefather, they should realise that they were capable of making the same mistake. In conclusion, Moses wanted the Israelites to enter the promised land with gratitude instead of achievement.

Why is this so important? The sense of gratitude will help the individual appreciate the achievements with thanksgiving and joy. In contrast, the sense of accomplishment will only give rise to pride. Besides, the sense of gratitude will help us to love God better. In comparison, the sense of accomplishment builds oneself up.

Let us be more sensitive to how God has been helping us than the achievements. Know that every achievement is the grace of God.

May God’s grace be with all of us from now till evermore.