Old Testament
Deuteronomy 31:20
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
When I bring them into the land I promised their ancestors, a land flowing with milk and honey, they will eat until they are full and grow fat. Then they will turn to other gods and serve them, provoking me and breaking my covenant.
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For when I shall have brought them into the land which I sware unto their fathers, that floweth with milk and honey; and they shall have eaten and filled themselves, and waxen fat; then will they turn unto other gods, and serve them, and provoke me, and break my covenant.
What Deuteronomy 31:20 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, God speaks about a future time when the people will enter a beautiful land, rich and abundant, just as He promised their ancestors. They will enjoy the blessings of this land, eating until they are satisfied and becoming prosperous. However, God warns that this abundance may lead them to forget Him. Instead of being grateful, they might turn to other gods, abandoning their commitment to Him. This betrayal would provoke God’s anger and break the special relationship He has with them. The message highlights the danger of losing sight of what truly matters when life is good. It serves as a reminder to stay faithful and remember the source of our blessings, even in times of abundance. The passage encourages us to reflect on our priorities and ensure that we remain devoted to what is truly important in our lives, avoiding distractions that can lead us away from our commitments and values. Ultimately, it’s about maintaining a heart of gratitude and loyalty.
How to apply Deuteronomy 31:20 to your life
In our own lives, we can easily become distracted by success and comfort. It’s important to regularly reflect on our values and priorities. Make time to express gratitude for your blessings and stay connected to what truly matters. This will help you remain grounded and faithful in your commitments to yourself and others. Remember to nurture your relationships and values, especially during prosperous times. Stay aware of what can lead you astray.
Curated for this public verse page. Deuteronomy Summary
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Illustrated scene from Moses's story: “Be Strong and Courageous” (Deuteronomy 31:1–23)
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Moses
Photo: Bukvoed, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 4.0. Source. Location: Burj Beitin, Beitin, Ramallah and al-Bireh Governorate, West Bank. Resized for the web.
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Bethel
Where Jacob dreamed of a stairway to heaven and met God.
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Keep studying Deuteronomy 31:20
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At a Glance — the Book of Deuteronomy
- Author
- Traditionally attributed to Moses
- Written
- Around 1400 BC
- Genre
- Law (Pentateuch)
- Original Audience
- The Israelites about to enter the Promised Land
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Deuteronomy 31:20 mean?
Deuteronomy 31:20 warns that when the Israelites enter the promised land and experience abundance, they may forget God and turn to other gods. This passage highlights the risk of losing faithfulness in times of prosperity.
What is the meaning of 'land flowing with milk and honey' in Deuteronomy 31:20?
The phrase 'land flowing with milk and honey' symbolizes a rich and fertile land, representing God's blessings and abundance for His people. It signifies the prosperity that awaits the Israelites in the promised land.
How does Deuteronomy 31:20 relate to idolatry?
Deuteronomy 31:20 connects to idolatry by showing that prosperity can lead people to turn away from God and worship other gods. This serves as a caution against allowing material success to distract from spiritual commitments.
What lesson can we learn from Deuteronomy 31:20?
The lesson from Deuteronomy 31:20 is to remain faithful and grateful, especially during prosperous times. It encourages us to reflect on our priorities and avoid distractions that can lead us away from our core values.
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