30:1-6 The theme of verses 1-6 is frequently found in the writings of the prophets. Although the Israelites will be punished for their sin, made captives, and exiled to distant lands, God will let them return one day to their homeland. This prediction was fulfilled in part when many Israelites returned from 70 years of captivity in Babylon (Ezra 1–2). It will be fulfilled completely at the second coming of Jesus Christ. Then all believers, Jews and non-Jews, will be gathered from the ends of the earth to worship Christ in his new Kingdom.
30:1-6 Moses told the Hebrews that when they were ready to return to God, he would be ready to receive them. God’s mercy is unbelievable. It goes far beyond what we can imagine. Even if the Jews deliberately walked away from him and ruined their lives, God would still take them back. God would give them inward spiritual renewal. God wants to forgive us and bring us back to himself, too. Some people will not learn this until their world has crashed in around them. Then the sorrow and pain seem to open their eyes to what God has been saying all along. Are you separated from God by sin? No matter how far you have wandered, God promises a fresh beginning if only you will turn to him.
30:11-14 God has called us to keep his commands, while reminding us that his laws are not hidden from us or beyond our reach. Have you ever said you would obey God if you knew what he wanted? Have you ever complained that obedience is too difficult for a mere human? These are unacceptable excuses. God’s laws are written in the Bible and are clearly evident in the world around us. Obeying them is reasonable, sensible, and beneficial. The most difficult part of obeying God’s laws is simply deciding to start now. Paul refers to this passage in Romans 10:5-8.
30:19, 20 Moses challenged Israel to choose life, to obey God, and therefore to continue to experience his blessings. God doesn’t force his will on anyone. He lets us decide whether to follow him or reject him. This decision, however, is a life-or-death matter. God wants us to realize this, for he would like us all to choose life. Daily, in each new situation, we must affirm and reinforce this commitment.