NOTES for Deu 26:16-19

In this brief passage we are given the simple essence of the covenant between man and God. Strive to carry out the commandments God has given with all your heart and all your soul. Do not deceive yourself; truly strive. What is promised to you for this is not a sweet or a monument for good behavior. If you seek God with all your heart, you will be His people. There is no bargaining here—“you give me this, I give you that”—no obligations and no demands. There is only one clearly defined choice: seek God with all your soul, and He will be your God. You will be with Him always, if only you desire it.