THEOSISVissarion (Nechaev)
To truly grasp the significance of these words, one must consider them alongside the preceding part of the same verse - ‘Whosoever the tongue is so great, unto him is God that draweth nigh unto him, howbeit.’ Moses presents the Hebrews with a renewed motivation for their faithfulness to the commandments, emphasizing that the Lord, who imparted them, maintains a deep connection with His people and actively engages in their needs, responding whenever they seek His assistance. The Lord is near to all who invoke Him, to all who call upon Him in sincerity (Psalm 144:18). In this regard, the deities of surrounding nations cannot begin to compare to the one true God.
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They are lifeless idols, unhearing to the pleas of their followers; having eyes, they see not, and having ears, they hear not (Psalms 134:16). The misguided influences of their priests alone kept these worshippers under the illusion of divine support. Therefore, the chosen nation, aware of their distinct advantage over other peoples, who lacked such righteous laws and a compassionate, omnipotent God, must have found a compelling reason to adhere to His commandments. How could they disregard such wise and life-giving statutes? How could they resist the Lawgiver who attentively hears and meets the needs of those who call out to Him?