As we read through Deuteronomy we arrive at a challenging passage.

But to this very day the Lord has not given you an understanding mind, perceptive eyes, or discerning ears!  

Deut 29:4 (NET)

What makes it challenging?

Taking that passage literally, it says that God has not given the Israelites the ability to understand, perceive nor discern something. Further, He has been withholding the ability to understand it, whatever it might be, up to that very day.

Reading this, there are at least three questions that should immediately come to mind.

• What is it that God is not giving the Israelites an ability to understand, perceive and discern?
• Is this something the Israelites are only able to understand if God gives them an ability to perceive it?
• What is the historical context of the day on which this is spoken and what has occurred before the statement is made?