This warning has proved prophetic in that Israel did apostatize and experience all the consequences Moses warned against here. The nation's present scattered condition as a result of her dispersion by the Romans is only one of several scatterings that Israel has experienced (v. 27).
Moses predicted a turning back to the Lord (v. 30). This has yet to take place during Israel's present dispersion, but it will happen (Zech. 12:10).
Yahweh is a holy judge who zealously yearns for the welfare of His chosen people (v. 24), but if they turn from Him and He disciplines them He will have compassion on them (cf. 6:5; 10:12; 11:13; 26:16; 30:2, 6, 10). The promise that God would not fail or destroy His people or forget His covenant with them indicates the extent of His love for Israel (Rom. 11:1).