Deuteronomy 10:12-22
Why would God set so many restrictions on humanity, especially on those whom God had chosen to be a holy nation? Why would God be so insistent about how things were to be done? These are questions that sometimes get asked in light of the many commandments and laws that God established? Is it all somehow for God’s benefit? Our reading from Deuteronomy for today offers clear insight into God’s actions. “…(K)eep the commandments of the Lord your God,” it says, “and his decrees that I am commanding you today, for your own well-being” (Deuteronomy 10:13, my italics).
It may be difficult for us to understand all the factors that lie behind the various laws, but the ultimate purpose of God’s decrees was to safeguard the lives of God’s people and to maintain a community in relationship to God. Dietary restrictions, laws concerning care for the poor, setting aside a day for rest, forbidding the worship of idols and other gods all aid in creating a better life for God’s people. When they failed to live according to God’s wishes the people of Isreal encountered trouble. When they followed the law they found life to be more joy-filled.
The ultimate test of God’s intentions comes in the death of Jesus Christ. That God was willing to take death into God’s own being for our sake is all the evidence we need of God’s love. As my wife says, “It’s easier if we will just to do things God’s way to begin with.” She’s right. Life is better when we accept God’s gracious guidance. It really is for our own good.
Prayer: Lord, help us to live according to our will and in keeping with your intentions, that we have find well-being, and may care for those around us. Amen.
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