Do you see God’s commands as gifts? That’s really what they are, even if the devil wants us to believe the commands are given to restrict our freedom and happiness.
Take for example the command, “Do not be anxious about anything.” Is there a more needed and hopeful commandment for young people today? Anxiety is so destructive; many are consumed by it. But like all of God’s commands, this one comes with the grace that enables us to obey. It means that God’s command to be anxious for nothing is really a gift enabling us to experience the peace of Jesus that “surpasses all understanding.”
Or consider the command to be holy as God is holy. When we flee from the filth and corruption characterizing this world, we experience a joy and freedom far greater than the passing pleasures of anything the world can offer us. Certainly you have tasted that already, right? What a gift!
How about commands like humbly bringing someone’s sin to their attention or loving your enemy? These are commands some Christians are tempted to believe they simply cannot do. But since they are commands of God, we know two things are true about them. First, God will give us the strength to obey His commands, even though they are difficult. Second, God’s commands are for our good, which means we are greatly blessed when we obey. They are gifts. On top of that, God is glorified and the Gospel is put on display as the beautiful soul-saving message that it is when we obey the Lord’s commands.
The devil wants us to believe that God’s commands are burdensome. That is a lie. Consider what the psalmist said about the commands of God in Psalm 19:10–11, “More to be desired are they than gold, even much fine gold; sweeter also than honey and drippings of the honeycomb. Moreover, by them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward.”
When we see God’s commands as gifts to be treasured rather than burdens to bear, we can truly live in the joy of the Lord.
For His glory,
Bill Bertsche
Executive Pastor
