Be careful, therefore, to do exactly what the LORD your God has commanded you; do not turn right or left! Walk just as he has commanded you so that you may live, that it may go well with you, and that you may live long in the land you are going to possess.
Into the Text
Oftentimes we think that obeying God’s commands will earn our way into heaven. But the truth is that we have all broken God’s commandments, and we are unable to make it right. This is why the hope of Jesus is so powerful. We are saved by grace through faith in the sacrifice of Christ alone.
Having been saved by grace, we don’t try to obey God’s commands to earn salvation or His favor. We obey them because He works in our hearts to love Him and His commandments.
God tells us why He has given us His commands. Deuteronomy 6 states, “Pay attention…and be careful to do this so that it may go well with you” (Deuteronomy 6:3). We hear the command part of this passage, “pay attention” and “be careful.” But did you catch the “why” part? It’s this: “so that it may go well with you.” Walking in God’s ways will protect us from much potential harm and lets us live productive lives.
The vagueness of this promise actually leaves room for God to specifically define “go well” in the individual lives of each and every one of His children. This promise is not a one size fits all promise because God has different plans for each of us. Our good God knows us personally and therefore blesses us individually.
If you are in a place today where your actions are based on seeking the Lord’s favor, know that He already loves you so much. You don’t have to keep striving.
Prayer
Father God, thank you that your plans for me are good and that you know me personally and bless me individually. Help me obey you so that it will go well for me here on earth. Amen.