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Do you sometimes struggle with the balance between freedom and obedience in your faith journey? The Bible intricately weaves a narrative of tension that challenges our understanding and draws us closer to God. This tension between freedom and adherence to commandments may seem conflicting because we’re all flawed, yet God’s divine principles go beyond what we can grasp here on Earth.
Pause for a moment, breathe deeply, and embrace the tranquility of your connection with God. Release the urge to strive and instead find solace in His presence.
Deuteronomy 30:16 says:
“For I am commanding you today to love the Lord your God, to walk in His ways, and to keep His commands, statutes, and ordinances, so that you may live and multiply, and the Lord your God may bless you in the land you are entering to possess.”
Deuteronomy 30:16
Finding freedom in obedience to God stems from understanding that His commands lead to the highest good. His regulations are not constraints but pathways to a flourishing existence centered on His care and guidance. Take a moment to envision being in the comforting presence of Jesus, aligning your will with His through humble confession and prayer.
Just as road rules ensure safety and enjoyment while driving, God’s commands pave the way to a fulfilling life in Him. By loving Him, following His ways, and observing His commandments, we navigate toward abundance and fulfillment.
While the Old Testament presents numerous commands, Jesus simplifies the essence of obedience to loving God and loving others. This core principle is summarized in Luke 10:26-28, emphasizing wholehearted devotion and compassionate interactions with others.
The burden of adhering to 613 laws in ancient times is similar to the meticulousness of some minute road rules, highlighting the weight of religious obligations. But Jesus offers a different path. He invites us to find rest in Him, freeing us from the heavy burden of the law and giving us grace and ease in following His teachings.
Sovereign God, You are the true King, the best King, the King of kings. Your ways are higher than my ways and Your thoughts are higher than my thoughts. I surrender my life to You today, dear God. Give me the wisdom to see the goodness in Your commands, and the discipline to follow them. Do not let me get tired of doing good and working for Your kingdom. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Listen to the 2-minute version of this Abide meditation, “Do the Right Thing” from Deuteronomy 30:16. To listen to the full, 15-minute version, which will help you spend more time in meditation about obedience and understanding God’s blessings in that, download the Abide app and start a premium subscription. Use this link for 25% off.
