The Double Blessing of Obedience

Nearly from the moment they attain speech small children begin to think they know better than their parents. You know they do because they will argue with their parents, shouting "NO!". This innate behavior captures some of what it means to have a fallen human nature. None of us likes to be told what to do. We all think we know better than others do and can get along just fine on our own.

But when it comes to God's commands, we'd be wise to take instruction. Scripture tells us that it's actually a blessing that He tells us what to do. Check out one of David's songs about the blessing of God's law.

The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul;The testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple;The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart;The commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes;The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever;The judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether.More to be desired are they than gold,Yea, than much fine gold;Sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.Moreover by them Your servant is warned,And in keeping them there is great reward.

Who can understand his errors?Cleanse me from secret faults.Keep back Your servant also from presumptuous sins;Let them not have dominion over me.Then I shall be blameless,And I shall be innocent of great transgression.(Psalm 19:7-13)

In verse eleven we find out that God's commands are actually a double blessing. First, they serve as a warning, protecting us from the many dangers that await us when we go our own way. Sin always brings pain and difficulty. God's commands are designed to protect us from that pain and difficulty.

Second, walking in the paths of righteousness laid out by God's commands brings reward. That doesn't mean life is always easy when you obey, but it's certainly easier and better in the long run than it would have been if you had not obeyed.

So, do something for yourself today. Obey God!