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. —Psalm 19:7–11
Funny how our flesh responds to terms like laws and statutes when we read God’s Word. Our minds immediately think of boundaries and limitations, though we ought to think of safety and rewards.
David reminds us that God’s laws are perfect, and therefore nothing negative is contained in them. When we follow them, we are not going to miss out, but we are going to be blessed. Our life experiences are not going to shortchanged, but they’re going to be more fulfilling.
The apostle John reminds us that loving God is expressed through keeping His commandments and that His commandments are not burdensome (1 John 5:3). The rejoicing of the heart, the enlightening of the eyes, the “sweeter than honey” reward of Psalm 19 are the end results of everything from loving your enemies and doing good to those who hate you to not committing fornication and every other command of the Lord in between.
The best and most rewarding way to live is according to God’s commands. His way is perfect and leads to rejoicing. The way of sin does not, even though it may yield a moment of passing pleasure (Heb. 11:25).
Has God been speaking to you about an attitude or an action in your life? Do things His way, even if your flesh is protesting it’s too hard. If your mind is fixated on the perceived boundaries and limitations, refocus on the rejoicing and rewards that await you after your obedience.
Remember, God’s way is not only right, but it’s best all of the time. As a matter of fact, His way is the perfect way to live life. So don’t view His Word and His commands as boundaries or bondage, because the fact is, they grant freedom from slavery to sin. Sounds like the perfect way to approach life, doesn’t it?
Excerpt from “Body Builders” now available on Amazon.
