Deuteronomy 26:14
“I have not eaten of it while mourning, nor have I removed any of it while I was unclean, nor offered any of it to the dead. I have listened to the voice of the LORD my God; I have done according to all that You have commanded me.”
Last time, the topic of removing areas of sin from our lives was addressed. While we aren’t ever done with them, the first step is to agree to remove it then to do so. With some this is not easy. Those that have addictions will have greater issues. God is patient and will be helpful, if the one allows for new management.
Once we get these larger areas dealt with, there is great freedom. These restrictions act as fences. There are boundaries. However, the freedom in Christ is like a ranch in which there is plenty of room to roam. We avoid the perimeters and delve into the majority of life’s that’s permitted. The Lord wants us to enjoy life. There is so much out there that’s wonderful that’s permitted.
The fact that God set up the system in the negative is freeing. Instead of telling us what’s permitted, He says what’s not allowed. The implication is everything else is ok. This will take time to sink in. Some may have come from harsh, restrictive religious backgrounds. So much freedom will take time to register. As long as the bible doesn’t restrict it and our consciences don’t have a problem, then enjoy.
This great freedom teaches that God created life to enjoy. The only purpose for God creating taste buds is to enjoy food. He wants us to love life. This will also take time to sink in.
Coming back to the topic of obeying God’s commands. Once the stated ones are dealt with, then we have great freedom. We are obeying the rules of the playground, what’s left it to enjoy.
Next time, we’ll address the personal things God impresses on us. Jesus is our lord and He will nudge us in all sorts of directions for the rest of our lives.
Lord, thanks for Your commands. They keep us out of trouble. Help us to walk in them. Thanks that within these bounds is life to enjoy.