"And the Lord commanded us to observe all these statutes, to fear the Lord our God, for our good always, that He might preserve us alive, as it is this day." - Deuteronomy 6:24
The Gospel, the message of forgiveness in Jesus, is an expression of God’s love, but the Law of God is an expression of His love, too. God gave us His commandments, not just because He could or just to please Himself; He gave His Law to us for our good.
It’s built in to nature that those who run their lives according to His Word will live and be blessed; those who reject His Word, disobey His commands and ignore His will, will be cursed and destroyed.
"Say to them, As I live, declares the Lord God, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn from his way and live; turn back, turn back from your evil ways, for why will you die, O house of Israel?" - Ezekiel 33:11
Because God is merciful, the individual, family, or nation that turns in repentance and seeks God’s forgiveness will be delivered from His wrath. But the person, family, or nation that hardens its heart and persists in its sin will inevitably fall.
God is good. He is truly good, not just “nice” good. He wants to see good and bring good about for you, for me, and for our country.
Heavenly Father, I want what You want in my life. For Jesus’ sake, forgive my sin, cleanse me of my guilt, and restore me to Your ways, so that I, my family, and my nation can live under Your blessing. Amen.
Pastor Dan Giles