January 2, 2024 Observe them faithfully; for that will be proof of your wisdom and discernment to other peoples, who on hearing of all these laws will say, “Surely, that great nation is a wise and discerning people.” What great nation has laws and rules as perfect as all this teaching that I set before you this day?
Deuteronomy 4:6-9
The world looks at God’s law as only a restrainer. It can become something to avoid at all costs because we want to do our own thing. In truth it sets us free [And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free], and it brings great benefit. God’s word says:
Bless the Lord, O my soul;
And forget not all His benefits.
Psalm 103:2
When Israel was given God’s law it was first intended to bring them into a right relationship with the Living God, but it was also intended to produce a higher plain of living that set them apart from the rest of the world.
As the rest of the world was living in debauchery to the extent that they were infested with venereal diseases, and having their children pass through the fire to worship Molech—Israel would be peculiar. Israel would be a “wise and discerning people.” His laws are not only meant to protect us from the ravages of sin but also to elevate our way of thinking and living.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. Against such there is no law.
Galatians 5:22-23
When we operate in the fruit of the Spirit no law condemns us and therefore there is no sin. His goodness comes instinctively.
But God, who is rich in mercy, because of His great love with which He loved us…[has] raised us up together and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus…
Ephesians 2:4-6
God’s word with the assistance of the Holy Spirit makes it possible for us to live in a realm that is unavailable to the world. We are empowered to manifest all the wonderful attributes of the Lord Jesus. We can be a little touch of heaven on earth to those around us!
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