The commandments of God that Moses received on Mount Sinai have inspired and pricked our hearts since the beginning. So why did God give us the Ten Commandments? Was it just because he felt like it? Or because he just wanted to be the boss, and say it’s my way or the highway?
Although this is not true, make no mistake that if God wanted to be a dictator, He would be totally righteous in doing so, as He created all things, seen and unseen.
The 10 commandments of God were given to show us how sinful we are. God loves us and He knows what makes us happy. He knows how relationships work. He gave us the 10 commandments so that we could be happy and have fellowship with Him and others around us. There is so much hatred, anger, and bitterness in today’s world as we have failed to live up to the commandments of God.
When we look at the commandments, let us not think of them as rules, that take away our freedom, but let us look at them as wisdom and knowledge, in order to live a happy and peaceful life. Let’s take a look at them.
The 10 commandments of God
1- I am the LORD your God. You shall worship the Lord your God and Him only shall you serve.
Why would you worship and serve someone or something in your life that has no meaning and value? It is God who created all of us. He only is worthy of all praise, thanksgiving, worship and obedience. It is not beneficial for us to serve anyone but God, who is the source of all blessing and wisdom.
2- You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain.
Would you like it, if someone takes your name in vain? I guess not. So why would it be right to take the Lords Holy name in vain?
3- Remember to keep holy the sabbath day.
God delights to have a personal relationship with us. All He is asking for is a day with him, where you and God can have a personal conversation. Here’s your chance to tell God about your life and all that’s happening. Remember; God is not angry with you or counting your sins. Jesus paid the price for our sins. So take time once a week and spend time with your Father in heaven.
4- Honour your father and mother.
Our parents have taken care of us and helped us become who we are today. It is only right for us to honour them and take care of them when they need us. No matter what they have done to us, let us as Gods children choose to forgive and help them in their old age. God will bless you for this.
5- You shall not kill.
Would you like to spend the rest of your life in jail, or live with guilt all your life? Then don’t kill. Also, don’t kill with your words. They hurt people; instead, speak in love and bless with your words.
6- You shall not commit adultery.
Adultery will destroy your marriage and your relationship with your wife/husband and children. If you want a happy marriage and awesome relationships with your wife/husband and children, stay away from adultery.
7- You shall not steal.
How would you feel if someone stole from you? You know the feeling. So don’t steal from others. Be happy with what you have. Many don’t even have what you have.
8- You shall not bear false witness against your neighbour.
How would you feel if you did not do any wrong, but someone lied and said you did? Others feel the same when you lie. So speak the truth at all times.
9- You shall not covet your neighbour’s wife.
If you are married, would you be ok with another man lusting after your wife? Instead, love your wife and fulfil all your desires with her only.
10- You shall not covet your neighbour’s goods.
You will only have stress in your life if you want all that your friends or neighbours have. Instead be grateful and thankful for what you have.
The Ten Commandments reveal the character and nature of God. Jesus summarised the commandments of God in one single sentence. Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind and Love your neighbour as yourself.
Your neighbour includes everyone and anyone. Jesus also said “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you” As Christians, we are called to establish the law. We know that following the law does not gain us salvation.
The only way to be saved is through Jesus Christ, who is LORD and saviour of the world. But God has given us the law, as He cares about our well-being and happiness. God wants to transform us into His own image. So next time you look at the commandments of God, view them as the best choice you make for your life. A choice that will keep you happy and at peace.
The Ten Commandments are found in Deuteronomy 5 and Exodus 20.
God bless,
Mind On Jesus