Holiness, Righteousness, Faithfulness

Deuteronomy 28 is what most would call "black and white". In other words, there are consequences for obeying God's Law and consequences for disobeying the same Law. Obedience leads to blessings. Disobedience results in curses and destruction.

The original readers were reminded of God's grace and mercy. Years prior, they were led from slavery in Egypt - a horrific way of life - to freedom and on their way to the land God had promised. Things would work out well if they valued their freedom and chose to honor the One who provides that same freedom. Again, it appears their future would be a result based on their decisions.

Since God sent His Son to die for the sins of the world (2 Cor 5:21, 1 Jn 2:2), we have lived under grace rather than Law (cf. Paul's admonitions to the Galatians among other texts). Although I want to make decisions that result in the blessings mentioned in Deut. 28, my flesh continues to drag me "south". And the Bible makes it clear this is going to be an issue until Christ returns and restores all things.

About this time, Romans 7 might have come to mind. There's a great post from a friend here. Kinney Mabry has a good post on the Law here.

Although we no longer live under the Law, the New Testament is clear New Testament Christians continue to have responsibilities. Consider Jesus declaring, "Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets; I have come not to abolish but to fulfill" (Matt. 5:17 NRSV) or Peter reminding readers "For it is written, 'You shall be holy, for I am holy" (1 Pet. 1:16 NRSV).

My decision today is to live for Christ. I know based on previous experience, I'm going to sin. I'm going to be selfish. I'm going to "miss the mark". But I'm not going to rationalize those things. I refuse to push them aside and just claim "That's just the way I am." I'll call them what they are - SIN. Then I'll go to Christ and repent, knowing "...he who is faithful and just will forgive us our sins and cleanse us from all unrighteousness" (1 Jn 1:9).

Anything you want to say?