How can we encourage others to follow God's commands as instructed here? Understanding the Charge “Therefore you shall keep the commandments of the LORD your God, walking in His ways and fearing Him.” (Deuteronomy 8:6) - God links obedience (“keep the commandments”) with two attitudes: - Walking daily in His ways - Fearing (revering) Him - Obedience is not merely rule-keeping; it is a lifestyle shaped by awe of the LORD. - Our task: help others step into that same lifestyle. Live It First - People imitate what they see (1 Corinthians 11:1; Matthew 5:16). - Consistent personal obedience gives credibility to any encouragement we offer. - Prioritize regular time in Scripture (Joshua 1:8). - Let decisions, speech, finances, and relationships reflect God’s standards. Speak About God’s Work Often - Deuteronomy 6:6-7: “These words… are to be upon your heart. And you shall teach them diligently to your children…” - Conversation, not sermons: - Mention answered prayers, moments of conviction, or lessons learned. - Celebrate God’s faithfulness in ordinary settings—meals, drives, break times. - Regular testimony normalizes obedience and stirs hunger in listeners (Psalm 34:8). Teach the Word Intentionally - The Word carries its own persuasive power (Hebrews 4:12). - Practical ideas: - Short, scheduled Bible readings with family members or friends. - Text a verse and a one-sentence takeaway. - Start a weekly study group going verse by verse. - Keep explanation simple, faithful to the text, and always connect to real-life application (James 1:22-25). Model Reverence and Gratitude - Deuteronomy 8 emphasizes remembering God’s provision in the wilderness. - Show gratitude publicly: - Thank Him before meals, at pay-day, after safety in travel. - Acknowledge His hand when successes arrive. - Awe grows when people see tangible links between God’s goodness and daily life (Psalm 103:2). Create Visible Reminders - Israel built memorial stones (Joshua 4:6-7). - Modern equivalents: - Scripture plaques at home or work. - Journals of answered prayer left on the coffee table. - Phone lock-screen verses. - Reminders prompt ongoing conversations about obedience. Walk Together in Community - Hebrews 10:24-25: “And let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds… encouraging one another.” - Practical steps: - Small groups that include accountability questions about applying Scripture. - Mentoring relationships pairing mature believers with newer ones. - Service projects that require teamwork and put commands into action (e.g., caring for widows, James 1:27). Offer Loving Accountability - Galatians 6:1-2 calls us to restore gently those caught in sin. - Elements of healthy accountability: - Permission: invite others to speak into your life first. - Confidentiality: protect trust. - Scripture-centered correction: “What does God’s Word say?” - Prayerful support after confrontation. Celebrate Obedience and Its Blessings - Deuteronomy 8:7-10 ties obedience to entering a “good land.” - When someone obeys, highlight the blessing: - Share testimonies in gatherings. - Send a note acknowledging growth you’ve seen. - Mark milestones (one year of sobriety, consistent tithing, faithful service). - Encouragement multiplies motivation (1 Thessalonians 5:11). Keep the Perspective Eternal - John 14:15: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” - 1 John 5:3: obedience proves love and is “not burdensome.” - Remind others that every act of obedience: - Honors Christ’s sacrifice. - Stores eternal treasure (Matthew 6:20). - Prepares us for “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21). By embodying these patterns—living the truth, speaking it naturally, teaching it clearly, and walking alongside others—we make it easier for them to “keep the commandments of the LORD… walking in His ways and fearing Him.” |
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