Is God 's Law Still Relevant?

THE ISSUE:

I don’t need to follow God’s laws—I’m already a good person.” This is what someone recently said to me in a conversation concerning God and His role in modern life Unfortunately, he is not alone in his belief. At times, it seems that our modern spirituality seeks to replace God’s guidance with a more “comfortable” and approachable form of religion.

In other words, the idea of living in accordance with God’s law is, nowadays, considered to be a restrictive burden on our quality of life.

So much so that for most of us, it’s just too daunting to publicly follow God’s rules.

Will people think I’m being extreme? Will they want to hang around with me? These are just a few of the concerns that detract from our comfortable lifestyles.

More often than not, we tell ourselves God’s expectations are too demanding or irrelevant when viewed in today’s context.

Gradually, we become convinced that we are somehow exempt from certain parts of God’s instruction. We reason that a life completely governed by rules and regulations is hardly entertaining at all, not to mention almost impossible to achieve in modern times.

There’s no denying that it’s difficult to represent God’s laws in a world that is evidently turning its back on Christian values. In fact, I am yet to meet a single person who enjoys sticking out like a thorn among the roses.

RESPONSE:

There are dangers associated with thinking that God’s laws don’t apply to our lives.

In most cases, it will only prevent us from ever reaching full spiritual satisfaction with God. Instead, we must continually ask ourselves: am I measuring my actions in accordance with God’s instructions, or the standards of society’s living? As Christians, we should never feel pressured to replace God’s standards with the values and norms of our friends, family and society. To a large extent, our Christian faith is designed to create some form of discomfort among the people of this world.

With that said, we should get out there and promote the faith. In most cases, it is our willingness to continually follow God’s laws that proves to have the most beneficial influence on those around us. No matter how hard the task may be, it is always vital to remember the counsel of Jesus; “If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first” (John 15:18, NIV).

Whether we’re living in the 21st century or the time of Moses, God’s law remains timeless and unbiased. In John 14:15, Jesus says, “If you love me, keep my commandments” (NKJV).

The fulfilment of our mission is simple. If we truly love Jesus, it will reflect most in the decisions we make for Him. What greater time to start than today?

ACT:

> Don’t settle for just being a good person or constantly pleasing others. In particular, know God’s will concerning the weaker areas of your faith.
> Write some of God’s instructions (Bible verses) down on paper and stick them on a wall or computer. This will keep you accountable with His Word. You’ll be amazed at the times when those verses will
pop into your mind.
> Remove yourself from negative influences until you are fully aware of what you stand for.

LINKS:

> www.desiringgod.org
> www.centralpc.org/sermons/2001/s010513e.htm
> www.bibletruths.net/Archives/BTAR175.htm
> www.youth4him.com/articles